
245 Renfrew Drive, Markham, Ontario, L3R 6G3, Canada
1943 Ironoak Way Unit 106, Oakville, Ontario, L6H0N1, Canada
5,689.8 km
5,702.2 km
1971
2012
820
90
Preschool to 12
Nursery/Toddler to 6
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English, French
Academic
Academic
Traditional
Montessori
20 to 26
Varies
$15,166 to $19,788
$8,100 to $15,608
Yes
No
0%
0%
JK to 12
None
$0
$0
51
8
0%
0%
100%
100%
information not available
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Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 12
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - K
No
No
information not available
information not available
There is a great range of approach within Christian education, from those that have chapel in the morning and little more, to those that weave Christian teaching and principles throughout the curriculum and the life of the school. PCA is very much the latter, a place where Christianity informs the entire school experience, and the delivery and the content of the curriculum. This is the school for students for whom the veracity of their faith is tantamount to who they are and the way the wish to learn; faith and fidelity to scripture are at the fore within PCA. The strength of the academic program is evident through decades of academic success. The school is on the larger side of the mean in Canada, and the benefits of that size are seen in the breadth of curricular and extracurricular programs that are on offer. The ideal student is one who is able to thrive in a challenging environment, and who is preparing to advance to university.
View full reportLa Villa rightly prides itself in offering a very authentic presentation of the Montessori method, and for many families that is a primary draw. As such, students are engaged in an active, hands-on, cooperative environment, where the core curriculum is delivered in consort with a growing understanding of their place in the community of the school and beyond. Close attention is given to the acquisition of skills as well as interpersonal, physical, and emotional development.
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"Our children are not just learning but thriving."
LS Ho - Parent (Nov 02, 2021)
We came to PCA on the recommendation of good church friends. It has been the best schooling decision... View full review
"My child appreciates the independence"
hina marsonia - Parent (Feb 13, 2018)
My child appreciates the independence she has in choosing her activities and material that she works... View full review
Teachers instill confidence and motivation
Christine Johnson - Parent (Feb 16, 2018)
My child's experience has been better than I ever could have imagined. Even if we have had a bad mo... View full review
"Nurture + Challenge. Leadership + Stewardship. Integrity + Creativity. Truth + Faith. PCA students in Grades 3 and 7 consistently score a grade or two above national norms on Canadian Achievement Tests (CAT). For the Ontario Grade 10 Literacy Tests, 96% were successful. Join us as we celebrate our 55th anniversary with our dedicated and caring Christian faculty, building an educational environment that inspires wisdom, clarity and purpose. Please contact us for a school tour and discover why our students excel!"
"La Villa Montessori School is a charming community school dedicated to fulfill the intrinsic needs of each child by following Dr. Montessori’s principles and guidelines of the Association Montessori Internationale (A.M.I.). Our mission is to create a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment that satisfies a child’s emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs. By addressing these needs, the children become active and productive members of society while fostering a life-long love of learning."
"At Peoples Christian Academy, we excel in fostering holistic development within a Christian framework, nurturing students spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and physically. Our curriculum integrates academic excellence with character development, preparing students not just for university success but also for lives of service and leadership in their communities. Our vibrant student culture promotes lifelong friendships and effective study habits, while our mission initiatives and Bible classes cultivate spiritual growth. Our dedicated faculty, all committed Christians and Ontario certified teachers, serve as role models and mentors, ensuring that Christian values are lived and taught daily. The combination of these elements creates a unique educational experience that empowers students to serve God's purpose and make a positive impact globally."
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"To maintain our focus on holistic development and Christian values, we prioritize hiring faculty who are devoted Christians and align with our mission. This commitment may limit our hiring pool, but it ensures that our educators embody the principles we teach. We have chosen to integrate spiritual education alongside academics, which might not align with every family's educational preferences. Additionally, in order to protect the Christian curriculums instilled in the programs, we choose not to participate in government subsidies or sponsorship that do not align with our mission. While these choices may not cater to every family's desires, they are integral to fulfilling our mission of nurturing students to serve and lead as Christians in their communities and beyond."
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"Peoples Christian Academy's journey began in 1971 as an elementary school, inspired by Dr. Paul B. Smith of The Peoples Church. This foundational phase focused on providing a Christian education rooted in spiritual and academic excellence. Essentially, our focus is on the missional aspect of Christian education, aligning with Rev. Paul Smith’s vision to equip and train future missionaries. As we expanded to serve the Markham and Greater Toronto Area, we broadened our curriculum to meet the Ontario Ministry of Education standards while maintaining our Christian focus. Our commitment to nurturing students' holistic growth led to the establishment of our Early Learning Centre, which set the stage for academic and spiritual development. A significant milestone came with the achievement of a 100% nine-year university acceptance rate, reinforcing our dedication to academic excellence. These key developments have shaped PCA into a beacon of quality Christian education with a mission focus, w"
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"A student who thrives at Peoples Christian Academy is one who embraces our holistic approach, engaging with both academic and spiritual growth. We welcome students who are open to learning in a Christian environment, whether from Christian or non-Christian backgrounds, provided they agree with our Statement of Faith and Core Family Values. Ideal candidates are those eager to participate in our vibrant student culture, mission initiatives, and diverse extracurricular activities. They should be willing to develop leadership, teamwork, and study skills, and have a desire to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond."
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"While we welcome families from diverse backgrounds, we advise against choosing Peoples Christian Academy if a family does not align with our core Christian values and educational philosophy. Our curriculum and school culture are deeply rooted in Christian teachings, and our mission is to nurture students spiritually alongside their academic journey. If a family is seeking an education devoid of religious influence or their values are in conflict with our Statement of Faith, PCA may not be the right fit. Additionally, our focus on holistic development and mission initiatives requires a commitment to engaging in spiritual growth and community service, which may not resonate with every family. We recommend that families carefully consider whether our approach aligns with their expectations and educational goals before applying."
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"Families choose Peoples Christian Academy for its unique blend of academic excellence and Christian values. They appreciate our commitment to holistic development, where their children grow spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and physically in a nurturing environment. Our strong track record of university acceptance, especially to prestigious institutions, reassures families of our academic rigour. The vibrant student culture and diverse extracurricular activities foster essential life skills and lifelong friendships. Parents value the dedication of our faculty, who serve as role models and mentors, guiding students in their spiritual and academic journeys. Our mission initiatives and Bible classes provide opportunities for students to live out their faith and make a positive impact in the world. This comprehensive approach resonates with families seeking an education that prepares their children to serve and lead with Christian values."
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"Peoples Christian Academy is viewed as a beacon of quality Christian education in the Markham and Greater Toronto Area. Our reputation is built on a foundation of academic excellence, strong Christian values, and a commitment to nurturing students' holistic development. The public recognizes us for our impressive university acceptance rates and the success of our alumni, who often attribute their achievements to the grounding they received at PCA. Our vibrant community, dedicated faculty, and mission initiatives further enhance our image as a school that prepares students to serve and lead with integrity. Families see us as a safe and nurturing environment where their children can grow spiritually and academically, making PCA a respected and valued choice for Christian education."
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"One underappreciated aspect of Peoples Christian Academy is the profound impact of our mission initiatives on students' personal growth. While our academic achievements and university acceptance rates are well recognized, the transformative experiences gained through local and global missions are equally valuable. These initiatives foster empathy, resilience, and a sense of purpose, encouraging students to live out their faith in meaningful ways. The skills and perspectives gained from building houses in Mexico or engaging in street evangelism in Spain contribute significantly to students' development as compassionate, responsible leaders committed to serving their communities and making a difference in the world."
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"Families are often amazed with how smooth everything runs on a daily basis! In fact, there are numerous programs across all divisions, from the Early Learning Centre to Grade 12. Each division requires its own time and space, but thanks to meticulous planning, strong communication among all divisions, and thoughtful organization, everything runs smoothly—like pieces of a puzzle fitting perfectly together. As a result, students of all ages thrive here in a harmonious and well-coordinated environment."
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"We recently added a Junior School Library, giving our younger students a dedicated space to read and enjoy themselves. We have enhanced our educational offerings by integrating more technology (e.g. new 3D printers) into the classroom to better prepare students for future academic and professional challenges. We have expanded our extracurricular activities to include more diverse options in arts, athletics, and academic classes, catering to a wider range of interests and talents. Additionally, our mission initiative program has been strengthened with new partnerships and opportunities for students to engage in meaningful service projects locally and globally. These improvements reflect our commitment to providing a comprehensive education that nurtures every aspect of our students' development. Not to mention we have a brand new play structure in our playground and newly renovated sinks and cabinets for art rooms and junior school homerooms!"
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"In the next five years, Peoples Christian Academy will continue to adapt and grow to meet the evolving needs of our students and families. We plan to further integrate technology into our curriculum, ensuring our students are equipped for the digital age. Our mission initiatives will expand, offering more diverse and impactful opportunities for service. We'll continue to enhance our extracurricular programs, fostering a wider range of talents and interests. These changes will reinforce our commitment to holistic education, preparing the whole person to reach the whole world for Christ!"
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Welcome to Peoples Christian Academy,
In the education marketplace we know that some schools possess features that set them apart. Here are a number of strengths which help make Peoples Christian Academy distinct: a faith-based curriculum; a proven track record in educational advancement; a strong French program, starting in JK; a global and local focus of demonstrating care for the disadvantaged; a pre-K program, an all-grade program; a school community that is growing in size and in diversity.
We'd love to have you visit us in person.
La Villa Montessori School came to fruition after years of imagining what the ideal environment would be like for my own children. I had come to truly understand the African proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child" in order to provide the most positive and healthy environment for the children to thrive in every way. In Latin, the word Villa (Villam) refers to a farm or village and so it became La Villa Montessori School and the very essence of our community. After our first year of operating in 2015, I saw that having a strong cohesive community between the parents and staff at La Villa being a pillar of support and guidance for the children in our care. We continue to provide the highest level of care and compassion for the children while fostering a trust and support with our parents.
As one of a handful of internationally recognized Montessori schools in Canada following AMI’s standards of quality and authenticity, we are very proud to have this distinction to support and grow the Montessori movement around the world.
I invite you to visit us and see what La Villa Montessori School is all about. Thank you.
Montessori
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Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
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Peoples Christian Academy, for considerations of scope and sequence, generally follows the curriculum guidelines of the Ministry of Education for Ontario. Performance targets for the various disciplines are met (and in some cases exceeded) at each grade level.
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These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
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Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
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We believe that every child is a unique gift from God and that it is our responsibility and our privilege to offer every child that joins our program the highest level of care possible. It is through demonstrating God’s love for them in our daily activities that will give these children a safe and loving environment in which they will explore, learn and grow. Not only will we provide the necessities of being fed, clothed, sheltered, and loved, but also experiences in learning that will allow their minds to imagine, explore, discover and learn.
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The systematic approach to teaching beginner writing focuses on directly imparting explicit sentence construction strategies, along with planning, revising, and editing skills. Students are asked to learn these explicit strategies and skills and practice them before applying them in more holistic writing assignments. Grammar and parts of sentences tend to have a central role in systematic writing instruction.
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Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
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Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
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In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
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Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
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Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
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These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
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Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
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These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
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Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Physical Education is taught throughout all grade levels. A fair amount of emphasis is given to healthy living and personal fitness as a means to be at ones best for one's personal well-being and for the glory of God.
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Montessori
Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.
If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
Our approach is academic with a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills.
La Villa Montessori School is dedicated to fulfill the intrinsic needs of each child by following Dr. Montessori’s principles and the guidelines of the Association Montessori Internationale (A.M.I.). Our mission is to create a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment that satisfies a child’s emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs. By addressing these needs, the children will have a wholesome growth while developing a life-long love of learning.
Student-paced
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
Each teacher is encouraged to make provision for differentiated learning.
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Supportive
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
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Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
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RecreationalRec. |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Track & Field |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
JK - 12
0%
0%
$0
$0
100%
100%
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades JK - 12
Yes: grades Nursery/Toddler - K
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
As a Christian school we would be looking for families/students who are in support of our Mission Statement, which is based on the basic tenets of Christianity. Students need to be diligent, respectful, and caring individuals. We understand that students are individuals and these attributes will develop over time.
Families are invited to contact the school for full information, as well as schedule an appointment for a personal tour. Applications are received throughout the year. The submission date will be noted and families will be contacted to begin the acceptance process on a first come, first served basis. The actual interview date will generally fall after the school's re-registration deadline (February). The application must be fully completed and be supported by the required documents such as report cards or transcripts. Upon the completion of the interview a student would be accepted based on meeting all the requirements of enrollment. The family would then need to fulfill financial obligations to secure a placement for their child.