Frequently Asked Questions

List of 14 frequently asked questions.

• What is Progressive Education?

  Progressive education is a method of teaching that emphasizes experiential learning and critical thinking. It is based on the idea that education should be student-centered, fostering curiosity, creativity, and collaboration rather than rote memorization and passive reception of information. Progressive education often includes project-based learning, interdisciplinary studies, and real-world problem-solving, aiming to prepare students to be active and engaged citizens. Learn more about what Progressive Education looks like at High Meadows.

  
  
  

   

• Is High Meadows School’s model similar to a Montessori school?

  There are aspects of our school philosophies and practices that align with Montessori methodology. Shared practices include: multiage (blended grade level) classrooms, inquiry and student-directed learning, a high respect paid to students as capable learners and community members, differentiated instruction, and hands-on learning. We have had many students transition to High Meadows successfully from a Montessori background.

• Is High Meadows School a good fit for gifted learners?

  Gifted learners need opportunity to exercise critical thinking, problem solving, and learning extensions that go beyond providing the “right” answer. High Meadows School’s structure and focus on inquiry-driven learning allows students to bring both their intellectual capabilities and curiosities to the table. Synthesizing information, applying knowledge to real world applications, and delving further into the depth and breadth of topics provide abundant opportunity to challenge above-average learners. High Meadows does not implement a pull-out or specialized “gifted program” as we believe in the value of a diverse classroom experience for all learners.
  
  See our Portrait of a High Meadows Student to learn more.

• Where do High Meadows students go to high school?

  After completing eighth grade at High Meadows, students choose to attend a variety of high schools, including their local public high schools, magnet schools, or private high schools. They graduate from our middle school program with a strong academic foundation, confidence in their abilities, and love of learning that fuels future success as valedictorians, salutatorians, Governor’s Honors Program participants, U.S. Youth Senate Program participants, National Honor Society members, Beta Club members, and more. 

   

  Learn more about our alumni on the Student Outcomes page.

• Is financial aid available at High Meadows?

  Yes! About 15% of our students in Pre-K through Eighth Grade receive need-based financial aid. Our financial aid program is designed to bridge the gap between what a family can afford to pay and the full cost of tuition. 

• Does High Meadows utilize standardized testing?

  As a developmentally oriented school, we wait to introduce standardized testing until the Fourth Grade. We utilize the ERB (Educational Records Bureau) CTP (Comprehensive Testing Program), which the students complete online each fall on ipads. We have selected the ERB test because it gives a nationally normed, balanced view of a student, measuring both ability and current performance. Testing is intentionally conducted at the beginning of the school year when results can be utilized by classroom teachers to support academic development throughout the year.

• Why are many High Meadows classrooms mixed age/grade?

  High Meadows believes in the social and academic benefits of multiage classes. The Multiage Learning page on our website is a great starting point in understanding this model. We’re happy to share more with you about how children learn and thrive in mixed-age classrooms during your campus visit!

   

   

• What are school hours?

  The school day begins at 8:25 a.m. and ends at 3:15 p.m.

• Where do High Meadows families live?

  Because our school program is unlike any other in the Atlanta area, families travel far and wide to be here. Our community includes families from Roswell, Marietta, Sandy Springs, Buckhead, Dunwoody, Milton, Woodstock, Canton, Alpharetta, Johns Creek and more. Let us know if you’d like to be connected with a family from your area!

• Is there bus service available?

  We do not currently offer any bus service.

• Do families carpool?

  Many do. We provide a resource for current families to find other current families who live near them.

• Is an extended day available for working families?

  Yes, we have popular before- and after-school care programs called Rooster and Stay ‘n Play. There are also many after-school enrichment courses that are offered to students of all ages.

• Is lunch served on campus? Is it part of tuition?

  Families can choose to have a hot lunch delivered to their children through our partner, Yay Lunch!. There is no minimum or maximum number of orders, and a variety of healthy options choices are available to choose from. Lunch service is not included in tuition costs.

• What calendar do you follow?

  We design our own calendar for the academic year based on the educational needs of our students and preferences of our community at large. The school year generally runs from mid-August through Mid-May.