FAQs ABOUT TMA


What is the difference between Talcott Mountain Academy and Talcott Mountain Science Center?
The Science Center (TMSC) was established in 1967 to further the understanding of science in the lives of students, teachers, and adults. It functions as a learning laboratory, facilitating the use of sciences. As an outgrowth of the Science Center, Talcott Mountain Academy was opened in 1983 as a full-time day school for intellectually excited students with a full curriculum whose focus is on math, science and technology. All families with children at TMA are automatically members of the Science Center and are encouraged to participate in special members' functions. In addition, all TMA students are eligible for a discount for any of TMSC's Saturday, after-school and vacation programs.

What is a Suite and why don't they call the levels grades?
The Suite concept is like a hotel suite with several rooms. Students are grouped by chronological age but may be working on different "rooms" based on their ability and interest. Grade level implies that all students are doing the same thing at the same level. The Academy strives to meet individual needs and to challenge students while maintaining a peer group of similar age.

What is Enrichment and what opportunities are available for my child?
Enrichment is a double period in which children can take different non-curriculum classes every trimester. Enrichment opportunities might include: math club, computer programming, drama, debate, and media and electronic journalism. The options change each trimester as students pick a subject area of interest.

Who should apply to Talcott Mountain Academy?
Talented girls and boys in grades K-8, who prefer hands-on learning and are looking for a more challenging curriculum, and those who would benefit from a smaller school, with individual attention in this unique environment.

How do I apply?
Applications for the Academy may be made at any time during the year. However, applications for the Fall are generally accepted by March 1st. Applications after March 1st may encounter filled classes. We encourage prospective families to tour the Academy and each student to spend a day at the Academy during the school year.

What is the Hypermedia Library?
Students use the Hypermedia Library to conduct independent research using a variety of sources from print to the Internet. A faculty member serves as a media specialist to assist students with research. Students are expected to use their hometown libraries to sign out books for research projects.

Tell me about the program for younger children?
TMA added a lower "suite" for children in grades K-3 in 2001. There are two classes, K/1 and 2/3. The groupings may change yearly depending on enrollment. The children have their own classroom area and playscape. They share common resources, and have "specials": music, art, and computers, in the rooms with the rest of the academy students.

What does the upper suite's school day consist of?
The school day is divided into eight periods of 40 minutes each. Lunch/recess break is 40 minutes and occurs in period 4 or 5. Most subject areas are block scheduled to allow for more time-on-task. There is a weekly Mentor/Advisor time and a double period of Enrichment classes. Study class is offered one period each week to let students receive extra help from teachers.

I'd like to help out at TMA, but I have so little time available. How can I volunteer without a big commitment?
Short-term commitments are much easier for all of us to fit in our busy schedule and TMA offers many. By being a judge at Science Fair, sharing a skill or experience with your child's class, or assisting with the Teacher Appreciation Luncheon, you will enrich the TMA experience for all.