General FAQs
What is a charter school?
A charter school is a public school that is organized around a certain educational methodology, theme, curriculum, or core mission. Mill Falls offers a robust Montessori model.
Who can go to Mill Falls Charter School?
Mill Falls is open to any NH student in grades being offered. In 2012/13 we offer a K-3 program; in 2013/14 we will offer grades K-4.
Does Mill Falls have tuition?
No, Mill Falls is a charter school and like other public schools, does not and can not charge tuition.
Where is the school located?
The school is located at 100 William Loeb Drive in Manchester, NH.
How many students are there?
In 2012/13, our first year, we have 93 students, Kindergarten through 3rd grade. We will grow each year until we reach our full elementary program, grades Kindergarten through 6th grade.
What is a Montessori work cycle?
During the Montessori work cycle, which are generally 3-hours long, the teacher moves throughout the classroom as students choose independent work and become deeply engaged with the task(s) at hand. Teachers provide lessons in all content areas working with students individually and in groups.
What does the Kindergarten program look like?
The MFCS kindergarten offering is a dynamic kinder program. Students are at school for 3.5 hours, Monday through Friday. Their schedule includes a traditional Montessori work cycle, as well as time for unstructured play, which is held outside, as often as weather permits. Snack and other classroom-community building opportunities are also be incorporated into the daily routine, thus allowing for the development of social and emotional growth along side the children’s academic achievement. The state of NH does not currently fund full-day kindergarten at NH charter schools and we are not permitted to charge tuition for an extended teaching day.
How many classrooms are there in 2012 (the opening year), and how will Mill Falls grow?
In September 2012, Mill Falls opened its doors with one kindergarten class, and 3 lower elementary classrooms, mixed age classrooms populated by students grades 1-3. As our students age, the school will grow progressively, expanding to include upper elementary classrooms as well.
Does Mill Falls hold a lottery for admission?
Yes. By NH charter law, if the number of applicants exceeds capacity, a public lottery will be held, with a wait list developed from the lottery overflow. The 2013 Lottery was held on March 18th, 2013. Please visit here for details. In 2012 lottery, held on March 15th, 2012, we had 269 applicants for our 93 slots. In the 2013 Lottery, 166 families enrolled their children.
How do I enroll my child at Mill Falls Charter School?
Please click here for details and an application.
Does Mill Falls adhere to the Manchester School District Calendar?
Mill Falls basically follows the Manchester School District school calendar, with a few small changes based on the needs and programming of our school.
Is there be aftercare?
For information on our 2012 aftercare partner, please click here. We will assess the aftercare partnership later this year to determine our plan for 2013/14.
What is the typical class size?
A Montessori class is typically between 25-35 children. In 2012, Mill Falls has 24 students per lower elementary multi-age classroom, and 21 kinder students. Each classroom is staffed by one Lead Teacher and one Assistant Teacher.
Are Mill Falls’ teachers certified?
At least half of our Lead Teachers must be NH certified as required by NH charter law. All of our Lead Teachers are trained and experienced Montessori educators. Our Assistant Teachers, who focus on assisting students and teachers in the classroom setting, support the mission and goals of Mill Falls, and may pursue and/or hold Montessori and/or state certification.
Does Mill Falls serve students with special needs?
Mill Falls seeks to provide an educational environment where children of all abilities can progress toward independence, self-motivation and self-confidence as they strive to become well-rounded learners. Mill Falls is located in an accessible facility and will work closely with families and their sending districts to ensure that the special needs of individual children can be met within our programming, structure and approach.
How will a child with limited English language skills do at Mill Falls?
Given the hands on materials that populate the Montessori classroom, children with limited English skills at their time of enrollment at Mill Falls will feel, and be, successful while they are improving their English language skills. Additional ESL expertise will be arranged as needed to further assist these students.
Are Montessori students proven to be successful later in life?
Research studies show that Montessori children are well prepared for later life academically, socially, and emotionally. In addition to scoring well on standardized tests, Montessori children are ranked above average on such criteria as following directions, turning in work on time, listening attentively, using basic skills, showing responsibility, asking provocative questions, showing enthusiasm for learning and adapting to new situations. Click here for some information on research studies.
Are there any notable people who are Montessori educated?
Peter Drucker, Management Guru
Larry Page, Co-Founder of Google
Sergey Brin, Co-Founder of Google
Jeffrey Bezos, Founder of Amazon.com
Katharine Graham, Owner/Editor of the Washington Post
Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, Editor, Former First Lady
Sean ‘P.Diddy’ (formerly known as Puff Daddy) Combs, RAP artist
Anne Frank, Author of The Diary of Anne Frank
Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Nobel Prize winner for Literature
Prince William and Prince Harry, English royal family
T. Berry Brazelton, Pediatrician and Author
Julia Child, Chef, Star of many TV Cooking Shows, and Author
Friedensreich Hundertwasser, Austrian painter and Architect
