Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952) was an Italian physician, professor, intellectual, and full-time educator who dedicated her career to serving Rome's poorest citizens. In 1907, she founded her first school in Rome and then traveled extensively to share her knowledge about effective ways of teaching children that reflect how they naturally learn. Read more about Dr. Montessori. Today, there are more than 22,000 Montessori schools all over the world. The Montessori Method is based on Maria Montessori's philosophy of following the child rather than dictating lessons. It is very different from traditional schools, which were created during the industrial revolution, but is every bit as rigorous in education and emphasizes personal enrichment. Learn more about Montessori education.

Unlike some private schools, which strive for very small classes, Montessori values the lessons of community when the size of the class is somewhat larger. Montessori classes for children above the toddler level might include 20 or more students whose ages span 2-3 years. All members of the community benefit from this set-up. Older students are proud to act as role models, while younger ones gain confidence and feel supported. Toddler classes are smaller, with typically 10–15 children. At CCM, our class size reflects these averages. We currently have 24 children in the Butterfly classes (with 3 teachers) and up to 15 in the Bullfrog classes (with 2 teachers).

Montessori schools teach the same basic skills as traditional schools, and offer a rigorous academic program. While the subject areas are familiar (i.e., math, science, history, geography, language), they are presented through an integrated approach that brings separate strands of the curriculum together. For example, while studying a map of North America students may explore the art, history, and culture of several native tribes. This may lead them to learn more about buffalo and the prairie, including ecosystems. Learn more about Montessori education.

When you first contacts us, we talk with you to find out more about the ages and interests of your children. Then we schedule a tour between the parents and our Director, allowing plenty of time to see the classrooms and ask questions. If the Director and parents feel that the school and the child are a good fit, simply turn in a completed application and application fee. If there is an opening, your child can start right away. If not, we will place the child our waiting list to secure a spot for them once it becomes available. See Enrollment.

Shorter programs are often attractive to parents who do not need full-time care; however, our 4- and 5-day programs (5 days is mandatory for Kindergarten and up) create the consistency that is so important to young children, and is essential in developing strong Montessori programs. This is especially true for preschool children who thrive in structured environments. The primary goal of Montessori education involves creating a culture of consistency, order, and empowerment, so it's typical for most Montessori students to attend five days a week.

The short answer is, Biblical teaching and principles are integrated into nearly everything we do. Some examples include daily prayer before lunch, memorizing Bible verses, learning songs about Jesus, and writing practice that sometimes includes Bible phrases or Biblical concepts. That being said, the Christian aspect of our environment is always invitational, never obligational. We also welcome everyone to attend our school. See our Non-Discrimination Policy.

We understand that a family's needs change for a number of reasons, so we do not require a long-term contract. Instead, our policy is that parents must notify us in writing at least 30 days in advance to avoid additional charges.

By the end of age five, Montessori children are normally curious, self-confident learners who look forward to going to school! They are normally engaged, enthusiastic learners who want to learn and ask excellent questions. In fact, many famous people got their start in Montessori such as the founders of Google and Facebook!