Common Questions About Our School
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions by parents considering Montessori Stepping Stones.
What age groups do you serve?
- Infant & Toddler Program: For children as young as six weeks, transitioning to preschool around age three.
- Preschool & Kindergarten: Starting at 2 years and 9 months (toilet trained) through kindergarten.
- Elementary & Middle School: Engaging academics for grades 1–8
What is the Montessori method?
The Montessori method, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, is rooted in the belief that children thrive in hands-on learning environments that foster independence and a sense of community. This student-centered approach allows children to take ownership of their education in a safe and supportive setting.
How do you handle discipline?
Our approach focuses on positive guidance and natural consequences, helping children learn self-regulation and respect for others.
What are the teacher qualifications?
All of our lead teachers are certified in Montessori education and have extensive experience in early childhood development.
Do you offer part-time programs?
In our infant toddler program, we offer both full-time and part-time programs to accommodate the diverse needs of our families.
In our preschool program, we are a five day a week program with half day options.
How do you communicate with parents?
We maintain open communication through regular updates, parent-teacher conferences, and the Remind app.
What is your school calendar?
Our school operates year-round with scheduled breaks, aligning with traditional school holidays and summer sessions.
How do you ensure student safety?
We have strict safety protocols in place, including secure entry systems, regular drills, and trained staff to ensure a safe environment.
What is the student-to-teacher ratio in Montessori classrooms?
We maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio to ensure personalized attention and support for each child’s individual learning needs.
Questions About Enrollment and Tuition
Find answers to your questions about our enrollment process, tuition fees, and financial aid options.
What is the enrollment process?
Our enrollment process begins with a tour of the school, followed by an application submission, and registration payment.
Are there any enrollment fees?
Yes, there is a non-refundable enrollment fee due at the time of application to secure your child’s spot.
Do you offer financial aid?
Unfortunately, we do not offer any financial aid.
How is tuition structured?
Tuition is structured based upon the daily rate of the program. We then take this sum and divide it into equal payments.
Do you offer a summer program?
Yes, we have a ten-week summer program with part time and full-time options.
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Understanding Montessori Education
Explore the unique benefits of Montessori education and how it fosters independent learning and critical thinking in children.
What are the key benefits of Montessori education?
Montessori education encourages self-directed learning, fostering independence, creativity, and a love for learning. It emphasizes hands-on learning and a holistic approach to education.
How does Montessori differ from traditional schooling?
Unlike traditional schooling, Montessori education focuses on individualized learning, allowing children to learn at their own pace in a prepared environment. The multi age classrooms create leadership skills, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Is Montessori education affiliated with a religion?
No, Montessori education is considered an educational philosophy. Montessori promotes cultural awareness, empathy, and respect for diversity, helping children grow into thoughtful global citizens.
Does your school accept all students?
At Montessori Stepping Stones, we are deeply committed to fostering a community that reflects and honors the diversity of the world we live in. We believe that every child, family, and staff member contribute to the richness of our community. By embracing inclusivity and practicing non-discrimination, we strive to provide a safe, caring, and respectful environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to be their authentic selves. Guided by Montessori principles, we recognize that early experiences shape who we are and influence how we engage with the world. By promoting kindness, teamwork, and mutual respect, we aim to build a community where all individuals can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the greater whole..
Will my child have homework?
We believe in maintaining a healthy balance between school and family life. Instead of traditional homework, we encourage activities like reading books, playing outside, and spending quality time with family.
What type of curriculum do you offer?
Our curriculum includes mathematics, language, science, geography, history, and culture. Our teachers “follow the child” to ensure they understand the material, providing additional instruction as needed. They are constant observers, ensuring each child engages with the material and presenting more challenging work when the child is ready.
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Parent Involvement and Community Engagement
How can parents get involved in the Montessori community?
Parents can participate in various school events, volunteer opportunities, and parent-teacher meetings to stay engaged with their child’s education.
What role do parents play in Montessori education?
Parents are considered part of our community and essential in their child’s education, supporting learning at home and collaborating with teachers to enhance the educational experience.
Are there opportunities for parents to learn about Montessori methods?
Yes, we offer parent education meetings to understand Montessori principles and how they can support their child’s learning at home.
Discover the Montessori Difference
Schedule a tour today to see how our unique approach to early childhood education can benefit your child. Contact us for more information about enrollment opportunities at Montessori Stepping Stones.