FAQ's

The Mandelstam School serves students from Pre-K 4 through Grade 5.

Drop-off for all students is between 8:00 a.m. and 8:15 a.m. Classes begin promptly at 8:20 a.m.

• Pre-K: 2:30 p.m.

• Kinder: 2:30 p.m. in Quarter 1; 3:15 p.m. beginning in Quarter 2

• Grades 1–3: 3:15 p.m.

• Grades 4–5: 3:35 p.m.

Yes, students are required to wear uniforms.

Our classes are intentionally small to support individualized learning and strong relationships. While the maximum class size is 18 students, we typically average 15–16 per class. With our team of academic teachers, gym coaches, and performing arts professionals, we maintain an overall student-to-adult ratio of approximately 3.3 to 1. This ensures that every child receives the attention, support, and enrichment they need to thrive.

Yes, as part of the tuition The Mandelstam School provides a well-balanced and nutritious lunch each day. Students are asked to bring their own nutritious snacks and refillable water bottles from home. 

After school care is provided for students in Pre-K through fifth grade for an additional cost. They may also sign up and participate in various after school activities.

Not at all. While gymnastics is a core part of our daily curriculum, we are not necessarily training future competitive gymnasts. For younger applicants, no prior experience is required — we simply look for students who can participate safely, follow coach instructions, and show genuine interest in learning gymnastics.

However, for applicants to our upper elementary grades, some prior gymnastics experience is expected in order to fully engage with and benefit from our program.

Spanish instruction is provided in PreK through fifth grade.

In order to preserve the independence of our school and the integrity of our unique curriculum, we do not accept state-funded scholarships, including those provided through Step Up for Students.

As an independent school, TMS operates without affiliation to a public school district or religious organization. This allows us the freedom to design a curriculum that reflects our values, emphasize whole-child learning, and make mission-driven decisions that best support our students and community.

Yes! We are accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS), which ensures we maintain high standards of academic excellence, governance, and care.

No, The Mandelstam School is not affiliated with any religion. While we are a secular school, we place a strong emphasis on values such as kindness, empathy, respect, and community. These principles are woven into daily life on campus and help guide how we learn, play, and grow together.

We love celebrating birthdays in meaningful ways that make each child feel special — without the sugar rush! Instead of bringing sweet treats, children choose a special activity to enjoy with their class, such as pajama day, sports day, show-and-tell, or extra recess. We also sing to them during Morning Meeting, making sure their day feels joyful and memorable.

Our mascot is the springbok — a graceful and spirited antelope native to southern Africa. Inspired by our South African founder, Mr. Mandelstam, the springbok represents agility, curiosity, and strength — qualities we see in our students every day.