The Mountain School of Milton Academy Photo #0 - The Mountain School - 418 Acres

The Mountain School of Milton Academy

The Mountain School of Milton Academy is a transformative semester program for high school students set on a working organic farm in the hills of Vershire, Vermont. Each fall and spring, 45 motivated students from across the country come together to live, learn, and work side-by-side in a close-knit, off-the-grid community. The Mountain School accepts applications for Juniors, Seniors (fall only), and Sophomores (spring only).
Students live in small faculty-led dormitories, sharing in daily responsibilities and making real decisions about how the community functions. Through rigorous, integrated coursework and hands-on work on the farm and in the forest, students develop a deep understanding of their world, their impact, and their potential.
Our curriculum blends intellectual challenge with experiential learning, encouraging students to think critically, speak confidently, and engage fully. Whether harvesting crops, exploring ideas in seminar, or cross country skiing across the winter landscape, students build lasting connections to the land, to one another, and to themselves.

Quick Stats (2025)

  • School Type: Alternative School
  • Grades: 10-12
  • Enrollment: 45 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $38,500
  • Acceptance rate: 60%
  • Average class size: 8 students
  • Application Deadline: Feb. 15 / rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

The Mountain School of Milton Academy ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Vermont for:

Category
Attribute

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 10-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Mild Learning Differences
Year Founded
1984
First Day of School
Sat. Aug 23, 2025
Last Day of School
Sat. May 30, 2026
Campus Size
418

Student Body

Total Students
45 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
22%
State avg.: 13%
Students by Grade
The Mountain School of Milton Academy Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
14 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
3:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
64%
Average Class Size
8 students
Number of AP Courses
6 courses
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
Feb. 15 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
% on Financial Aid
40%
Acceptance Rate
60%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Jara Ruiz-Anchia
Application URL

School Notes

  • The Mountain School of Milton Academy is a semester-long academic program for high school juniors located on a 418-acre working organic farm in Vershire, Vermont. Operated by Milton Academy since 1984, the program brings together about 45 students each fall and spring to live, learn, and work in a close-knit, intentionally unplugged community. Students engage in rigorous academics, including AP and honors-level courses, particularly in environmental studies and English, while also participating in hands-on farm work, cooking, and outdoor education. Life at the Mountain School is deeply connected to the natural world. Students spend significant time hiking, exploring the forest, and building outdoor skills. A signature part of the experience is Solo, a period of intentional time alone in nature that encourages reflection, self-reliance, and a deeper sense of place. Living in faculty led houses, students share chores and meals, building a sense of interdependence and responsibility. The program emphasizes place based learning, sustainability, and personal growth, encouraging students to think deeply about their relationship to the land, to each other, and to the broader world. For many, the experience is transformative, offering renewed academic motivation, lifelong friendships, and greater self-awareness.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does The Mountain School of Milton Academy cost?
The Mountain School of Milton Academy's tuition is approximately $38,500 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of The Mountain School of Milton Academy?
The acceptance rate of The Mountain School of Milton Academy is 60%, which is lower than the national average of 70%.
When is the application deadline for The Mountain School of Milton Academy?
The application deadline for The Mountain School of Milton Academy is Feb. 15 / rolling (applications are due on Feb. 15 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).

School Reviews

Endorse The Mountain School of Milton Academy. 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
Endorse this school:

Recent Articles

Is It Easier to Land a Private School Job When You're Already Employed?
June 09, 2025
Is It Easier to Land a Private School Job When You're Already Employed?
Is it easier to land a private school job when you're already employed? This article breaks down employer biases, networking advantages, and negotiation leverage—plus the latest hiring trends in independent schools. If you’re considering a move, here’s how to maximize your position.
How to Secure a Private School Job When You're Unemployed Without the Stigma
June 09, 2025
How to Secure a Private School Job When You're Unemployed Without the Stigma
Finding a private school job while unemployed can be tough, but it doesn't have to hold you back. This article breaks down networking strategies, ways to stand out, and smart approaches to keep your confidence strong. Learn how to turn setbacks into strengths and secure the right opportunity—without the stigma.
The Private School Job Hunt: Insider Tips for Employed & Unemployed Educators
June 09, 2025
The Private School Job Hunt: Insider Tips for Employed & Unemployed Educators
Navigating the private school job market? Whether you're employed or unemployed, the right strategy can make all the difference. This article breaks down essential steps to keep your resume sharp, expand your network, and stay visible in the education community. Learn insider tips to position yourself for success in private schools.

Quick Stats (2025)

  • School Type: Alternative School
  • Grades: 10-12
  • Enrollment: 45 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $38,500
  • Acceptance rate: 60%
  • Average class size: 8 students
  • Application Deadline: Feb. 15 / rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Request Information

Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Vermont is $20,434 for elementary schools and $34,127 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Vermont is 70% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

Quick Links