How does Treasure Village Montessori differ from other public schools?

Treasure Village Montessori caters to the uniqueness of each individual child and their learning ability.  In addition reading, writing, math and science, Treasure Village also focuses on communication, social and emotional development with the ultimate goal of producing well-rounded individuals.  The hands-on environment found at the school enables the students to experience learning, a component unique to the Montessori philosophy.

What is a charter school?

Charter Schools are independent public schools. As an independent school, we are free to choose the method of teaching, and at Treasure Village, we choose the Montessori method. In addition to the method, a charter school is a public school so the program is free to its students.

Where do you get your funding?

Charter Schools receive funding like traditional public schools, through tax dollars. Monetary amounts are based on per pupil in attendance, just like traditional school funding. Other funds are secured through fundraising endeavors.

What are my costs for my child to attend the school?

There are nominal costs throughout the school year which are found in all schools and include a supply fee of approximately $40.00, daily lunch costs up to $5.00, after care fees ranging in $8.00 occasional care, $75.00-$175.00 per month depending on the program, $10.00 a month field trips fees per class excluding the out-of-state fees charged for 3rd through 6th grade field trips which vary from $100 - $400.00, school T-shirts and other school paraphernalia starting at $10.00 and up.

 

Why do you need to raise funds for the school?

 

Charter schools pay for facilities costs that traditional public schools do not. So while receiving the same amounts in tax dollars, charter schools have the extra added burden of paying rental or leasing fees.

 

Class size is mandated by the State Board of Education and are 1:18 for K-3 classes, 1:22 for 4-6 grade classes and 1:25 for 7 and 8th grade classes.

 

How can children of different ages and abilities learn in the same classroom?

Children learn, naturally, at different rates regardless of age or ability. At Treasure Village, we recognize the need for individualized learning schedules to meet the needs of the different abilities found within a classroom, while meeting the minimum academic requirements set at each grade level.  As a result, many children not only meet the minimum requirements, but are allowed and able to surpass these standards and cover much more information at other grade levels.

How do children learn in such a free and open environment?

Although the environment may look free and open, really the demands of a Montessori classroom require much structure, time management and responsibility on the part of the teacher and student. Teachers provide class lists of daily tasks to be completed, along with individual lists depending on student need. Students learn to manage their time to complete the required tasks and teachers provide the structure with in the classroom for this to take place. Choices only come into play when students master their time management abilities are able to move through their work with 90% completion on a daily basis.

What type of child is most likely to benefit from attending?

Children who are assertive learners, strong and independent really reap the benefits of a Montessori environment. Children needing some flexibility in a learning environment also benefit from this type of environment. Parents who need homework, tests and gravitate towards traditional environments will probably not understand or appreciate the Montessori environment and there fore this program will not be conducive for their children to attend.

What services do you offer children who need academic remediation?

The school is required to provide remediation to students who possess an Individual Education Plan. Testing services related to remediation, as per county requirements, are also available with teacher recommendation. 

What are my responsibilities as a parent?

Your responsibilities as a parent will be to support the academic, social and emotional aspects of your child’s school career by staying in touch with your child’s teacher, working with your child at home, for whatever time is necessary to reinforce concepts  and to provide for the physical aspects of development including proper nutrition, hygiene and sleep. The school also adheres to a strict attendance policy that must be followed and supported by the parents who are responsible for their child’s attendance. Upon enrollment, refer to the Parent Handbook for more information.  The school is most effective when the students basic needs are being met by the family.