Our family has had a great experience with Guidepost. The ages they cater to, primarily 3-6,…read morereally benefit from the cross-pollination with the different age groups. Almost immediately, my daughter shadowed older kids and picked up the alphabet, reading, math all with the self-driven and collaborative work environment. When we visited it seemed like absurdly structured chaos but the structure has transcended from the classroom into our home. Our daughter puts away her dishes, says thank you, says grace before meals, and has manners we know are fostered at Guidepost. We have connected with like-minded parents and truly are optimistic about the trajectory she is on after several years here.

I see people write this frequently where I wish I can give no stars. We are no longer at this…read morelocation but I would delete my previous review when was nearly 4 years ago. They were amazing then and now with a new head for a year all students have left for harassment issues, poor care of children, and confrontation with parents. Most of the guides have left too.

The teachers in the Spring-Mar Cooperative Preschool are wonderful. They create a warm, structured…read moreenvironment where kids feel safe and supported. Communication with parents is consistent and thoughtful, and it's clear they genuinely care about each child. Our daughter talks about her teachers (Ms. Claire, Ms. Alison, Ms. Patti, Ms. Cooper, Ms. Laura, Ms. Liza, and Ms. Mitcho) at home all the time, which says everything.

Our two kids both loved Spring-Mar and their teachers. It's such a warm, nurturing environment and…read morewe trusted that our kids were provided with the best care. As a parent, it was great to co-op (help) in their class: it's a great chance to see your kids interacting with other kids, teachers, and helpers. Their play-based learning approach is great--at that age, learning to play with peers, and act out what it would be like in a role, is more helpful than rushing to teach academic skills. It's also nice to join a community of like-minded families. Our kids are in mid-late elementary school and we still use Spring-Mar phrases like "walking feet!" (walk, don't run) with them.

We have had two children at Hope Montessori, starting when my daughter was 2 and we kept her there…read morethrough kindergarten. We plan on keeping my son there as well through kindergarten. The staff is wonderful, loving, and nurturing and our kids have learned SO much! They also have before and after care that you only pay for what you need. I can't give enough praise for the teachers and staff. If you are looking for a home for your kids, this is the place!

Absolutely amazing school. The teachers here are top-notch, first rate. I could not be happier with…read morethe education my twins are receiving. Highly highly recommend. The teachers are exceptional, abundant with feedback, and great communicators. I love this school- had heard great things but being there has really exceeded my expectations. The kids are so thrilled to go to school every day. Great after care program as well.

MSO was my son's first school, where he attended from age 3 until kindergarten for three years…read more All the staff are so lovely and caring toward each child. We had such a wonderful experience here, my son felt so loved that he still misses this school! They focus a lot on hands which really helped my son develop his sensory skills and fine motor muscles. I highly recommend this school to anyone looking for a true Montessori education for their child.

I couldn't have asked for better lead and support for my child's learning and development for the…read morelast 3 years. My daughter has been flourishing in this lovely environment with dedicated teachers. The Head of school, Mrs. Linke is still teaching in a Primary classroom and exudes great passion for children as an educator. The rest of the teachers are also very knowledgeable, kind, and gentle. If you are looking for a Montessori school and don't know the difference between AMI and AMS, I recommend you to search before making a decision because there is a big difference in the way teachers are trained and the training period that differentiates teacher quality in my opinion. MSO is one of the very few AMI certified schools and they really strive for providing authentic Montessori learning experience. I highly recommend you to look into this school and have a tour.

A team of caring and intelligent educators and leaders. We…read morehave been at The Springs for near a year now. We started the application process pre COVID and entered during the summer program which secured our slot for the fall, so my experience is limited to the Toddler Program (my child started at 22 months old) during the pandemic. For background, I have had my now toddler in a chain daycare (Kindercare) and a great in home daycare but those are true daycares vs a Montessori school so they are completely incomparable. I only have laudatory remarks about the professionalism and care of The Springs. Mr. Dan, The Head of School (HoS), and Ms. Katelyn the Assistant HoS are absolute leaders. Incredibly responsive to any request and communicative on all aspects of the school, I trust their judgment and appreciate all the efforts to remain operational during COVID. Our teacher Ms. Katelyn D., and her assistant teachers Ms. Belkin and Ms. Ethel are amazing with the children and my tot is THRIVING! I have sent emails late on a Friday or Saturday night to Ms. Katelyn D.,not expecting a response until the next working day, only to find a reply in my inbox within hours. Professional and dedicated, I feel a sense of team between the educators and parents as all focus is on the child. The Springs Montessori has me a true believer in the Montessori methods and although yes, it is more expensive than the other daycares my peace of mind for the well being of my child and results of my happy kiddo worth the price tag. Some perks: -A daily report of diaper changes/ what was eaten/ nap length so you can plan your evening -Catered lunches- no oops I forgot the lunch box on the table moments, such a time saver -Parent teacher conferences- yes for a TWO year old, it's awesome -Weekly photos of your child engaging in activities at school -virtual learning options -online portal to track your child's milestones and communicate on routine admin requirements Things to consider: -It's a school, not a day care, school schedules include seasonal breaks -when things get back to normal the kids wear a uniform, I love this but it does add cost -the parking lot is not great, it's busy! Between the parking lot and COVID mitigation, allot extra time for drop off/ pick up Bottom line- I love this school and my child loves this school too.

Would not recommend. They were not very approachable and do not try to work with the parent. They…read morewould always call me wanting me to pick up my child, because they claimed my child had a tummy ache or was sick. Upon arrival my child was completely fine. I was told once my child had pink eye. After picking them up, my child's eyes were NORMAL. Took them to the pedi. just in case, and was told nothing was wrong with their eyes. Not worth the crazy amount of tuition they charge. Find somewhere else, you DO NOT GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR.

I had my child here for one whole year but unfortunately we had to move why I couldn't have my…read moredaughter there twice. I loved the unique learning method that worked best for her. She has been ahead of fellow classmates. The playground in the spacious backyard is perfect for little kids to run up their energy. Ms. Thea has been a very understanding and attentive to our child. Her space is very warm & inviting to children. Her decorations around the room changes with the learning theme they are on at the time. It's different from most aces that are boring and business office environment. Since I have moved out of the area i have recommended many friends to go to Appletree. Thank you for all your hard work Ms. Thea!!!

We started our 3 year old there a few weeks ago and are super impressed with Ms. Thea and her…read morestaff, and the entire operation there. Our son was previously at (arguably) the best pre-k school in Indianapolis and we were concerned we'd be able to find a similar quality school here in NoVA, or at least one that had a reasonable wait list. We feel like we found a real gem at Appletree Montessori, which currently has a few more openings for kids aged 3-5 years old. You can find out more about the school here: https://www.appletreemontessoriva.com/

Our preschooler is flourishing at Adat Reyim Pre-School. The school has provided a loving and safe…read moreenvironment that has fueled learning. The school incorporates some of the best features of Reggio Emillia and Montessori approach to learning. There is such a strong culture of social education - kids learning how to interact kindly and pro-socially with one another. The teachers (Ms Maria and Ms Allison) are wonderful and warm. You can tell that they really do care about the kids. The student-teacher ratio is fabulous so there's always an adult to lead a project, help, encourage when needed. They really view each child as special and give them the attention that they need. The head of school, Ms Heather is excellent and professional. She truly prioritizes the school-family partnership, and is always working with families. They were all so helpful and gracious about our request regarding our child's snack. We would highly recommend this school to families looking for excellent teachers and a close-knit school community.

A wonderful pre school environment for young families! The teachers truly care about the kids.read more

My 2 children have been attending this school since they were 2.5 y/o. They are now 4.5 y/o. MSHR…read moreis absolutely wonderful. Ms. Ling, the administrator, is the ultimate professional and the school is very well run. I love the ease-of-access to direct communication with the administrators and teachers. I don't have to leave endless voice messages that go unanswered and every response is super timely. My kids were in Lavender and Ocean. They are the same age and I was nervous to separate them, but Ms. Christy (head of school) encouraged me that this was the right decision. Ms. Jharna and Ms. Michelle have fostered the growth of each child in a loving and attentive way. EVERY ONE of the staff there seem to genuinely care for the children. Academically, I believe the Montessori was worked best for my kids. I highly recommend this school to any parent.

My daughter attended Holmes Run Montessori starting at three years old and until kindergarten,…read morealmost three years. It's a wonderful school. The teachers are exceptional. They are loving and caring and skilled at fostering a calm environment conducive to learning. My daughter had a wonderful teacher, Ms. Jharna, for three years. What a blessing to have that stability in her little life. I will be forever grateful for her. My daughter learned to read and write early, but more importantly has developed a curiosity about learning new things and enjoys science experiments, museums, nature We met wonderful friends and enjoyed the school community. I highly recommend this school.

My 5 year old started at their Montessori school last summer at 4 and is making progress …read more What I do like about the school: small classes, uniforms, structure and safety montessori curriculum in the pre - kindergarten student and teacher diversity Social-emotional Social-Emotional Development family activities throughout the school year personalize support impressive language arts and social studies in the upper levels student engagement in all levels I love Ms Williams at the kindergarten level . She's an excellent example of what a teacher should be. What I'm still on the fence about is sciences and math curriculum especially at the upper level grades No Stem program technology use for students No PTO for parent input and support Building is dated Guidelines Parent- Student handbook need to be updated to reflect the current owners/administration. Would I recommend? Definitively for the pre and kindergarten Montessori program . Students will leave here much more advanced than their peers.

I regret enrolling my daughter here. Despite committing early (touring in Feb 2024, paying a…read moredeposit, and submitting all forms), the school's lack of communication, disorganization, and disregard for basic safety and hygiene created a deeply frustrating and emotionally exhausting year. From misplaced incident reports and unaddressed injuries, to administrative errors and tone-deaf leadership, this school consistently failed to provide a safe, transparent, and developmentally supportive environment. My daughter came home with swollen lips, unexplained bruises, missing shoes, and stories of peer mistreatment -- with no formal documentation provided, despite repeated requests. These were not isolated events; I have video/photo documentation, and other parents voiced similar concerns in meetings. The director's conduct was both inappropriate and hypocritical -- once sending me a photo of my 3-year-old with paper in her mouth and demanding I "talk to her about telling the truth" over a harmless joke (gum from dad), while gaslighting parents about emails that were never sent. We were made to feel like the problem, when in reality the school's tech systems, operations, and staffing plans were simply broken. Staffing was unstable -- the lead teacher left for maternity leave with no real succession plan. Parents were informed of changes through hallway gossip before any official notice. Other red flags included: * Poor nap hygiene (child's skin broke out); * No proper underwear/clean clothes sent home; * Unsafe food handling policies; * Lost orthopedic shoes due to mishandling after an accident -- only replaced after escalation; * Inconsistent behavioral reporting, with my child being singled out for normal 3-year-old behavior, while aggressive peer behavior went unaddressed all year. The school showed a lack of respect for working parents, sending critical updates (like school closures) late at night and offering no accessible options for required events (no childcare, no virtual options, last-minute notices). They ran meetings on free Zoom accounts that cut off mid-call, used free Gmail accounts, and misunderstood basic tools like unlisted YouTube links. My concerns were dismissed, incident reports were never filed, and when I reported this to the county, I was told it was "too late." Given how long and hard I tried to resolve these issues internally -- and my documentation of events -- this only added to the heartbreak. In hindsight, I should have trusted my gut and pulled my child out much earlier. If you're a parent considering this school, please ask hard questions about staff turnover, behavior policies, safety reporting, and operational transparency. And if something feels off -- trust yourself.