Ten Most Frequently Asked Questions / Answers
About the Acton Public Elementary Schools
1. Which of the schools are structured?
All schools provide structure for students in the form of regular routines, consistency of expectations for appropriate behavior, and the structure of the Acton Public School curriculum which is the basis for all instruction.
2. What is your homework policy?
All schools require the completion of homework beginning in the primary grades. The amount of homework will vary depending on the grade level, teacher, and assignment.
3. What core curriculum is taught at each school?
The Acton Public Schools' curriculum is taught in each school. The materials and approaches used to meet the objectives of that curriculum may vary from class to class as well as from school to school.
4. What safety measures are in place at the schools?
The district-wide Response Plan is in place at every school. In addition, each school has a set of rules and behavioral expectations for students to keep them safe at school. There are also system-wide behavioral expectations for students who ride the bus to and from our school.
5. Can parents request a particular teacher for their child?
Parents are welcome to provide the school with written input regarding their child's learning style which the school will consider as part of the placement process. Requests for a particular teacher are not accepted.
6. Is there before and after school day care available?
Yes. Students from all schools can apply to participate in Acton's Community Education's Extended Day school program. Additionally, within the town of Acton, there are a numerous private day care programs.
7. What are the opportunities for parent involvement in the schools?
All schools welcome active parental involvement through numerous volunteer opportunities. Additionally, all schools invite parent participation in their parent organizations and their School Councils.
8. How do the schools report student progress?
The schools use a variety of reporting methods, including parent conferences, portfolio assessments, and written progress reports. Ask about methods of assessment, when visiting each school.
9. How do I make my choice?
Visit the schools, attend the Kindergarten meetings, and pursue the answers to your questions with the staff or via the web sites; materials handed out to determine at which school(s) you and your child will feel comfortable. You can't go wrong.
10. How are the schools different?
As each house has a particular personality or feel, so do the schools. The best way to get your sense of the school is to take the time to make a visit.