FAQ

“Our aim is not only to make the child understand, and still less to force him to memorize, but so to touch his imagination as to enthuse him to his innermost core.”
      - Maria Montessori

(518) 937-9338

mailing:
P.O. Box 9423
Schenectady, NY 12309

physical:
1840 Van Vranken Ave
(St. Anthony School)
Schenectady, NY 12308

click here for directions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is RiverRun?
RiverRun is a small non-public, non-denominational school in Schenectady, New York that opened in Fall 2008. RiverRun practices the educational philosophies of Maria Montessori - providing individualized education, community classrooms, a holistic approach to learning, and a focus on achieving social harmony.

Where is RiverRun located?
RiverRun is located at 1840 Van Vranken Avenue in Schenectady. Click here for directions and click here for background information about the location.

What age children will be served?
RiverRun will initially serve a single, small lower elementary classroom of children ages 6 - 9 years (1st to 3rd grades) in a multi-age learning environment. Enrollment growth is planned conservatively. Each year, the school will grow by adding an elementary grade up to 6th grade (12-year olds). It is also expected to, within a couple of years, include a primary program (for ages 3 - 6 years). Long range plans may include the addition of a middle school program (for ages 12 - 14 years).

What makes RiverRun different?
Click here to read about the key components of a RiverRun education and here to read about the key differences between a Montessori and a typical public elementary school.

Who will oversee RiverRun?
RiverRun is formally overseen by a working group of co-founders and board of trustees. RiverRun has received a provisional educational charter from New York State's Board of Regents and reports to New York State Education Department's Office of Nonpublic Schools.

What is the tuition?
Tuition for the 2008-09 school year is $5,650. As RiverRun is a community, cooperative venture and to help keep tuition affordable, families are asked to contribute at least 20 volunteer hours to the school each year.

Will the teaching staff be certified?
The teaching staff is carefully selected to ensure a good match to our unique learning approach and to ensure a high quality program for all students. The directress is NYS teacher certified for grades K-8 and is in the process of receiving Montessori certification. All staff will participate in ongoing training.

What will be the school's schedule?
RiverRun operates on a September-June schedule. Click here for the full school calendar in PDF format.

School days are from 8:50 AM to 3:05 PM.

How will the students be graded/evaluated?
RiverRun students do not take typical tests or receive typical graded report cards. Rather, students build portfolios, which are qualitatively evaluated by the students themselves as well as by the directress. In addition, the directress keeps a daily journal for each student and will provide parents with bi-annual oral and written evaluations of their children that focus on discussions of strengths and weaknesses in order to appropriately modify the child’s educational plan.

How do I apply?
An application (in PDF format) can be downloaded here. Alternatively, application materials will be mailed upon request.

Is RiverRun an outreach of any of the existing Montessori primary schools in the area?
No. While it is our intent to work cooperatively with the existing Montessori primary schools in the area, RiverRun is its own independent entity. Enrollment history in or connection to one area primary school over another will not result in special admissions preference.