Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers!)

We generally follow the local public school schedules for breaks and vacations. We have one day per month closed for PD rather than early release or delayed opening days. Although usually we don’t close for snow days (the kids LOVE playing in the snow!) we do not make up missed days (if we do have to close).

Our school day is from 9am-3pm and we offer before and after school as needed from 8am-5pm.

Yes! (Maybe? Wait - shat even is a real school?!)

Elements Academy is an approved private school registered with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). But we’re by no means a traditional school — by design — and proud of it.

A microschool means small on purpose.

Elements Academy is a small, intentionally designed school that feels like a home away from home.

Staying small on purpose allows us to keep student to teacher ratio low and allows children the opportunity to thrive with curiosity, creativity, and connection.

YES to individualized attention and a cozy connected environment

NO to assembly-line learning or crowded, overwhelming chaos

We don’t use traditional grade levels. Instead, students ages 3 through 18 learn in multi-age groups, allowing each child to learn at their own pace and thrive in community.

YES! And they’re not your average report cards.

Twice a year, we share detailed progress reports that highlight your child’s strengths, growth areas, and current learning goals. Each report includes specific skills as well as rich, personalized anecdotes from teachers—so you get a full, human picture of your child as a learner.

Most families tell us it’s the most in-depth information they’ve ever received about their child’s education.

We gladly welcome children of all abilities. Our approach is inherently inclusive: students are not pulled out or separated—instead, everyone gets what they need in a supportive, individualized environment.

“A disability is not a disability until the environment a person is in makes it one.” – Jonathan Mooney

Our teachers are skilled in supporting diverse learning profiles. Many children who have struggled in traditional classrooms thrive here. We focus on the whole child and support each student in uncovering their inner genius.

That said, due to the sensitive and community-oriented nature of our school, we are not the right fit for children with outwardly explosive or unsafe behaviors.

At Elements Academy, we are deeply committed to dismantling systemic inequities in education. This commitment shows up in our hiring, enrollment practices, curriculum, and daily interactions.

We:

• Welcome families of all structures, gender identities, sexual orientations, races, and ethnicities

• Engage students in honest conversations about history, justice, and equity

• Encourage active allyship and advocacy in developmentally appropriate ways

• Lead with openness, compassion, and courage (and hugs, if you’re into that)

We believe that diversity makes our community stronger—and we are always learning, unlearning, and growing together.

Yes! Elements Academy is a registered private school and issues official transcripts upon graduation. These can be used for:

• College applications

• Job opportunities

• Portfolios or personal projects

• Or just as a joyful celebration of growth!

We’re not bound to one boxed curriculum—instead, we use a whole-child, inquiry-based, interdisciplinary approach. Students are supported in developing strong academic foundations while also building emotional intelligence, creativity, and self-direction.

Our tuition reflects our small size, dedicated staff, and highly personalized program. See current tuition options here.

While we’re committed to making Elements accessible to families who share our values, we’re also committed to keeping our doors open. At this time, we offer part-time tuition and payment plans, but there is no financial aid available.

Absolutely! We love showing families what school looks and feels like here. After attending an info session or scheduling a call, you’ll have the opportunity to visit with your child. That way, we can meet them too!

Enrollment at Elements Academy is a thoughtful, collaborative application process — designed to make sure it’s the right fit for your child and for our community. We want everyone — parents, educators, and kids — to get a genuine feel for what it’s like to be part of Elements Academy before making a decision.

Here’s how it works:

1. Start by downloading our free ebook, “Ready for Your Child to LOVE School,” to learn more about our approach.

2. Attend an info session or schedule a call to begin the conversation and get your questions answered.

3. Next steps may include a tour, a child visit, and a trial period, so we can get to know each other in person and see how it feels for everyone.

Our goal is mutual alignment—so your child can truly thrive, and our community can remain intentional, connected, and kind.