FAQs
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions. We know choosing the right learning environment for your child is an important decision, and we want to make that process as clear and supportive as possible. Below you’ll find answers to common questions about our programs, structure, and approach. If you need additional clarification, we’re always happy to connect directly with families.
General / Structure
Q: Is Growing Minds Montessori Academy a licensed school?
A: We are currently operating as a Montessori-based learning center while we prepare for licensure as a private Montessori school. Our program is structured and full-day in format, with a focus on academic development, independence, and individualized instruction.
Q: Do children have to enroll in all programs?
A: No. Families may enroll in one or more components of our program based on their child’s needs, including academic enrichment, early childhood learning, and Russian language enrichment.
Academic Enrichment & Homeschool Support (K–2) Program
Q: What does this program include?
A: This program provides small group and individualized Montessori-based instruction in reading, writing, and math for early elementary learners who benefit from additional academic support or a more personalized approach.
Q: Is this program suitable for children who are behind in reading or math?
A: Yes. This program is designed to support children who may need extra guidance in foundational skills while building confidence and independence through hands-on learning.
Q: How does homeschooling work with your program (Form 4140)?
A: Families who choose to homeschool their child may participate in our Academic Enrichment & Homeschool Support program while maintaining their home education status. In Hawaiʻi, parents typically submit the required homeschooling notification (Form 4140) independently. Our program is designed to support homeschool learners by providing structured Montessori-based instruction in reading, writing, and math within a small group setting.
Q: We are new to homeschooling and my child is struggling. Can your program replace homeschooling entirely?
A: Many families come to us at the beginning of their homeschooling journey when their child is experiencing academic challenges. While our Academic Enrichment & Homeschool Support program provides structured, Montessori-based instruction in reading, writing, and math, parents remain responsible for their child’s home education plan and required state homeschooling filings.
Our role is to support families by providing consistent academic instruction, individualized learning, and a structured environment that builds confidence and foundational skills. We also provide regular progress updates and learning documentation that families can use to support their homeschool records.
For many families, our program becomes an important academic support system alongside their home education.
Early Childhood Development (3–5) Program
Q: What does the Early Childhood Development program focus on?
A: This program provides a Montessori-based foundation for early learners, focusing on independence, early academics, social development, and hands-on exploration in a calm, structured environment.
Q: What does a typical day look like for early childhood learners?
A: Young learners participate in Montessori activities that build independence, early academic skills, and social development through hands-on materials and guided exploration in a calm, structured environment.
Q: Do I need to homeschool my child to enroll in the Early Childhood program (ages 3–5)?
A: No. Families do not need to be homeschooling to participate in our Early Childhood Development program. This program is open to families seeking a Montessori-based early learning environment that supports independence, early academics, and social development in a structured, small-group setting. It can be used as a standalone program or as part of a broader homeschool plan if families choose.
Russian Language Immersion Program
Q: Is the Russian program required?
A: No. The Russian Language Immersion block is optional and designed for families who would like their child to be exposed to a second language through speaking, reading, writing, and cultural learning.
Q: Does my child need prior Russian experience?
A: No prior experience is required. Instruction is designed to be accessible for beginners through immersive, age-appropriate activities.
Q: Do families need to be enrolled in the Academic Enrichment & Homeschool Support program or Early Childhood Development program to join this program?
A: No. The Russian Language Immersion program is available as a separate component. Families may enroll their child specifically for Russian language learning, or combine it with Academic Enrichment & Homeschool Support program or Early Childhood Development program. This program is designed to support speaking, reading, writing, and cultural understanding through immersive, age-appropriate instruction.
Montessori Approach
Q: How is your program different from a traditional school?
A: Our program follows a Montessori-based approach that emphasizes small-group, individualized instruction, hands-on learning, and mixed-age classrooms. Instead of a one-size-fits-all model, children progress at their own pace with targeted support in foundational academic skills.
Q: What makes your program Montessori-based?
A: We use hands-on Montessori materials, mixed-age learning environments, and individualized instruction that supports each child’s developmental pace, independence, and confidence in learning.
Q: How do you support children who are struggling academically?
A: Our approach focuses on meeting each child where they are. We provide individualized instruction, hands-on learning, and small group support to strengthen foundational skills in a supportive environment.
Q: How will I know if my child is making progress?
A: We provide regular updates on each child’s academic development, including progress in core skills such as reading, writing, and math. Families receive ongoing communication so they can clearly understand their child’s growth and areas of improvement. These include weekly messages and quarterly progress conferences.
Scheduling / Enrollment
Q: What are the program hours?
A: Academic Enrichment & Homeschool Support program and Early Childhood Development program run Monday–Thursday from 8:30am–1:00pm. The Russian Language Immersion block runs Monday–Thursday from 1:30pm–3:30pm.
Q: Can families enroll mid-year?
A: Enrollment availability depends on space. Families are encouraged to inquire at any time to discuss openings and placement options.