What kind of student is a good-fit for the MAAS? Over the past several years students have decided to attend the MAAS for a variety of reasons: the small-school setting and atmosphere, the ability for a small group of teachers to really get to know the child, a different approach to learning, a deep interest in the science and experience based lessons, a way to provide a little bit of additional support for children who have struggled in traditional academic settings, a new and exciting challenge for a high-achieving student, and more. In order to determine if the MAAS is a good fit, families should read the MAAS application carefully and answer the three questions. UPE staff would also be happy to discuss other specific information in order to help with the decision.
How is enrollment decided? For the 2020-2021 school year, we will be offering two classrooms with a maximum of 48 students total. Families interested need to submit the application and student responses prior to January 30, 2020 and will be notified by February 28, 2020. Students who are not currently enrolled in MSSD14 will need to submit a choice application which will be reviewed by the choice committee.
What are the transportation options? The UPE school day starts at 7:55 am and ends at 2:50pm. There is a bus that leaves the SILC building (Manitou Springs High School) around 7:05am and drops students off at UPE. There is also a bus from the El Paso / Teller county line. In the past, families have also carpooled from Manitou Springs / Colorado Springs and from Woodland Park. At the end of the day, students can take a bus to the El Paso / Teller county line, Manitou Springs Elementary School or the SILC building.
What are some after school options? We offer after school programs at Ute Pass Elementary and at the SILC building through Connect14. Students will be transported to this programming but will need to be picked up. Keep an eye out for Connect14 programming.
How to middle school sports work? All sixth grade students can participate in Manitou Springs Middle School after school sports. Students interested will need to complete paperwork and provide the school district with a sports physical. Students participating will arrive at the SILC around 3:15pm with plenty of time to make the 3:30 practice. (Note: Some practices have a later start time.) For away games, students will be picked up from UPE by the athletic bus around 2:15pm. Transportation back to UPE is not provided. All student-athletes will have periodic grade-checks during the season to ensure that they are still eligible.
What is the cost of the field trips and experiences? Throughout the year, Mountain Academy students will go on 10-15 experiential field trips including two overnight camping trips. In the past, many of the field trips and experiences have been partially supported by both a grant, yearbook sales, and the UPE Parent-Teacher Organization. The cost to families for transportation has ranged from $20 total to $50 total with the possibility of assistance if needed. Mountain Academy students will receive an instrument for the school year at no cost. Families are responsible for instrument damage or loss due to negligence.
How about camping supplies and gear? We are able to provide all camping gear and supplies at no cost to families. We ask that the gear is well-cared for, returned promptly and clean. Proper, comfortable, and sturdy shoes for hiking is one thing that is essential but we are not able to provide.
How is the transition to 7th grade and Manitou Springs Middle School? Mountain Academy staff works closely with MSMS staff and administration to ensure a smooth transition to 7th grade both socially and academically. There are several points of connection throughout the year: sports, Connect14 classes, MSMS dances, Mustang Stampede, shadow day, Fitness Day, and more.
Other questions? Please contact Miles Groth, Mountain Academy instructor at [email protected] with additional questions.
How is enrollment decided? For the 2020-2021 school year, we will be offering two classrooms with a maximum of 48 students total. Families interested need to submit the application and student responses prior to January 30, 2020 and will be notified by February 28, 2020. Students who are not currently enrolled in MSSD14 will need to submit a choice application which will be reviewed by the choice committee.
What are the transportation options? The UPE school day starts at 7:55 am and ends at 2:50pm. There is a bus that leaves the SILC building (Manitou Springs High School) around 7:05am and drops students off at UPE. There is also a bus from the El Paso / Teller county line. In the past, families have also carpooled from Manitou Springs / Colorado Springs and from Woodland Park. At the end of the day, students can take a bus to the El Paso / Teller county line, Manitou Springs Elementary School or the SILC building.
What are some after school options? We offer after school programs at Ute Pass Elementary and at the SILC building through Connect14. Students will be transported to this programming but will need to be picked up. Keep an eye out for Connect14 programming.
How to middle school sports work? All sixth grade students can participate in Manitou Springs Middle School after school sports. Students interested will need to complete paperwork and provide the school district with a sports physical. Students participating will arrive at the SILC around 3:15pm with plenty of time to make the 3:30 practice. (Note: Some practices have a later start time.) For away games, students will be picked up from UPE by the athletic bus around 2:15pm. Transportation back to UPE is not provided. All student-athletes will have periodic grade-checks during the season to ensure that they are still eligible.
What is the cost of the field trips and experiences? Throughout the year, Mountain Academy students will go on 10-15 experiential field trips including two overnight camping trips. In the past, many of the field trips and experiences have been partially supported by both a grant, yearbook sales, and the UPE Parent-Teacher Organization. The cost to families for transportation has ranged from $20 total to $50 total with the possibility of assistance if needed. Mountain Academy students will receive an instrument for the school year at no cost. Families are responsible for instrument damage or loss due to negligence.
How about camping supplies and gear? We are able to provide all camping gear and supplies at no cost to families. We ask that the gear is well-cared for, returned promptly and clean. Proper, comfortable, and sturdy shoes for hiking is one thing that is essential but we are not able to provide.
How is the transition to 7th grade and Manitou Springs Middle School? Mountain Academy staff works closely with MSMS staff and administration to ensure a smooth transition to 7th grade both socially and academically. There are several points of connection throughout the year: sports, Connect14 classes, MSMS dances, Mustang Stampede, shadow day, Fitness Day, and more.
Other questions? Please contact Miles Groth, Mountain Academy instructor at [email protected] with additional questions.