A delay in inspections at Monocacy Valley Montessori Public Charter School’s new building means that instead of starting classes today, as other schools in Frederick County will, the school will open a few days later.

The school moved from Monocacy Boulevard to Dill Avenue during the summer, said Marita Stup Loose, communications specialist with Frederick County Public Schools, but the new facility is not yet ready for students.

The delay is due to routine inspections, said Stacey Miller, a parent volunteer and facility project manager for the school. A new sprinkler system had to be installed on the first floor of the building, and a new fire alarm system was installed throughout the building. These systems have been tested throughout the week.

The school had to push back its final inspection until Friday, and if everything goes well with the inspections for the use and occupancy permits, the school will open on Monday, Miller said.

Monocacy Valley is the first charter school in Maryland. It opened in August 2002.

Students from anywhere in Frederick County may attend, but no public transportation is provided to the school.

Monocacy Valley holds nearly 250 students from pre-kindergarten to eighth grade. The school uses the Montessori style of education — classes include students of various ages and include a lot of hands-on activities.

The students are held to the same achievement standards as all other public school students, Loose said, but it is a semi-independent school, with its own governing body.

Originally published at The Gazette. Thursday, August 25, 2005