Frequently Asked Questions
How does the school meet a child's educational needs?
Our attractive and well-ordered classrooms offer developmental aids matched to each child's physical and mental needs. Low shelves and accessible materials encourage independent choice. During the independent work time children move from activity to activity at small movable tables or on the floor.
Teachers serve as enthusiastic guides, observing children's activities, monitoring their progress and directing efforts towards meaningful results.
- Individualized lessons allow children to follow their own interests at their own speed.
- Activities in every area are sequenced, so each child is challenged at an appropriate level.
- Most materials contain built-in cues to help children work with success.
- Step-by-step mastery of a task promotes independence and enhances creative experimentation.
How do you handle discipline?
Staff quiety and calmly redirects the child to purposeful work. Teachers and older students model proper behavior. Rules are consistently and simply stated. Children are taught to respect and care for themselves, others and their environments.
May children enter CVMS when they are older?
Absolutely. The younger they start, the more benefit. Still, we consider applicants of all ages, based on available space. If we have an opening, the applicant visits a class to make sure she or he will make a successful transition. We want to be confident that we will be able to meet the student's needs. Our staff works with new students to help them become assimilated and gain proficiency with the Montessori materials and concepts.
Do you accept children with disabilities?
Since we do not receive local, state or federal aid, we do not have staff or facilities to meet the needs of children with serious challenges. However, we consider each applicant on a case-by-case basis.
What if my child attended a Montessori school elsewhere?
We do our best to accommodate Montessorians.
What about testing?
CVMS chooses to administer state-mandated 4th and 8th grade examinations in math, science, language arts, Stanford Achievement Tests, and a number of Regents Examinations . We do not teach to tests, but the solid curriculum enables our students to perform very well on standardized tests in high school and beyond. They consistently exceed state standards and outperform area public and parochial school students.
How do students do after Montessori?
Informal and written surveys over the years indicate that CVMS graduates make an excellent academic and social transition to larger, traditional schools. Teachers and administrators comment very favorably on our students and consider them a great asset to their communities. They note superior academic preparation; an enthusiasm for learning; the ability to organize schoolwork; leadership skills; as well as kindness to others.
Our graduates find these skills valuable for college admission and later in their careers.
Are there opportunities for parent involvement?
Yes. Parents are encouraged to be active in the school through fund development, in-class projects, committee work, and participation in the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO).
Are there parent-teacher conferences?
These are held twice each school year. Parents also observe their children in the classroom setting.
Do you have before and after-school programs?
We provide a curriculum-connected program for enrolled preschool, kindergarten and elementary students on days when school is in session. Called Kaleidoscope, it provides a variety of supervised activities including art, music, drama, dance, games and opportunities for socialization through indoor and outdoor play. Older students have separate spaces and age-appropriate activities.
What about summertime?
We currently offer four weeks of camp for children age three and up, which is run by our staff . CVMS students receive priority, but it is open to the public if space is available. Hours are 9 to 3, with an hour of child care offered before and afterward for an additional fee.
How is the school administered?
Chemung Valley Montessori School is an independent,not-for-profit corporation. The Board of Trustees sets policy and the Head of School directs daily operations.
Do you have tuition assistance?
Some need-based aid is available each year for those who apply. We regret that aid is not available for the Toddler Program.
Is transportation available?
By parent request, bus transportation is available through the local school districts, including Horseheads, Elmira, Elmira Heights and Corning. Children usually must be in Kindergarten, but district policy varies.
How do I enroll my child?
- Call Admissions at (607) 562-8754, extension 110 for information, to set up a time to observe a class, or to request an application form.
- Submit an application form with fee.
- If offered, schedule an interview for your child with a teacher.
- Await enrollment offer form and and apply for tuition assistance, if applicable.
