Montessori classrooms are multi-age communities where students learn from and with one another. Rather than desks in rows and predominantly whole-group, teacher-directed lessons, you’ll see students working independently or in small groups with specialized learning materials as well as whole-group morning meetings, enrichment classes, and outdoor play. Teachers are guides who follow the child’s interests and readiness, encouraging exploration and self-direction within an age-appropriate curriculum. 

A foundational part of the Montessori curriculum is what we call Grace and Courtesy - intentional lessons in empathy, conflict resolution, respectful communication, and community living. Children in all of our classrooms learn how to greet others, offer help, express feelings appropriately, and care for shared spaces. Jarrow students create classroom Peace Promises, celebrate International Peace Day with their families, and have regular Grace and Courtesy lessons interwoven into the core curriculum. The result is a calm, respectful classroom culture where each child feels seen, heard, and valued.

Yes. Jarrow Montessori is a fully accredited member of the American Montessori Society (AMS), one of the leading organizations overseeing Montessori education in the United States. AMS accreditation signifies that our school meets rigorous standards for authentic Montessori practice, curriculum, teacher preparation, governance, and child safety. As an accredited independent school, we are committed to both excellence in education and the principles that define true Montessori learning.

No. Children in a Montessori classroom have freedom, but it’s freedom within structure. Students choose their work from carefully curated materials and activities appropriate to their developmental level—but they are guided by trained teachers who support focus, responsibility, and respectful behavior. The teacher is also tracking that children work with all areas of the curriculum, ensuring the necessary knowledge and skills are built at each level. The environment is calm, purposeful, and highly intentional and includes whole-group learning, small group work, and independent focus throughout the school day. 

Yes. Montessori students often work beyond traditional grade levels in math, science, language, and cultural studies because they are given the opportunity to move forward when they are ready. The hands-on materials support a deep understanding of complex concepts, and the approach emphasizes critical thinking, independence, and mastery rather than rote memorization or test performance. Our Jarrow students test on average 2 to 6 grade levels above their national peers, or in the 90+% percentile by 6th grade.

Not at all. While Montessori education is well known for its early childhood programs, the method is designed to support learning from infancy through adolescence. At Jarrow, the Montessori philosophy informs every stage of a child’s growth—from their first steps in the Toddler classroom through the end of their elementary education. The curriculum and values are cumulative, each year building on previous years and internalizing in the child.

Montessori students tend to transition smoothly to traditional settings because they are confident, organized, adaptable, and capable of independent thought. They’re used to managing their time, working respectfully with peers, and approaching challenges with curiosity. These life skills serve them well in any learning environment. Our Jarrow graduates transition to a wide variety of local independent schools, public and charter schools, and high schools nationwide - see our Portrait of a Jarrow Graduate and Schedule a Tour to hear more about our Jarrow graduates.