Welcome to Circle Mountain Scholars
We are dedicated to providing students with meaningful learning experiences. We offer a full-time micro school, tutoring, and enrichment programs to help students reach their full potential. We are committed to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment for all students. Located in New River, we offer students a place to thrive and reach their potential.
Circle Mountain Scholars Updates
Back to School BBQ - August 9th from 12:00 - 3:00
First day of school is August 18
What do we have going on?
Updates for Summer 2025
Projects
CMS Poultry Project
Students will have the opportunity to raise their own chickens to show at the county fair. We built a new coop specifically for the this project. The kids will learn all about their chicken's breed and the elements of showmanship, as they get ready to present their chickens before the judges. They will each be responsible for the growth and development of their chickens.
Excursions
Field Trips
Our goal is to get out and see as much as we can. Field trips are planned on a regular basis. We are always looking for new an exciting learning experiences for the students. During the 24/25 school year, the students went on some great field trips. Some of the favorites being, the Wildlife Zoo, Goldfield Goldmine, and Bartlett Lake. This coming year will provide the opportunities for students to learn about and explore some new places as well as revisit some past favorites.
Academic Content
Science, Social Studies, Reading, Writing, and Math
It’s been an incredible school year filled with remarkable growth across all academic subjects. Students delved into captivating novels, mastered essential math concepts, and explored various genres of writing. They ventured into the realms of science, American History, world geography, and current events, broadening their knowledge and understanding. Additionally, they learned about talented artists and channeled their creativity into crafting their own masterpieces.
The Animals
Who is doing what?
This past year offered some great animal experiences for the students. Poppi, our Nigerian Dwarf doe, delivered two amazing kids. Milly and Milo have been great additions to our herd. Both Penny and Polly delivered seven healthy piglets. All were rehomed except Pixie. She has found her way into our hearts and has become a permanent member of the CMS animal family. This coming school year will hopefully offer some new opportunities. This summer we added Wilbur, a two year old Kune Kune boar to our farm.
Get to Know Us
Circle Mountain Scholars was founded by Richard Alpert, an accomplished educator, administrator and school counselor with 25+ years of experience working with a wide range of learners from kindergarten to college level coursework.
Circle Mountain Scholars offers a one-of-kind learning experience for students and their families. Located on a mini farm, our program combines traditional education with hands-on project-based learning. Students will be involved in a variety of farming, homesteading, community service, and project based learning activities, providing a unique and enriching environment for all. Join us in cultivating knowledge and growing together!
Tiny Home Project
Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA)
ESA-2023-24-Parent-Handbook-FINAL-PROOF.pdf (azed.gov)
Parents have the right to choose what’s best for their family and have their education tax dollars pay for the school that meets their child’s needs. Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA) make that possible.
With the ESA program, the money that would pay for that student’s education in a neighborhood school follows that student to whichever school the parents choose for their child, including education at home.
ESA dollars cover multiple education expenses such as private school tuition, curricula, educational supplies, tutoring and more.
For information on eligibility please follow the link..
Eligibility Requirements & Application | Arizona Department of Education (azed.gov)
FAQs
What days of the week do you offer instruction?
School is in session Monday through Friday.
What are the hours of the school day?
School hours are 9:00 - 3:00
Do you offer a part time option?
We have very limited spaces for part time students.
What is the cost to attend Circle Mountain Scholars?
Tuition for the school year is $8,000 payable in four quarterly payments. We do offer a sibling discount of 10%.
Can you use ESA to pay for tuition?
Yes, all of our current families use ESA for tuition.