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Frequently Asked Questions
Will my child have a roommate?
Yes. We believe many valuable learning experiences happen in the dorm. Learning to live with a roommate, regardless of mood, study habits or sleep patterns, is a valuable part of learning how to live in a community. We generally match new students with returning students initially. At semester break, students have the option of changing rooms and roommates.
Are students allowed to bring microwaves, refrigerators or televisions?
No. Dorm lounges are equipped with both refrigerators and microwaves and there is a television located in the student lounge. Movies are often shown on the weekend and students can watch programs via the internet during free time.
Who will help my child get out of bed in the morning?
Students are responsible for getting themselves up and to breakfast and Collection on time. Missing Collection or weekend breakfast/check-in can result in a Slip, multipal slips can result in a loss of privledges.
What do students do if they get sick?
Scattergood has a Health Coordinator on staff that evaluates the students' medical needs. If a student is sick and needs to be excused from classes, the student can either come down to the Health Office, or send a friend if they are too ill, before their first required activity. The Health Coordinator will determine if the student needs to stay in bed or if they are well enough to go to class. If professional medical attention is needed, a staff member will take the students to either the doctor’s office in West Branch, or in event of an emergency, to the hospital in Iowa City.
What kind of food is served at meals?
The majority of the food cooked in our kitchen comes from our organic farm. Meals are served family-style and there is a salad bar at every lunch and dinner. Every meal has a vegetarian option as well as onion, gluten and dairy free options. Our fare ranges from American standards like pizza to ethnic favorites like Pad Thai. Check out the Scattergood Kitchen Blog at http://scattergoodfood.blogspot.com/
How big is the average class size?
The average class is between 12 to 15 students, though some P.E. classes can be as large as 20.
How do I find out how my child is doing in class?
Each month, parents as well as students receive progress reports. The reports inform the parents how the student is doing in every class and 4 times a year the reports include an evaluation of the student's community performance. If a student is ever in danger of receiving a not passing or a no pass on their grade report, an Academic Alert will be sent out to the parent/guardian as well as given to the student. The Academic Alert goes out about one week before the end of the block when final evaluations. It gives a detailed summary of what the student needs to do in the class in order for them to receive a passing mark. The Academic Dean is available for questions about the reports or your child's academic performance in general. Parents can also contact teachers and advisors directly via email or telephone if they have questions about a specific class.
Can students have cell phones?
Yes. Cell phones are permitted but usage is restricted to the dormitories. There are also regular phones available in both dorms, and most students have calling cards.
Do students have access to the internet, email and messaging?
Yes. We have a fully wireless campus and each student receives a laptop to use throughout the school year.
Can students have cars on campus?
No. Unless a student is Day Student and given special permission from the Dean of Students and the Head of School, they are not allowed to have a car on campus. If permission is granted, the car may only be used to transport the student to school and home. Students with cars may never transport another student off campus.
How do the students get supplies and toiletries?
Students may walk to West Branch or sign up for Town Trip on the weekends, which will take them to Iowa City if they need supplies.
How much spending money does my child need?
Free time is pretty limited during the week and Town Trip fills up fast. Most students need somewhere between $20 and $50 dollars per month.