Continuing a 40-Year Tradition of Nurturing Lifelong Learners

The Beginning: Montessori Preschool and Kindergarten in Mount Clemens

For over 40 years, Montessori Stepping Stones (MSS) has been built on a foundation of community and growth. It all started in 1984, Ms. Diane opened the first preschool and kindergarten classroom in a rented room within the First Presbyterian Church of Mount Clemens. As Ms. Diane recalls she opened Montessori Stepping Stones “with a tiny bit of savings and an abundance of determination.” In the first year of the school, she started with three preschool and kindergarten classrooms and by the second year she opened the elementary classroom.  Eventually, Ms. Diane moved the lower elementary into a building at 178 Cass Ave, Mount Clemens MI. Next, Ms. Diane obtained at lot located at 174 Cass Ave, Mount Clemens in 1998 after a boarding house was destroyed.

Plants in a Montessori classroom at Mount Clemens MI daycare and preschool.

The “Angel” from First Presbyterian

At one point, Ms. Diane ran out of money and thought she would not be able to see the project to completion. According to Ms. Diane, an “angel” came to her as a volunteer from the First Presbyterian Church in Mount Clemens. He was impressed with her mission and donated enough money allowing her to finish the main building at 174 Cass Ave.

Montessori Stepping Stones Continues to Grow

Infant and Toddler Child Care

In 2005, Ms. Diane opened the infant and toddler classroom, which started with just one room for infants and toddlers. In the next four years, she expanded to a total of three rooms in the Infant Toddler Building at 178 Cass Ave. Montessori Stepping Stones continued to thrive and to grow while providing a safe place for children to discover themselves and gain independence.

Middle School

In 2014, Ms. Diane was approached by Ms. Chris who had been watching her children grow and thrive in the beautiful classrooms. Ms. Chris wanted her children to have the opportunity to continue their education at Montessori Stepping Stones after sixth grade. In 2015, Ms. Chris started her Montessori training and began working in the library space in the loft of the main building. In 2016, the middle school program opened.

Next Step Building

In 2019, the Next Step Building was built at 67 Union Street.  Upon completition, the upper elementary and the middle school moved their classrooms into this new space.

Community Building: Mount Clemens and Surrounding Areas

Montessori Stepping Stones has provided a space for both students and teachers to reach their full potential while also provided a caring, non-judgmental atmosphere that has encouraged community building. Teachers have stated they feel the loving support in this community and that it feels like a big family. Teachers prepare classroom environments in a similar atmosphere. The children feel accepted and are given the freedom to explore the materials to foster their lifelong curiosity and love of learning. Students are treated with dignity and with respect.

40 Years of Authentic Montessori Education

Fueled by a passion for authentic Montessori education, Ms. Diane created what we are today: a place where children can have a seamless, continuous education from infancy through adolescence. Now, over 40 years later, Ms. Diane continues to be a guiding presence, ensuring our school remains a place that nurtures independence, curiosity, and joy in every student.

Ready to Learn More?

The best way to understand our mission is to see it in action. We invite you to schedule a tour to experience the Montessori Stepping Stones difference for yourself or visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Meet Our Admin Team

Our team of passionate educators and staff is committed to fostering a nurturing and inspiring environment for every child. With diverse backgrounds and a shared dedication to Montessori principles, they guide our students toward independence and a love for learning.

Ms. Diane
Ms. Diane

Head of School

Ms. Barb
Ms. Barb

Director of Elementary

Ms. Chris
Ms. Chris

Director of Middle School

Ms. Cyndi
Ms. Cyndi

Marketing

Ms. Kandice
Ms. Kandice

Office Manager

Our Dedicated Teachers

Our team of certified Montessori teachers is the heart of our school. With a deep understanding of child development and a passion for nurturing curiosity, they create a warm and inspiring environment in every classroom.  Meet our full team of Montessori educators here.

Schedule Your Visit Today

Discover the unique learning environment at Montessori Stepping Stones. We invite you to experience firsthand how our modern Montessori education can nurture your child’s potential. Contact us to schedule a visit or learn more about our programs.