Hickory Acres

My son just finished kindergarten here, he and myself absolutely loved it! Both his teachers were awesome. They seem to do a great job educating the kids. Parents have to understand that half of learning is done at home. We have to enforce what is done in the school. I also LOVE how diverse the staff is. The school is small, and welcoming. The communication between teachers and staff is efficient. I couldn't ask for a better public learning institution. My son will be going into 1st grade come august. I`ll see how that year goes.

Our son has had a great experience with the teachers and classes.

We have moved out of state and truly miss FMS. We moved to a very similar small private Montessori school, but have not had the same feel of community or parent support that this school excels at. The children are truly nurtured and their individuality is supported, while still learning the importance of community. Communication is excellent with parents! There is an enormous amount of love poured into the school and the children reap the benefits.

If you love your children don't send your children here. Horrible!!!!!!!!! I switched my child out and I'm so pleased now. Teachers are awful and the office has very bad attitudes. I think they need to shut this school down.

Counterpane is a very special school. It doesn't take very long for one to realize this. The environment is welcoming for kids, and invites them to learn, explore and play in a self directed way. Their approach is unique, and as a parent building technology for the future of work I wouldn't want my child anywhere else. The level of independence, discipline, hands-on and self-directed learning they provide is exactly what would be critical for a future where simply knowing wouldn't be enough. One where critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and self responsibility would separate those who succeed from those who do not. I don't know any other school in the area that comes close in these aspects. My four year absolutely loves the school, and thanks to their Souns program, he is already a confident reader.This is not a conventional school. Their approach is different but it's effective. They make some conscious tradeoffs and ask a bit from parents, in my view. Most of the parents here are like minded in what they want for their kids. The staffs are friendly, dedicated and diverse.They offer an opportunity for parents to experience the school as a child and it's a great way to see first hand how they do what they do. There is no better school to start your kid in the Fayetetville area.

I wish I had discovered Montessori method earlier! The hands-on approach with self motivated/teacher guided lessons versus a desk and chalkboard method are completely opposite! It was refreshing to witness the children being excited to choose their eductional subjects and tools and complete the tasks! It was also wonderful to see them work in teams and using each others knowledge and viewpoints to complete their projects. The teachers give group or individual lessons on equipment and subjects according to the childs progress and readiness. They also learn what is called Practical Life. These are age appropriate tasks that help build confidence and abilities with simple undertakings like sweeping, cleaning up after themselves, measuring/pouring (like cooking), yard cleanup, taking care of animals, etc. They even have lessons outside the classroom whether it be on a table outside the room or walking the campus for discovery! They are very much about being outdoors! The children are in mixed age classrooms and truly become very close to each other. (especially those that remain thru the years) The older feel special helping the younger. Ive seen the calm atmosphere and pride first hand! It's a priceless method of education for your child as it not only covers the traditional fundamentals, but many extras in the develpoment of your loved ones! Rising Star Montessori Academy is one large family from toddler age to middle school!