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Frequently Asked QuestionsPlease find the answers below to some of our most frequently asked questions by prospective parents.
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When is the deadline to apply?Applications are considered on a rolling basis. The sooner the application is received, the sooner we can guarantee your child a place in the appropriate grade.
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What makes Our Lady of Mount Carmel a great school?Our school has a strong sense of community that is committed to daily living of Gospel values. Our teachers develop strong relationships with every student, which is built on trust and mutual respect. In addition, they are dedicated to ensuring all students learn.
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Can we apply to Our Lady of Mount Carmel School even though we are not Catholic?Yes. While we are a Catholic school, Our Lady of Mount Carmel encourages families of all faiths to attend. However, religious education is a requirement of the school curriculum. Part of our mission is to guide students to love Christ and follow his commandments. In addition, students participate in monthly liturgies, prayer services, and religious holy days. Families of school alumni, who were not Catholic, appreciated the education their children received at our school.
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How many students are currently enrolled at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School?Currently, we have 120 students enrolled at our school. Our maximum class size is 20 students. This allows teachers to really get to know their students and offer more individualized instruction. Our school facilities were not built to accommodate hundreds of students, so we will never become a very large school, and therefore we can continue our tradition of knowing all our students on an individual basis.
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How does the school promote values?
Gospel values are interwoven throughout the school day in each classroom. The teachers and staff help guide students to make choices based on these values. Each grade also engages in a year-long community service project in which they give of their time and talent. Our hallways are lined with reminders to live according to values. It is our goal to develop students into intentional Disciples of Christ. -
What is the age cutoff for Kindergarten?Children entering kindergarten must be five years old by September 1st. There are no exceptions to this rule. This is the cutoff date used by the Diocese of Providence and by the Bristol/Warren school system.
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What time does school start?Our academic day starts at 8:50 a.m. and ends at 3:15 p.m. Students may arrive at 8:30 a.m. in the school play yard, which is monitored by staff.Does my child need to wear a uniform?Our students do wear uniforms. Uniforms are an important part of the experience at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School. In addition to making every child feel equal, parents find they are more convenient and less expensive than a regular casual wardrobe.
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Is there financial assistance available?
Yes, there is assistance for those who qualify. Parents must apply through the FACTS tuition management system to receive assistance from the Diocese of Providence. In addition, families could qualify for additional assistance through their parish. -
Is there a sibling discount?We do offer a sibling discount, and the information is available on our tuition information sheet. We also offer financial assistance to those who qualify.How can parents be involved in the school?Parents can be involved by volunteering their time and talent. Volunteer opportunities are available during lunch and recess time, in the classroom, on a field trip, during after-school activities, or at a school-sponsored event. Per Diocesan policy, all volunteers are required to have a background check and complete Safe Environment training.What high schools do students typically attend?Students who apply themselves, work hard, attend school regularly, and are responsible, respectful young people are admitted to area Catholic high schools including Bishop Hendricken, LaSalle Academy, Bishop Stang, St. Mary Academy Bay View, St. Raphael Academy, and Portsmouth Abbey. In addition, our graduates are typically well-prepared to register for advanced level and honors courses at the high school level.Do you offer bus service?Bus transportation is available to students in Kindergarten-grade 8 who meet the requirements and reside in Bristol and Warren.