Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that choosing the right school is a big decision. Here, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we receive. If you don’t see your question answered, please don’t hesitate to contact our admissions office.

Academics

The School for Advanced Studies provides a unique and challenging educational experience for students in grades 5-11 (expanding to grades 5-12). Our program is designed to prepare students for success in higher education and beyond by offering an advanced liberal arts curriculum, specialized concentrations, and a focus on critical thinking and intellectual growth.

Yes, we offer a vibrant fine arts program that includes visual arts, theater, and dance. Our program encourages creativity, self-expression, and appreciation for the arts. Students have opportunities to showcase their talents through exhibitions and performances.

Yes, we offer a dynamic music program that includes instrumental and vocal music. Our program provides students with opportunities to learn music theory, develop their musical skills, and perform in ensembles and concerts.

Yes, we provide a comprehensive special education program designed to meet the individual needs of students with disabilities. Our program includes individualized education plans (IEPs), specialized instruction, and support services to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed.

Our faculty members are highly qualified and experienced educators with advanced degrees in their respective fields. They are passionate about teaching and committed to providing students with a challenging and engaging learning experience.

We integrate technology into our curriculum to enhance learning and prepare students for the digital age. Our classrooms are equipped with modern technology, and students have access to various digital resources and tools.

We maintain small class sizes to ensure that each student receives personalized attention, more meaningful interactions and individualized support.

Our rigorous academic program, personalized college counseling, and opportunities to earn college credits prepare students for success in higher education. We provide guidance on college selection, application processes, and financial aid options, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their next academic journey.

School Life

Our school day runs from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. This schedule allows for a comprehensive academic program, including seminar classes, advisory groups, and extracurricular activities, while also providing students with sufficient time for independent study and personal pursuits.

Yes, we offer a lunch program for all students. Our lunch program provides nutritious and balanced meals, catering to various dietary needs. We believe that a healthy diet is essential for student well-being and academic performance.

Yes, we provide a variety of after-school programs for students, including clubs, sports, and academic enrichment activities. These programs offer students opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build relationships with their peers.

Yes, we have a comprehensive sports program for students, including both team sports and individual activities. Our sports program emphasizes teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical fitness. We believe that participation in sports contributes to students’ overall development.

Yes, we offer a transportation program for our students. We strive to make our school accessible to students from a wide geographic area. Please contact our admissions office for specific details regarding transportation routes and schedules.

Yes, we offer a before-school program for students who need to arrive early. This program provides a safe and supervised environment where students can prepare for the school day.

We value parent involvement and offer various opportunities for parents to participate in the school community. These include parent booster clubs, parent-teacher conferences, volunteer opportunities, and participation in school events. We believe that a strong partnership between parents and the school is essential for student success.

Enrollment

At the end of the open enrollment period, if the number of applications does not exceed capacity, all applicants will receive offers of enrollment. If applications exceed capacity, in any grade, the School will conduct a lottery to determine enrollment. Anyone not enrolled through the lottery will be placed on a waitlist.

Yes, we continue accepting applications after Open Enrollment ends. However, only applications submitted during the Open Enrollment period are included in the lottery. Applications submitted after the Open Enrollment period has ended will be processed on a first come, first-served basis, following applications received during the Open Enrollment period. If a waitlist exists for the particular campus/grade, the applicant will be placed on the waitlist according to the time and date of their submission, after applications included in the lottery.

If a student receives an enrollment offer, that student’s sibling(s) will be granted Sibling Priority. (The Sibling Priority enrollment offer occurs when registration material for the admitted student is submitted to the school.) Sibling Priority does not guarantee a sibling a seat, but it does improve the sibling’s placement on the waitlist and increases the chance of receiving an enrollment offer. In addition, please be sure to add siblings to each other’s applications.

We understand that managing multiple schedules and schools in a household can be challenging. That’s why this part of our enrollment policy is intended to help families ensure that their students can attend the same school if they choose.

Finally, Arkansas education laws allow an enrollment preference for children of founding members and children of full-time teachers and staff. It also allows for an enrollment preference for siblings of enrolled students, our policy for which is outlined above.

Each time an opening becomes available in a particular grade, the school will contact the parent/guardian of the next student on the waitlist for that grade and offer their child the open spot. If the parent/guardian declines the spot, it will be offered to the next student in line on the waitlist for that grade, and so on.

You may notice fluctuations in your student’s waitlist number. This is a fairly common occurrence, especially during peak times of enrollment, and should not be a cause for concern. There is a lot of movement on the waitlist in the spring, especially for entry-level grades, and as other families make choices. So even if your student’s waitlist number is high following the lottery, things can change rapidly.

There are many variables involved, so we cannot accurately predict chances of enrollment. Much depends on the decisions of other parents and the availability of seats at a particular campus, in a particular grade. Offers are made throughout the spring, summer, and even into the next school year. Our teams work diligently to ensure that anytime a seat becomes available, an offer is made to the next student in line.