Mystic Valley is one of less than 100 officially certified Core Knowledge Schools nationally.   Mystic Valley is one of only 14 Core Knowledge Schools in Massachusetts, and the only one east of the Mississippi River, to be designated as a Visitation School. 

What is a charter school?

Charter schools are tuition-free public schools of choice financed through public, local, state, and federal funds, but are independent of the local school boards.  Each charter school has its own unique mission that reflects the desires of the founding individuals.  Charter schools are fully accountable, must meet the educational needs of their students, and must achieve the goals laid out in the charter or face closure.

What makes Mystic Valley unique?

MVRCS provides equitable opportunities for all students to acquire a first-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 MVRCS.  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 E. D. Hirsch.  In the Upper 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 advance according to their individual abilities and progress.

Core Knowledge

The Core Knowledge Sequence at MVRCS 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.

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 infused with a global focus.

Last Updated on: Wednesday January 24, 2007