Enrollment Montessori School?

Question

My brother wants to enroll his 3 year old son into a private montessori school yet has no idea how to go about doing so. He's a bit weary since his boy is a bit on the rebelious side and is curious if he'll be turned down for that reason.

Can anyone tell me what the enrollment process consists of?

Answer 1

I know for the schools around here, you have to have them evaluated by a particular group of people. The school should give you the information. After the evaluation is done, a meeting is set up between the school and child. I think the child is in a group setting and can not appear to be coached in any way. Some say they are looking for social skills and not so much of knowledge, though I am sure this will help. They should also have a website for the school that should tell of the admissions process.

Answer 2

From the little you've said about your nephew, it sounds like he'd be a good match at a Montessori school.  My son's the same way and he works well with the Montessori style of learning.  

As far as enrollment, that depends on the school.  He shouldn't get turned down for being "rebelious."  Most 3-year-old independent thinkers are "rebelious!"  Tell your brother to call the school and schedule a time to come observe and talk with the teacher/director.  Usually you can bring the child and you'll get a preview of how he'll fit in with the program.   At that time, he can ask all the questions he wants about enrollment.  Tell him to act fast, though.  Preschools (good ones) usually fill up in early spring for the following school year!  

Good luck!

Answer 3

well i don't know where u live, but i work at a montessori school in missouri. here all u have to do is call or come in, tour the place, and fill out some basic info. then if there is and opening available for the days needed, ur child starts. i would suggest he do a little research and find a couple nearby and then call and ask about their enrollment or just go by and take a tour. but don't go between noon and three pm, that is lunch and naptime. the best time to see the place in action is the early morning during 'work time' usually about 9-10 am.

Answer 4

Each Montessori school will have differing enrollment procedures.  Your brother should contact the admissions office of the school(s) and find out what the policies and procedures are.

For instance, the Montessori school were my girls attend does the following,

Each prospective family follows these steps to complete the application process:

1. Parent Visit

Prospective parents are invited and encouraged to tour the school and observe classes. To sign up for one of the bi-weekly Wednesday Open House presentations and tours. The Open House is an opportunity to learn about the school’s Montessori philosophy and curriculum as well as tour the building, observe classes and meet administrative staff. Private tours of the school can also be scheduled directly with the Admissions & Community Relations Director

2. Application

Interested families submit an application for their child along with a $50 non-refundable application fee. Families with children applying to Grades 1-6 will then receive a letter from WMS with a Release of Information form and a teacher recommendation form. Parents will need to give these forms to their child’s current school. The applicant’s current school will send the recommendations, transcript and any standardized testing directly to Wilmington Montessori School .

3. Parent Interview/ Student Visit

The Parent Interview and Student Visit will vary depending on the age of the prospective student:

Applicants to the Infant, Toddler, Preschool and Kindergarten Programs:

Prospective parents and students meet privately with one of the Infant, Toddler or Preschool teachers for an informal discussion of classroom procedures, expectations, and objectives.

Applicants to Grade 1:

Prospective students visit in one of our Kindergarten classrooms for a half-day ( 8:30am - 11:30am) followed by a parent interview with the Educational Director. During their visit, children will have a brief assessment with a staff member.

Applicants to Grade 2-6:

Prospective students visit for a full school day ( 8:15am - 3:00pm) and are evaluated by the Elementary Educational Director. Parents are scheduled for a parent interview with the Educational Director. During their visit, children will have a brief assessment with a staff member.

4.Notification:

Decisions for admission are made on a rolling basis throughout the preceding academic year as spaces are available. Parents will receive a response approxiamtely two weeks after all required application materials have been submitted.

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I wouldn't be too concerned about "rebelliousness".  That can mean a lot of different things for a 3 year old.   And, the Montessori Method is a great way of learning cooperation, independence, and self-reliance all at the same time.

Best wishes.

Answer 5

I think Montessori school should be a good fit.  Usually a good Montessori teacher can help the child work with other children and he would also be able to do what he wants many times.  He will have lots of freedom to try things on his own but he could end up being in a class of 3-5 year olds where he could get help from his peers as well.  What I like about Montessori is that some things just come gradually and they know it and they aren't trying to push kids along until they are ready to go to the next level.  I have a 4 year old who at home wants to do what she wants but at school she is great.  She still tries to manipulate her teachers at times but they help her to do things she doesn't want to do as well.