Monocacy Valley Montessori School

We were overall pleased with our first year at this school--our child was happy and made great progress. I think it's a good teaching method that accommodates her restlessness. One thing I especially liked was the large number of field trips--this made school extra fun and interesting. I also appreciate the Spanish instruction and wish there could be even more of that. Good emphasis on theater and music. This school has a high level of parent involvement, and there are lots of fun events throughout the year (plays, picnics, swaps, etc.) I thought the principal was good--seemed hardworking, not "goofing off" as one parent said--I didn't encounter any problems. One downside was some rude infighting among parents over the music program that spilled onto the school's list serve--very inappropriate. I think charter schools have a tendency to attract people who aren't happy with the school system for various reasons--and some of these folks will be unhappy no matter where they are. Building has its charms, but the biggest downside is no gymnasium.
—Submitted by a parent

Well, the school has a terrible principal, and she did these TERRIBLE things: Didn't provide a student the strings program, and she also tore apart a good terrific strings program. Plus, there's been no AP (assistant principal) since the old one there left. The principal and another teacher don't care about their jobs, so they just goof off to get their paycheck.
—Submitted by a parent

We just finished our first year at MVMPCS and love it! My son was in Kindergarten and learned so much - not just learned it but actually understands what he learned! Small community feel to the school and a lot of opportunity to volunteer in the classroom.
—Submitted by a parent

We have attended this school for several years. Since Mrs. Bowan left, the school has gone down hill. It used to a school governed by the parents, the teachers the board and the principal. Now, it has morphed into a school that has the same problems most public schools have and then some. The current principal does not support the parents if there is a problem in the class room. This school may be better than some of the local schools but it is no longer the gem of Frederick County Public Schools. It is very sad to see something that was once so special turn into something that is only better than the worst performers in the county. We will not be returning next year.
—Submitted by a parent

Great school, my kids love going. From everything I have seen on visits to the classes and what my children say the staff is great. The school has a real community to it and the parents are heavily involved in the school
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter & her husband were 2 of the original founders of this school. I know how hard it was to establish this school, but the people were so committed and excited. I remember the tears shed on the first opening day--how proud and excited everyone was. Two of my grandkids still attend this school, the oldest is now in high school. The kids love this school and have thrived in its environment. All three have taken the violin lessons and my granddaughter has performed in 2 plays. The parent involvement is fabulous and contributes to the success of the school. Currently, it is housed in an old church--not the average school building by any means--but i think it adds to the charm of the school. It has had it ups and downs throughout the years, but I feel it deserves a lot of praise for the courage and stamina of all those who dedicate themselves to this school. I am so grateful that my precious grandkids have had this opportunity.

Our family loves this school! My middle-school child really likes her teachers, and works hard to meet their expectations. She loves the small class because the peer pressure is low, school support for unique talents is high. Our 5th-grader is struggles with reading, but gets the special help he needs without being called out as a slow student, or placed in the snail reading group. The teachers are so dedicated, but also fun, cheerful, and seem to really enjoy their work and the accomplishments of the students. I couldn't be more pleased with this school and wish every child had the opportunity to excel at his/her own rate, meet his/her own potential as my children do.
—Submitted by a parent

We love MVMPCS because of its uniqueness. Our children are able to experience a Montessori education at a public school where parents have more involvement in the running of the school. The Montessori pedagogy coupled with unique programs (such as the Suzuki Strings program where students start playing as early as the first grade), and an excellent staff have fostered a love learning in our children.
—Submitted by a parent

We love Monocacy Valley Montessori Public Charter school because it is a school run by parents and teachers together! It has a Montessori pedagogy that has helped my kids excel academically and in life and it has an amazing Suzuki Strings program that let's kids start playing instrumental music in 1st grade instead of 4th like the local traditional public schools!
—Submitted by a parent

MVMPCS is a great school because it has a Montessori teaching method, has multi-age classrooms and you get to be with your teacher for 3 years. It has fabulous teachers who care so much about the kids. The parents are very involved in the running of the school along side the administration. It is a wonderful community to be part of.
—Submitted by a parent

This is my son's first year of Montessori and first year at MVMPCS. Although I am basically happy with the school's philosophy, it has taken my son time to adjust to the new learning/teaching style. The principal listens to the parents, acts proactively and holds teachers accountable for following through with parental concerns and student needs. Some of the teachers expect more learning independence from the students, while others are a little more structured, so if you're thinking about sending your child to this school, make sure he/she gets a teacher who matches his/her style of learning.
—Submitted by a parent

We are so happy that our son has been accepted to the charter school, our son has learned a great deal from the montessori approach we are so grateful. All the teachers here are wonderful they care and beleive in the school they teach at.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is improving every year. It already had unique offerings like Orton-Gillingham, Suzuki strings and a good drama program. Now it has a competant principal, which was a problem in the past. I look forward to my kids progressing through this school. Great volunteer efforts as well.
—Submitted by a parent

Wonderful school with the new Principle we are all hoping to see her more involved. Teachers are wonderful and classrooms are filled with Montessori learning areas. The school offers Orton-Gillingham, Susuki method for strings, drama club. Parent involved is enormous at MVMPCS.
—Submitted by a parent

Despite facility, great teachers, great learning environment! There should be more schools that focus on the needs of students. Small class size and teacher w/aide. Thanks!
—Submitted by a parent

A University of Virginia based evaluation team visited MVMPCS last year and provided a full evaluation of this school. Their findings included inconsistency across same grade classrooms in emphasis on subject areas (one teacher may emphasize art, while another teacher would emphasize social studies). Math skills as exemplified by student performance on standardized state exams is very low at this school. The principle at this school has a strong laissez faire leadership style which has been detrimental in terms of guiding teachers and addressing problems. Weaknesses pointed out in the Virginia study were largely unaddressed by the principle and initially she attempted to sweep under the rug. The parent support and involvement is positive and enormous. Lack of a strong leader at this innovative charter school has unfortunately prevented this school from reaching its potential as an outstanding charter school.
—Submitted by a parent

My son has been at MVMS for two yrs. MVMS is a school where the children come first. Children are taught 'freedom with responsibility'. The teachers are highly skilled and work hard to bring out the best in each child. The teacher's clearly care about each and every student. Multi grades share each class. The older kids help the younger kids. The principal is a wonderful woman and acknowledges each child by name. We strive for 100% parental involvement, and very nearly succeed. The community goes beyond the walls of the school building. Thank you MVMS for giving my child and the others the encouragement and confidence they need to go out into the world! I am looking forward to being with MVMS the next 5 years of my son's school career.
—Submitted by a parent