Frequently Asked Questions

1. How big is Full Circle School?

Our learning community is made up of 25 - 30 students ages 5 - 12 years old. This small size supports close friendships between children as well as lots of individualized attention from teachers. We have two core teacher-directors as well as part-time teachers who specialize in reading/writing, math, science, and kindergarten. We also have visiting teachers who share exciting art and music programs with us and add to the richness of our curriculum.

2. Are you a Waldorf or Montessori school?

We are neither Waldorf nor Montessori, however, we do share a number of common values with these pedagogies. Full Circle was founded by Michael and Rebecca Muir-Harmony in 1973 as an educational experiment. It was such a success that their methods are still practiced to this day. Michael and Rebecca believed in fostering a true love of learning in children. Elements of their philosophy include: student interest-led learning, fostering a growth mindset and sense of wonder, discovery based learning, peer leadership and mentorship, and the freedom to play outdoors every day. Please see our Philosophy page to learn more.

3. How do your students do academically after Full Circle?

Our graduates continue on to top-notch middle schools, high schools, and colleges. Their time at Full Circle provides students with a solid foundation in academic content as well as the confidence that they are skilled learners and valuable community members. They are ready and prepared for their next adventure in education.

4. What is the school schedule?

Our school year runs from the first week of September to the first week in June. We have two weeks of Winter Break at the New Year and another two weeks of Spring Break in March. The regular weekly schedule is Monday - Thursday, 8:45 am - 3:45 pm. In addition to this we also offer special events on most First Fridays of the month.

5. What are First Fridays?

First Fridays are special events or field trips that take place on the First Friday of the month. Examples are the family Mt. Monadnock hike and the History Fair kick-off. Children look forward to First Fridays with great anticipation and excitement.

6. What if my family needs regular childcare on Fridays?

This year we are pleased to offer an additional Friday Program which provides consistent, high quality child care on Fridays. If you would like more information about this, please contact us for details.

7. Do you have early care and/or after care available?

Yes. Families may arrange for early care from 8:15 - 8:45 am and/or after care from 3:45 - 5 pm. 

8. Do you offer half-day or full-day kindergarten?

Every child and every family has different needs. For this reason we are happy to offer both half-day and full-day kindergarten. Half-day families are welcome to expand to full-days as the year progresses if they so choose. You may also arrange for a combination of half-days and full-days. We want kindergarten to be the right fit for your whole family.

9. What is the tuition for Kindergarten?

For the 2019 - 2020 school year, half-day kindergarten has an Enrollment Fee of $300 and the Tuition of $5150. Semi-annual as well as monthly payment plans are available. Please see our Admissions page for more details.

10. What is the tuition for Elementary school?

For the 2019 - 2020 school year, Elementary has an Enrollment Fee of $600 and the Tuition of $9,350. Semi-annual as well as monthly payment plans are available. Please see our Admissions page for more details.

11. Do you offer Financial Aid?

We have a very limited amount of financial aid available. Financial Aid decisions are made in February and March. To apply, please contact us. It is worth noting that Full Circle School is significantly more affordable than comparable independent schools in the area.

12. How do I schedule a visit?

Simply click this link and fill out the quick form to set up a time to come visit. We’re looking forward to meeting you and your family!