Over the past several years, the question, “How do I apply?” has become a frequent inquiry.  In previous years, we have worked on a first-come, first-serve basis. Moving forward it will be a more selective application process. Now, don’t get all stressed! In the process, we are looking for a MATCH.

We are not looking for the smartest kid, the most talented musician, or the most accomplished adventurer. We are looking for children and families that will feel comfortable in the schoolhouse community.

We are looking for families that will be able to commit to leading lessons at home two days per week and meet their volunteer commitment in the classroom. Schoolhouse families must also be committed to our six value statements and our mission. Finally, families should be ready to pay the tuition. We work so hard to keep fees low and are thankful to provide partial scholarships to many students, but we have found that it is important for families to be prepared for the financial commitment. And finally, we are just not set up to help students with severe disabilities or behavior problems.

If you are at all interested in sending your child to one of our current schoolhouse locations (Hickory, Washington, Franklin Park, or Plum), for next school year or future school years, we highly encourage you to complete the Interest Pool form.

This growth and expansion plan reflects our commitment to providing quality education while addressing the challenges posed by increasing student numbers. By strategically adding classrooms, redistributing administrative responsibilities, and adhering to a well-planned timeline, we aim to create a conducive learning environment for both existing and prospective students in the upcoming academic year.

Our registration process:

1. Complete the Interest Pool Online form.
2. Starting in Mid-January of every school year: We will complete INTERNAL registration for returning students and their siblings for enrollment for the following school year. Internal registration will remain open to current schoolhouse families until the end of February
3. At the end of February of every school year: a link will be sent out to those on the interest pool to complete a formal schoolhouse application to apply for the next school year. The non-refundable fee to apply is $100 per student. Keep in mind, applying is not a guarantee of acceptance. By completing the application, we will be able to review the information provided on the application. At this time in February, we will be able to provide how many spots are open at each campus location and for which grade levels. If there are still spots available after this, a link may become public. The application will be available for approximately 2 weeks.
4. From these formal applications, we will select students to come in with their parents for a meeting with their potential teacher. At this meeting, we will get to know you a little, complete some basic placement testing, and review our model. You will also be able to tour the campus you are considering.
5. After this meeting, you will receive a decision on your admissions status within three weeks of your screening meeting. You will either be admitted, put on the official ranked waitlist, or not accepted.
6. If you are admitted, you will have another sit-down with your teacher the week BEFORE Memorial Day weekend. At this meeting, you will get all of your information for the next school year.

Registration FAQs

Can I visit before applying? You are welcome to schedule a visit to one of our campus locations before applying. These visits are not an open house type visit but one where you are scheduled to come. You will be able to observe the classroom environment and teacher interactions. During recess the Campus Site Director will be able to meet with you to discuss any concerns and have your questions answered. Please complete the Interest Pool Form and you will be contacted via email about an upcoming date to visit or you can email [email protected]

What is the interest pool? We call it an “interest pool” because It provides us with a list of families and students that are interested in our program and would like to be provided information about applying when registration is opened or if an unexpected spot opens up at one of our campus locations. It is not a formal waitlist, but shows who is interested in the program and want to receive information regarding how to formally apply to A One-Room Schoolhouse.

What is the likelihood that my child will be taken out of the interest pool and accepted to A One-Room Schoolhouse? This is an unknown as we don’t ever know when current family’s situation will change. The Interest Pool provides us with a way to communicate with you about registration either throughout the current school year or for the following school year when applications are accepted in March. 

How long does my child remain in the interest pool? Your child remains active in the interest pool until you notify the admission office that you no longer want your child on the interest pool.