What is a charter school?
Charter schools are tuition-free public schools of choice financed through local, state, and federal funds, but which are operated independently of the local school boards. Each charter school has its own unique mission that reflects the vison of the school's founders. Charter schools are fully accountable, must meet the educational needs of their students, and must achieve the goals laid out in their charter.
What makes Mystic Valley unique?
Mystic Valley provides equitable opportunities for all students to acquire a world-class education. Parents and students can expect a rigorous academic program, a safe and secure campus, a strong Code of Values, and dedicated, enthusiastic teachers committed to providing the best possible learning environment for our students. Students have a school uniform and are in attendance for 200 days of instruction. The school day is from 8:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and includes compulsory Spanish language and Character Education programs.
A rigorous and proven educational program
Great teachers and proven curricula are the keys to student success at Mystic Valley. Students in our elementary program are taught Language Arts and Reading through Direct Instruction and Mathematics using the Saxon K-8 Math Series. The science and history/geography curricula follow the Core Knowledge Sequence developed by educational author E. D. Hirsch. In the High School, the course of study prepares students for the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Critical to successful implementation of our program is grade level planning done in teams. All courses are aligned with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and standards.
Direct Instruction
Direct Instruction (DI) is a research-based model for teaching that emphasizes well-developed, clearly designed lessons presented in small learning increments. The key beliefs of DI are that teachers are responsible for student learning and that curriculum design is a key factor in student achievement. DI is a highly structured method of instruction, which features a well-sequenced plan of instruction for reading and language. As DI is based on the mastery learning philosophy, students are grouped and advanced according to their individual abilities and progress.
Core Knowledge
The Core Knowledge Sequence at Mystic Valley is a detailed outline of specific content in English language arts, math, science, history/geography, music, and art. It provides a coherent foundation of learning while allowing teachers the flexibility to meet student needs. Core Knowledge is incremental in its philosophy, designed to encourage steady growth in student knowledge and skills throughout the K-8 years. Mystic Valley is one of less than a hundred officially certified Core Knowledge Schools in the nation and one of a handful of schools to be designated as a Core Knowledge Visitation School.
The International Baccalaureate
Mystic Valley is the first public school in the Boston area to be authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization to offer the IB Diploma Program . The International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) is a nonprofit educational foundation, which grew out of efforts to establish a common curriculum and a university entry credential that are recognized worldwide. The IBO offers the prestigious IB Diploma for the final two years of secondary education and is known throughout the world as one of the most outstanding university preparation programs. The IB places an emphasis on analytical thinking and writing skills and features a demanding curriculum with a global focus.