Frequently Asked Questions

I recognize Slope School is different than my current school. How do I know if it's the right fit for us?

Each family is unique, though there are some similarities we've seen between the families who are happiest and most successful in this model. Check out the list here.

We encourage families to be intentional about their decision to apply to Slope School! Please read our site and other materials, watch books, and participate in a couple events.

What grades do you offer?

Slope School enrolls young people ages 5 (kindergarten) through 13 (8th grade). We also have a small half-day pre-K Montessori program for 3 and 4 year olds

What is your calendar and daily schedule?

Slope School begins at 8:40 am each day (drop-off starting at 8:15 am) and finishes at 3:15 pm.

We operate on an 10-month calendar, but our flexible program allows families to travel together during the year, without sacrificing any learning.

The school calendar is based on a series of 6-week project sprints called "Quests", each with a theme – like Rockets, Robots, Medical Biology, or Detective Chemistry. Each Quest is a grand adventure, culminating in a high-stakes public Exhibition for family and friends.

Six 6-week sessions, followed by 1 to 2 weeks off to refuel and for holidays, make up the school year.

What do you mean by “a hero’s journey”?

We believe that each of us has a special calling in life, and a series of trials and tests that must be faced with integrity and purpose in order to live a satisfying and fulfilled life. Our mission is to prepare your child for his or her special journey.

Will children be grouped together by grades?

We believe that children learn best when working with children younger and older than themselves rather than split up into groups based solely on age. In addition to individualized curriculum, all ages of students work together in groups.

What kind of learner thrives at Slope School?

Kids who love to learn, are curious, self-motivated, and respectful. Our environment is an accelerator for the independent learner who can tackle challenging questions, follow instructions, and solve problems.

Do you offer scholarships?

We budget for as many scholarships as possible. Our current scholarship positions are filled for the 2024-2025 school year.

What resources do you have for kids with special learning needs?

We take our commitment seriously when we promise to deliver a transformative education experience for young people at Slope School. Since we are a small school, we make sure that we have the resources necessary to keep this promise for each family that joins us. Currently we have had success with young people who experience ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, and some minor forms of autism. We are not currently equipped to serve young people with other specific learning needs.

Is Slope School a Montessori school?

We respect and incorporate Maria Montessori’s philosophy but, we are not a Montessori school. We also use the latest interactive technologies, hands on projects and the Socratic Method for discussions.

What do you mean by "every child can change the world"?

We believe each of our students will find a passion — something they love and have a gift to do. They will use this gift to serve others and fulfill a need they are passionate about in the world. This may be by becoming a shoe-shiner who tells stories and makes people's day just by doing his job with love and vigor; it may be by becoming a coach who sees the light in a child’s eyes and guides her to pursue a dream; it may be by becoming a father or mother who leads a family on a Hero's Journey; it may be becoming an entrepreneur or business leader guided by compassion and integrity; or it may be by becoming an artist or writer who brings beauty to people's lives.

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