Commonly Asked Questions
Enrollment and Tours
How can we visit?
Join us at our Open House on Wednesday, November 11, from 10 am to 12 pm, or email school@highlandmontessori.com to set up a private tour. We are now offering tours for the 2027–2028 school year.
Do you have a waitlist?
We use a wait pool rather than a first-come, first-served list. When a space opens, we consider class balance, age, and fit with our community before making an offer.
How do you make enrollment decisions?
As a small school, we have limited openings each year. We give priority to siblings of current students, then look at class balance and at families who share our approach to early childhood.
Do you accept students mid-year?
When space allows, yes, though openings during the year are rare. We offer them to families in our wait pool first.
Our Program
What ages do you serve?
Children ages 2 to 6, including a TK year, so children can stay with us until they are ready for kindergarten.
How many children are there for each teacher?
We keep a ratio of 1:5 to 1:6, so teachers know each child well.
Are you AMS certified?
No. We blend Montessori with Reggio Emilia-inspired project work and play, which does not fit AMS certification. We are working toward NAEYC accreditation.
What are your teachers’ backgrounds?
Most of our teachers hold a bachelor’s degree in child development or early childhood education, and some have formal Montessori training. All complete Montessori training in-house and take part in ongoing professional development.
How do you approach discipline?
We guide children through conflict with connection, not punishment. Instead of time-outs, we use time-ins, calming strategies, and help children repair relationships. Our approach draws on No Drama Discipline by Daniel Siegel and Gentle Discipline by Sarah Ockwell-Smith.
Daily Life
What are your hours?
Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Do you provide food?
We serve two snacks a day, at 10 am and 3 pm. Families send lunch. If your child has allergies or dietary needs, please send safe snacks from home.
When do children rest?
Rest time is from about 1:00 to 2:30 or 3:00 pm. Every child rests for at least 30 minutes. Children who stay awake then move to quiet activities, and if a child falls asleep, we let them sleep.
Does my child need to be potty trained?
Not on the first day. We ask that children be potty trained within the first semester of the school year, and our teachers work closely with you to get there.
Tuition and Payments
How is tuition paid?
Tuition is paid through Brightwheel on the 1st of each month. It is split into 11 equal installments, since we are closed in July.
Do you prorate tuition?
No. Tuition is an annual cost, so absences, vacations, and partial months are not prorated.
Can we split payments or pay by card?
Yes. Brightwheel lets families split invoices between payers and accepts bank transfers, credit cards, and debit cards.
Partnering with Families
How will I know how my child’s day went?
Teachers share photos and updates through Brightwheel throughout the day, and you are always welcome to reach out.
How can families get involved?
Families join school events, share cultural traditions or special talents with the class, and volunteer for celebrations.