Frequently Asked Questions
and other things you should know....
How is the Hiland Hall School unique?
The Hiland Hall School creates a learning environment where students of different ages can interact with each other. We support what's known as an "emergent curriculum"; the curriculum emerges from the thoughts, interests and needs of the students. An overall framework guides us through the year. Our methods are founded upon practice developed over the last thirty years by other progressive institutions such as the Prospect School and Bank Street School.
How do you teach children of such diverse ages?
For most work and study, students belong to distinct subgroups appropriate to the age and skill level. Group projects at this level foster cooperative and creative responses. We have recently created a space for our Middle School which operates separately at least half the day and are in the process of developing a distinct Middle School program.
Students also work on individualized assignments and, at older levels, in closely supervised independent study on topics of compelling interest to the student. There are still opportunities for interaction between students of different ages, allowing children to take varying roles of leadership over their years at Hiland Hall, and to enjoy the company of others in many different ways.
- Tell me about some of your recent special activities.
- Overnight trips which included hiking, camping, and cooking activities. Celebration of Thanksgiving
- A performance of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night
- French Language studies
- Interpersonal focus retreats for Middle School students
- Field trip to a local organic farm to study sustainability
- Folk music instruction
How are parents informed of their child's progress?
Twice a year students receive extensive written reviews which describe and assess the child's work habits and attitudes, interests and activities, and progress in formal learning. Parents are encouraged to ask questions and raise issues any time. There are frequent opportunities for informal communication as well as formal conferences.
What about reading, writing and arithmetic?
Our emphasis is on "learning to learn"; we encourage active thinking, problem-solving, and group interaction. Children have regular individual conferences and lessons with their teachers, emphasizing skill development and expansion of thinking.
What happens when it's time for my child to transition into public school?
Our graduates are frequently said to be highly creative and clear thinkers who take a strong role in their own learning. Students' Senior year is actively spent reviewing their learning approaches, knowing what they can count on in themselves, and preparing for the transition. Our students have been successful in a variety of school settings.
Can I visit the school to see what it's like?
Please do! You are welcome to come in any time (please call ahead to let us expect you). We can also arrange an appointment to talk about the school and discuss your child's needs.
Can we afford Hiland Hall?
One of our primary goals as an institution is to be inclusive, and we don't want a family's income level to be a barrier to entry. Tuition is assessed on a sliding scale.
Who was Hiland Hall?
Hiland Hall (1795-1885) was born in Bennington, and went on to dedicate a good part of his life to public service, including as Representative to the U.S. Congress, and Governor of the state of Vermont. A student of and active participant in the history of his times, he was an altogether fascinating fellow.
