Q:  Why do people choose the Community School?

A:  There are as many answers to that question as there are students.  The following is a statement by a parent of both an alumni and a current student:

"As a Community School parent I have made a choice for my children's education.  I value the character development and community building, above all else.  While some parents may be more interested in which college their child might attend, it is more important for me that my children grow into quality human beings, first.   Thoughtful individuals who treat each other, their friends, community, their world and environment with respect and understanding.  If they can do all that, they can certainly manage the daily challenges of academia, the work place and beyond."

The following list of reasons for choosing MVCS was generated by parents whos students attend this school:

• Small class size allowing for personal attention
• More in-depth education of subject matter
• A culture of respect between kids and kids/adults
• Students are taught as individuals with particular attention paid to their personal learning styles
• Acceptance of mistakes
• Quality of work is stressed over the quantity of work
• Emphasis on the arts and music
• Personal growth and development, character traits and life skills curriculum
• Multi-age friendships and natural mentoring opportunities abound
• Emphasis on positive character traits and self esteem
• Transparancy of the school
• Diverse educators and great teaching staff
• Art, violin, outdoor ed. and science
• Students encouraged to learn at their own pace
• Integrated curriculum
• A connectedness to the community

Q:  Does MVCS offer financial assistance?

A:  Yes.  Over 75% of our student body benefits from our scholarship fund.  Annual tuition is $5040 per student.  MVCS asks that families make every attempt to pay at least 35% of that amount while the school will assist those in need of making the balance.

Sibling discount - MVCS offers a generous 30% discount for families enrolling more than one child.

Q:  Can my student ride the public school bus to MVCS?

A:  Yes, if your child lives on a regular school bus route Methow Valley School District busses will pick them up and deliver them to MVCS in Twisp.  The ride is a short 6 minutes beyond the Liberty Bell High School.   Our afternoon release time does not accomodate students riding the bus home after school.  We encourage families to carpool and rideshare whenever possible.  The MV School District assesses a fee of $1 per ride. 

Q:  I have a child in the public school and wish to enroll another at MVCS.  How do the school calendars compare?

A:  MVCS makes every effort to coordinate its yearly calendar with the public, Montessori and Waldorf schools of the valley.

Q:  Can my child participate in public school or after school sports and programs while attending MVCS?

A:  YES.  Children within the Methow Valley School District, whether home-schooled or enrolled in a private/public school, are permitted (& encouraged) to participate in extra curricular activities (i.e. sports, plays, musical events) .

Q:  Why does MVCS have a 1/2 day of classes each Wednesday?

A:  Wednesday afternoons are a valuable time for staff to work together to coordinate the many extraordinary activities and curricular challenges MVCS presents its students.  Because the school offers a multi-age classroom setting with fully integrated curriculum, planning is of the essence to insure the best quality education.

Q:  What is the class size at MVCS?

A:  MVCS has two classrooms hosting grades 1-3 and 4-6.  A maximum of 14 students are in each room.  Core teachers are supported by volunteer parents and community members to further improve the adult:student ratio.

Q:  Will the campus always be in Twisp?

A:  The Methow Community Center in Twisp provides a wonderful location for MVCS.  Large, light-filled classrooms, a gymnasium and stage, public library, community garden and park. Interfacing with the community is a wonderful experience for the children of MVCS and the Community Center provides this opportunity daily.