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FAQs
Where is Montessori Academy located?
Montessori Academy is located in Brentwood, TN, one mile from the intersection of Old Hickory Blvd. and Edmondson Pike, at 6021 Cloverland Drive. See detailed directions to the school.
What is the Montessori philosophy based on?
The Montessori philosophy is based on the idea that with the proper tools, everyone can develop his potential for creativity, initiative, independence, inner discipline, and self-confidence. Learn more about Maria Montessori and our philosophy.
What ages of children do you accept?
Our school begins accepting children at age 3 and continues through the 6th grade. Read more about our admission policies.
How do I schedule a visit or obtain an application?
Please call 615-833-3610 to schedule a visit. You may also email Helena Hess, at HHess@montessoriacad.org for Elementary information and tours during the school year; or Korine Walther at Kwalther@montessoriacad.org for Primary information or to schedule tours all year round. Small group tours may also be available. At the end of your tour, you can obtain an application.
How much is tuition?
Tuition ranges from $6100 (for half-day pre-kindergarteners) to $6900.
Do you provide care before and after normal school hours?
Yes. Before-care is from 7:30-8:20 a.m. and after-care is from 3:10-6:00 p.m. If this service is required only occasionally, tickets for this purpose can be pre-purchased from the office. For more detailed information, download our dismissal and before/after care policy.
How well do your students transition to a more traditional school setting?
Montessori children are unusually adaptable. They know how to work independently and in groups. They are problem solvers who can make choices and manage their time well. We have received calls from school administrators in our area expressing their admiration and appreciation of the type of students coming out of Montessori Academy.
What values do you teach?
We are a non-sectarian school, but universal spiritual concepts and the richness of religious and cultural diversity are embraced. The love of learning is the core of Montessori values. We believe that an integral component of this core value, however, lies in teaching students to speak and act with kindness, integrity and respect. Students and teachers develop a social contract to create an environment conducive to the development of mutual respect and a good work ethic. Read about our Treasure Chest of Life Skills .
Do you have a dress code or uniform?
Students wear uniforms in the Elementary School (Levels 1-6). This minimizes competition and disruption in the classroom and helps the younger children to get themselves ready in the morning. Each year, we hold used uniform consignment sales at the school.
Does your curriculum meet state standards?
We carry dual accreditations with the American Montessori Society and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Our curriculum meets and exceeds state standards. We administer the Stanford Achievement Tests beginning in the third grade.
Why do you foster a non-competitive environment?
In a Montessori environment, each child is on his or her own diligent educational journey. We believe that there is more joy and growth in cooperative learning than in an atmosphere in which someone has to lose in order for someone else to win. Over the years, we have watched our students develop impressive skills in the areas of persistence, teamwork and leadership. Read about the "Founders of Google?" for testimonials from some celebrities on the positive, life-long effects of the Montessori experience.
What is your practice regarding homework?
In the Lower Elementary area homework is minimal because organizational and time management skills are taught in the classroom. However, we do suggest the following daily activities at home: 30 minutes of shared reading aloud or drilling of spelling words, and/or 20 minutes of drill with mathematics flash cards. Enjoyable reading time is the most important activity. The child should read aloud from a book on his or her reading level and the parent should then read a book that is two or three levels higher. This builds listening skills, excitement, vocabulary and imagination. We also encourage families to share regular silent reading sessions at home.
Upper Elementary students (Levels 4-6) are transitioned into routine homework assignments that involve additional work and/or library research. Organizational and time management skills in the classroom continue to be emphasized. More homework is required as students advance.
How do you utilize computers in the classroom?
Computers are not utilized in the Primary or Lower Elementary (age 3 to Level 3) classrooms. Instead, we emphasize the development of fine motor skills (including tracing shapes, parallel lines, and cursive handwriting) and critical thinking (through working with the Montessori materials). Fourth level students learn computer keyboarding. They learn to do research on World Book Encyclopedia software. Beginning in the fifth level, students may do research on the internet (with appropriate filters in place) and to prepare written assignments in Microsoft Word.
Do students get instruction in art, music, and physical education?
These are included in the curriculum for all students and are taught by teachers specializing in each area. Our music teacher also directs students in choral, band and drama performances each fall and spring. Read about the numerous other enrichment and extra-curricular activities available at Montessori Academy.
Do you have a hot lunch program?
No. Students bring their own lunches and snacks. The school provides milk to be taken with lunch. A leak-proof, thermal Rubbermaid lunch box with a screw-in refreeze pack is issued to each new student. Only nutritious lunches and snacks are allowed at school. Foods requiring microwaving, chips, chewing gum, candy, fruit roll-ups, sugar coated cereals, and iced cakes are not acceptable. All uneaten food and food containers are sent home in the lunch box so that parents know what their children have eaten. |
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