Admissions — CVMS

JOIN OUR MONTESSORI COMMUNITY

CVMS strives to involve not just individual students, but whole families in our educational community. Our admissions process is designed to inform parents about our learning approach and consider all relevant factors for their child's success at our school.

Our commitment to diversity greatly enriches our CVMS community. We wholeheartedly welcome students from all economic, social, racial, ethnic, religious, and familial backgrounds. This commitment informs not only our admissions and financial aid practices but also our educational programming.

We welcome any questions and encourage prospective families to visit our school during classroom hours to observe our program and activities firsthand.

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WHAT OUR ADMISSIONS PROCESS LOOKS LIKE

Families are encouraged to get in touch with our Admissions Director to schedule a visit to CVMS, either online or in-person. The School Visit is specifically tailored for parents and guardians and is scheduled during weekday mornings. During this visit, families have the chance to view our facilities in person and observe a twenty-minute classroom session.
To initiate the admissions process, parents are required to submit an Application for Admission along with a non-refundable application fee of $25.00 for toddlers and $75.00 for Early Childhood and elementary aged students.
To assist us in understanding how to best support each individual student, parents are also asked to provide copies (where applicable) of the following: early intervention services information, such as physical, speech, or occupational therapy records, the most recent school report, recent sample work, relevant school district or private testing, and/or IEP files.
Once we've received a complete application and families have attended the School Visit, the next step is the Student Visit. For our younger students, this visit offers them the opportunity to meet their potential teacher. Meanwhile, older students will spend time in the classroom where they will be assessed by our staff. If deemed necessary, CVMS may also request permission to contact the child's current school. Please rest assured that all provided information will remain completely confidential.
• Our admission process prioritizes finding the best fit for both the student and our school community.
• Availability of enrollment is determined by the Head of School, and parents are notified accordingly.
• If enrollment is offered, parents are required to submit a non-refundable 10% deposit of the total tuition, along with a one-time facility fee.
• We provide transparent communication to parents regarding additional admission, tuition, and fee requirements.
• To ensure the best possible learning environment, new students are accepted on a six-week trial basis, allowing for adjustment and evaluation by the parents, teacher, and Head of School.

A child's hand using a wooden circular shape to trace on a light-colored piece of wood.

INTERESTED IN OUR

ADMISISONS
POLICY

READ IT HERE

FACTORS TO CONSIDER

Here are some variables to consider and some relevant information about what CVMS offers – and does not offer.

PERSONALITY + LEARNING STYLE

CVMS Montessori curriculum combines teacher-led instruction, individual study, and group work. Students are given weekly objectives and guided to be independent learners. CVMS classrooms are productive with a focus on the 7 C's which includes curiosity, command of concepts, critical thinking, cooperation, compassion, citizenship, and confidence.

INTERESTS + SPECIAL NEEDS

CVMS meets or exceeds NY State standards, teaches Spanish, and offers small class sizes. Students can develop creativity and pursue interests. Learning styles are accommodated, but profound learning differences aren't addressed as there are no specialists. Communication with the head of school and teacher is advised for unique needs.

COMMUNICATION

The Montessori system values a partnership between parents and teachers towards a child's education. Parents are encouraged to observe classroom activities, share relevant information, and receive weekly updates. The school provides written assessments and conducts parent-teacher conferences twice a year, with different formats for Early Childhood and elementary levels.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

At Montessori, we believe in fostering a community that works together collaboratively. To ensure active community involvement and to enhance the curriculum beyond our budget and knowledge, we require each set of parents to volunteer for 35 hours per year towards the school's operation, growth, and development. There are various opportunities available, such as classroom presentations, fundraising events, and contributing other skills and time. Refer to our Parent Handbook for further details.

SAFETY, DISCIPLINE + WELL-BEING

At CVMS, we prioritize a learning culture that respects oneself, others, and the environment, embracing individual differences. We consistently teach and practice kindness and courtesy to promote student safety and well-being. Our discipline approach prioritizes self-discipline teaching and clear consistent expectations. Although sometimes inappropriate behavior needs addressing, our focus is on developing self-control, per Montessori philosophy. For our discipline policy, see the Parent Handbook.

BEFORE & AFTER CARE + BUS TRANSPORTATION

CVMS offers CVMS+, an additional before and after-school care and enrichment program for our students at an extra cost. Additionally, we provide bus transportation to enrolled children from Early Childhood extended day through upper elementary levels in the Corning, Elmira, Elmira Heights, and Horseheads school districts. You may arrange for this by contacting the transportation department of your respective school district.