Charter School FAQ
The following are answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ) regarding charter schools and what they mean for students, educators, schools and communities. The answers to these FAQs are intended to provide only an introductory overview of key issues. Links are provided to take you to areas with additional information.
What is a charter school?
Authorized by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Education Reform Act of 1993, charter schools are independent public schools that operate under five year charters granted by the Commonwealth’s Board of Education. Charter schools are usually proposed by teachers, school leaders, parents, non-profit organizations, or other members of the community.
How much does it cost to attend Atlantis Charter School?
Charter schools are tuition free schools of choice. They are funded by tuition charges assessed against the school districts where the students reside. The state provides partial reimbursement to the sending districts for the tuition costs incurred.
What is the difference between Atlantis Charter School and a traditional public school?
Charter schools are public schools of choice that report directly to the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and are exempt from many local and state regulations that apply to traditional public schools. These exemptions allow parents, teachers, community leaders, educational entrepreneurs, and others greater flexibility to innovate, create, and provide students with increased educational options. Charter schools must be sponsored by designated local, state, or other organizations charged with monitoring their quality and integrity while holding them accountable for academic results and fiscal practices.
Who can enroll at Atlantis?
Enrollment is open to children of the Commonwealth with priority given to children who reside in Fall River. Proof of residency shall include any one of the following: a valid driver’s license or a voter registration card and a current utility bill or rent receipt. All applications must have a valid Massachusetts address listed as their permanent residence, and to which all communication will be mailed, to be eligible for the lottery.
When can I fill out an application?
The 1st enrollment process for Kindergarten will take place on March 4th and for Grades 1-11 on March 3rd and will be held no later than the 15th of March yearly. To be eligible to start Kindergarten the applicant must be 5 by September 1 of the next school year. To be eligible for Grades 1-11 the applicant must be enrolled in school elsewhere. All Applications for Grades K-11 must be received by ACS starting the 1st business day of October and ending on the 1st business day of February.
Preference shall be given to siblings of students attending Atlantis Charter School. Per the Department of Education, the word “sibling” refers to persons who have a common parent, either biologically or legally through adoption. Whether the children reside in the same household has no bearing on determining if the children are siblings for the purpose of a sibling preference. Children who live in different households may be siblings and children who live in the same household are not necessarily siblings.
Is there an entry exam?
While the School does not administer examinations for entrance, students are assessed after enrollment as a diagnostic tool to benefit teachers and prepare them to help new students access the curriculum.
Is transportation available?
Atlantis Charter School does not provide transportation.
Is there an after school program?
Jr. Tritons Extended Day Program
Program Description: The Lower School will provide after school child care to K-6 students from 2:45 PM to 5:30 PM, Monday-Friday after school. The program will only run on full school days. The Junior Triton program will focus on providing each student a safe, well-structured, educational environment that will help develop and strengthen their academic, physical, and social/emotional well being through individual and team building activities, interactive social groups, and enrichment programs.
Payment: The expected cost of the extended day program will be $10 per day, per child. Payment must be made in advance every Friday, the week before the child attends the program in the form of checks, money orders, or cash.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Please see the student handbook for details.