Huuuu... I hate to do this because for the most part, the teachers are generally pretty nice; but in terms of programming... let's just say that my kids were behind when I moved them to new schools. The Breakdown:
Learning: so during the pandemic... well even before the pandemic when my oldest attended you couldn't just roll up in the class to observe. From what I was able to observe through ZOOM on Wednesday's when my youngest attended, I don't like the "learning" that's taking place. My 2.5 yo is roaming around the class from table to table where they have different activities they can engage in on their own. While I appreciate the school allowing my child to gravitate to things she enjoys; I'm not sure she's learning anything. In fact, I'm quite sure she's not prepared for what's to come at her new school, which she will be attending at the time I post this review. Because this class is from 18 mo to 3 (too far of a gap), from what I viewed each Wednesday, the teacher(s) spend a lot of time correcting behavior, guiding, etc the younger kids. The older kids (mine and any other 2ish to 3 yo are left to just.... "play". Yes, this is a part of learning, and at this age kids should have fun; but my child was learning phonics at 1ish and this school does not foster this type of learning at such a young age.
Needless to say, my child wasn't prepared for her new school, where the 3 yo are already writing and starting to read.
Lunch/Snack: EVERY. SINGLE. TIME I picked my kid up (she attended half the day), her lunch bag was in disarray. I mean containers were half opened, so any leftover food was spilling out into the bag. The bottom of the bag is all sticky and nasty. Sigh.
Teachers: My daughter really loved her teacher Ms. Francy. I can at least say that about the teachers my girls had when they attended here. Mrs. Fre was also really nice and caring and Ms. Courtney was very helpful and forthcoming with tips, especially while my child was struggling with bowel movements for a long time. We finally got that under control. They were all very sweet and even gave her the cutest going away gifts. I really appreciate that.
Montessori Approach: While the school does work with you when it comes to potty training, independence, etc... it's just not enough for me to love this school like I used to. Only now was I able to actually "see" inside a classroom and now realize that and truly understand that the Montessori approach just doesn't work for us. I understand the philosophy and the approach and can appreciate some aspects of this; however, even after speaking to a few parents that have their kids still attending after my oldest has already left, feel like they are ready to move on as well.
I can say Montessori gets you to a certain point when your child is very young, I'd say infant to 2 yo. After that, if you're into safety, independence, cleanliness, discovery phase; this is school is definitely for your child. If you want more in terms of education; you may want to check out other schools. It'll be a difficult process; however, it's worth it if you believe your child is a little more advanced, like my youngest is.
Also, research just doesn't really support how well kids in Montessori do later on in life. I had to scour the web to find some info on how well they do if kids transfer out of Montessori schools, how well they do on tests, etc. I have my own beliefs on the positives of this approach for kids; however, it's just not enough to keep me there... especially for how much I'm paying. I feel like I'd need to do way more work at home.
Turnover/Communication: Lastly, the administration and teachers have changed so much. Although the communication hasn't. In my 2019 review I commented on the communication and it hasn't changed. Towards the end of removing my child from the school, I made sure I gave ample notice... more than a month to ensure I understood not necessarily the written policy, but any changes that may be in place b/c of COVID. This turned out well after some back and forth with the school; however, it could have all been avoided if ALL of my questions (only 2) were addressed in the written communication I sent to the director. I won't go into details; but this is why I also tell everyone, when it comes to money or anything else you value... get it in writing.
I see much hasn't changed when it comes to communication.
All in all... this school is expensive still but great for up to 2 yo. After that, you're better off seeking an alternative if you're child is already into reading/writing. read more