Question 1

What is the curriculum at Miami Sudbury School?

Accepted Answer

We do not have a predetermined, uniform, or mandatory curriculum. Instead, the curriculum is dynamically driven by each student's personal interests, real-world experiences, and self-chosen goals. Rather than memorizing static lists, students learn by living, playing, and managing their community. By choosing their own activities, they master critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and self-regulation.

Question 2

How will my child learn reading, writing, math, history, and science?

Accepted Answer

Students master foundational subjects naturally through real-life, hands-on activities that they choose themselves. Literacy and mathematics emerge in everyday contexts—such as playing video games, reading signs, following cooking recipes, running school meetings, or managing committee budgets. When a student chooses to learn a subject formally (such as algebra for college admissions), they can request a formal study group with staff or peers.

Question 3

Don't children need to learn "the fundamentals" as early as possible?

Accepted Answer

No. Forcing academic benchmarks too early frequently leads to school anxiety, developmental frustration, and a lifelong resentment of learning. Research demonstrates that early rigidity in topics like basic math can hinder creative problem-solving. When a child is developmentally ready and intrinsically motivated, the entire K-8 math curriculum can be comfortably mastered in a matter of 6 to 8 weeks on average.

Question 4

Isn't there a specific step-wise, linear fashion in which children need to learn?

Accepted Answer

No. Learning is inherently non-linear, and development varies dramatically from child to child. Uniform grade-level benchmarks frustrate children who are developmentally ahead and shame those who need a little more time. In our mixed-age setting, children progress at their own natural pace, building profound self-confidence without artificial pressure.

Question 5

Don't you need to tell kids what to learn and test them to make sure they've learned it?

Accepted Answer

No. We assess true capability and progress through real-world performance and community accountability, rather than standardized tests or letter grades. Standardized tests measure temporary compliance and memorization, not deep, lasting understanding. Competence is verified through action. For example, if a student wants to use specialized school equipment or manage school funds, they must pass a peer-administered certification process proving they can do so safely and responsibly.

Question 6

Will my child be able to get into college, and how do they apply?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sudbury graduates who choose to pursue higher education regularly gain admission to their top-choice colleges and universities. The Application Process: Students apply using narrative transcripts, portfolios of their work, personal essays, and admissions interviews. If a college requires standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, students study for and take them independently. Students can complete dual-enrollment courses at local community colleges to earn transferable college credits while enrolled at The Miami Sudbury School. Sudbury graduates have been accepted to top-tier universities including Harvard, MIT, Columbia, Boston University, NYU, Brandeis, and Carnegie Mellon.

Question 7

What if my child needs to transfer to a conventional school?

Accepted Answer

Students transition to conventional schools with minimal disruption because they have developed exceptional self-regulation, adaptability, and independent study habits. Transition Documentation: If a student transfers mid-way, staff collaborate with them to build a comprehensive "reflective report card" translating their progress and activities into conventional academic language. Throughout high school, students work with a Staff Advisor and peers on the Diploma Committee to produce detailed descriptive transcripts each semester.

Question 8

Is technology and screen time unlimited at the school?

Accepted Answer

No. Technology use is actively managed through community agreements, resource-sharing protocols, and strict spatial rules. Personal devices are restricted to designated spaces and are strictly prohibited during School Meetings and committee hearings to maintain community engagement. School-owned computers are shared resources governed by rules passed in the School Meeting. Every student must agree to use technology in a respectful, age-appropriate manner that honors the safety of our K-12 environment.

Question 9

What is the actual structure of the school if there are no traditional classes?

Accepted Answer

Our daily structure is defined by shared responsibility, active democratic governance, and restorative accountability—not by a rigid bell schedule or predetermined curriculum. The Core Democratic Systems: The school runs through shared governance, giving students (or Voting Members) real practice in communication, fairness, and leadership through: School Meeting (SM) & Mini Morning Meeting (MMM): Each week, Voting Members and staff gather at the School Meeting to make decisions about rules, budgets, and community needs. Every day, the student-run Mini Morning Meeting provides a brief check-in for announcements and updates. Management Teams: Students actively participate in Management Teams to take care of physical school operations—including the kitchen, art studio, technology, maintenance, and shared spaces. Restorative Justice Committee (RJC): When conflicts or concerns arise, the RJC meets to talk things through, listen to one another, and work toward fair solutions and mutual agreements.

Frequently asked questions

What does a typical day look like?

Can parents stay on campus?

Can scholarship funds be used?

What happens if my child misses a day?

What happens if the school closes?

Are refunds available?

Can I pay for one week?