Open Fields is a small non-graded private school, just off the common on Thetford Hill, Vermont.
Founded in 1971 by Jean K. Aull, it is open to all children, ages 4 through 12.
The central philosophy of Open Fields is that children are naturally eager to explore and discover and learn, and that every natural activity of children is, in itself, a learning experience.
Children learn most successfully when they are free to do their very best, free from excessive competition with their peers, and free from the fear of failure.
Failure to master something the first time or failure to be "first" must never mean disgrace, but must mean simply that it is time to attack the problem or skill again, with humor, determination, and courage.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: Kindergarten-6
- Enrollment: 20 students
- Yearly Tuition: $6,500
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-6
Year Founded
1971
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
20 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
11%
State avg.: 12%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
3 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Application URL
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Open Fields School cost?
Open Fields School's tuition is approximately $6,500 for private students.
When is the application deadline for Open Fields School?
The application deadline for Open Fields School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Open Fields School located?
Open Fields School is located in the Thetford Center neighborhood of Thetford, VT.
Related Schools
Show me:
People that viewed Open Fields School also viewed these schools: Crossroads Academy.
The nearest high school and elementary school to Open Fields School is Thetford Academy (0.4 miles away)
The nearest preschool is The Montessori Children's School (4.0 miles away)
Show me:
Show me:
School
Location
Miles
Quick Facts
95 Dartmouth College Highway
Lyme, NH 03768
(603) 795-3111
Lyme, NH 03768
(603) 795-3111
3.4 miles
Gr: K-8 | 128 students Avg. class size: 14 students Extracurrculars: 7 Tuition listed
School Reviews
Endorse Open Fields School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
What Private School Alumni Say a Decade Later
Ten years after graduation, private school alumni reflect on advantages, regrets, career impact, and life lessons—unearthing truths families need to know.
Can Private School Help with College Admissions?
Explore how private schools influence college admissions—advantages, limitations, and what families should expect.
Inside the Daily Life of a Private School Student
Discover what daily life is like for private school students in 2025, from classes and athletics to dining, dorms, and extracurriculars.
