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Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Antiracism at Jarrow “Every child belongs to the community, they actually belong to the whole of humanity. ” - Maria Montessori Belonging at Jarrow At Jarrow Montessori School, we operate with the fundamental understanding that academic excellence cannot exist if a child does not feel safe, affirmed, or included. We endeavor to build a culture where students, families, faculty, and alumni are fully seen, respected, and empowered. We are guided in this continual work by three core tenets: to provide a child-centered, progressive education, to honor our collective responsibility to the community and wider world, and to grow as a community beyond diversity into true belonging . We believe that experiencing belonging within an intentional, supportive space enriches the educational journey for every student, and we commit to actively promoting and sustaining a community that is accepting, inclusive, antiracist, and respectful. Statements of Belief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Statement - Jarrow Montessori School honors and values a learning community with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and traditions. Experiencing and understanding diversity in a safe and positive environment enhances and enriches the educational experience for our children and families. Jarrow Montessori School commits to promoting a community that is accepting, inclusive, and respectful. Gender Diversity - Jarrow Montessori School values an environment that respects and supports all gender identities, expressions, and pathways of development. Experiencing and understanding gender diversity in a safe and positive environment expands empathy and enriches the educational experience for all of our children and families. Jarrow Montessori School commits to promoting a community that is gender-affirming, inclusive, and respectful of every individual's authentic self. Building Inclusive, Antiracist Curriculum - True academic excellence requires a conscious and active opposition to racism, bias, and systemic inequity. Jarrow integrates antiracist and inclusive practices into the daily life of our school, equipping students with the critical thinking and language needed to recognize and confront injustice. We deliberately build an equitable environment where all racial and cultural identities are valued, preparing our children to become compassionate, active agents of change in a diverse world.

Jarrow Montessori School is an accredited, independent school serving students in preschool through Grade 6 in Boulder, Colorado. Nurturing the Human Spirit Welcome to Jarrow About Jarrow At Jarrow Montessori School, we are dedicated to creating a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally. Our commitment to character-based education and innovative programs sets us apart, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their future endeavors. 60 Years of Montessori in Boulder Our Mission Jarrow Montessori School nurtures the development of the whole child through an authentic, high-quality Montessori education. We guide each child on a joyful journey of self-discovery, fostering confident lifelong learners and compassionate citizens within a supportive and inclusive community. Our Programs Toddler Program Learn More Lower Elementary Learn More Primary Program Learn More Upper Elementary Learn More Jarrow at a Glance 1964 Jarrow Montessori School was first Montessori in Colorado. 10 Average years teachers have taught at Jarrow. 3.5 Acres of beautiful, shaded campus in the heart of North Boulder. 22/26 Certified Montessori Teachers on Faculty 185 Jarrow Montessori School students from Toddler through Grade 6. 100% Teacher retention for the 2024 and 2025 school years. 10:1 Our low student-teacher ratio allows for personalized learning in each class. 20% Students at Jarrow receive financial aid to attend. Support Jarrow! Join us for the event of the year to celebrate and support our school! Get Tickets Now! Montessori Matters Answers to common questions about our child-centered, progressive approach to education at Jarrow. View More Learn Connect with Admissions We would love to meet your family and show you our beautiful, 4 acre campus. View More Connect Apply to Jarrow We are accepting applications for the 2027-2028 academic year. View More Apply “Our daughter means the world to us. Not a moment goes by without our first considering what is best for her growth and happiness. When it came time to decide where she was going to spend her days, we decided there was no choice other than Jarrow Montessori. From the moment our daughter enters the school, she enters an environment focused on broadening her mind and enriching her quality of life. The school is devoted to providing her with a well-rounded education by respecting her individuality and treating her with patience, love and respect. When people ask us why we chose Jarrow, we tell them because Jarrow is more than a school; Jarrow is an extension of our family.” Lisa Driver, MI

Tuition & Financial Aid “To assist a child we must provide him with an environment which will enable him to develop freely.” ― Maria Montessori At Jarrow Montessori School, we believe that every child deserves an inspiring, nurturing, and academically rich education. As an independent nonprofit school, our tuition supports the high-quality Montessori programming we provide—led by certified teachers, enriched with hands-on materials, and grounded in a whole-child approach. We offer need-based financial aid to make Jarrow accessible to a diverse community of learners Tuition Structure Jarrow's tuition structure for the 2027-2028 Academic Year can be paid annually, or in monthly installments through your FACTS Family Portal. Financial Aid at Jarrow We understand that investing in an independent education is a significant commitment. Jarrow offers need-based financial aid to support families who might not otherwise be able to access a Montessori education. Our financial aid program is guided by a commitment to equity and sustainability. Applying for Financial Aid: Submit Your Admissions Application Begin the admissions process by completing an application for enrollment. Complete the FACTS Financial Aid Application Jarrow uses FACTS Grant & Aid to assess financial need. Families will be asked to provide financial documents such as tax returns and W-2s. Receive an Aid Award Notification Financial aid awards are offered alongside admissions decisions. All personal financial and aid award information is kept strictly confidential.

Applying to Jarrow “We must look to the children as a vehicle for bringing change to humanity. ” - Maria Montessori Welcome to Jarrow! We are glad you are considering Jarrow Montessori School for your child's education. Our admissions process is designed to help families explore our programs and determine if Jarrow is the right fit for your child and your family. We welcome applications for our Toddler, Primary, and Elementary programs beginning in the 2027-2028 school year. Jarrow is fully enrolled for the 2026-2027 academic year. How to Apply Step 1: Submit an Inquiry Form Begin by completing our Inquiry Form . This allows us to learn more about your family and your interest in Jarrow. After submitting the form, our admissions team will reach out to you to provide additional information and answer any questions you may have. Step 2: Schedule a Tour After submitting the inquiry form, the next step is to schedule a tour of our campus. We offer both virtual and in-person tours to accommodate your preferences. During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to observe our classrooms, meet our educators, learn more about our Montessori approach, and ask questions. Step 3: Complete Your Application Following your tour, you can proceed to complete our Admissions Application . This is done through our FACTS Family Portal. Please note that a non-refundable application fee of $125 is required at the time of submission. The application will ask for detailed information about your child and your family's educational goals, and allow us to learn more about your family. Step 4: Student Visit and Assessment Once we receive your application, we'll schedule a visit for your child to spend time in the classroom. This shadow visit gives applying students the opportunity to experience a typical day and connect with potential classmates, and, it allows our educators to get to know your child's unique strengths and learning style in the Montessori environment. Admissions Decisions At Jarrow Montessori, we maintain an active "wait pool" rather than a traditional first-come, first-served waitlist. Because creating balanced, harmonious classrooms is central to Montessori education, applications are thoughtfully evaluated based on age, gender balance, developmental readiness, and peer group dynamics. When an opening becomes available, our Admissions Team pulls from the entire pool to select the child who best complements the existing classroom mix. The Jarrow Admissions Cycle: December 2026 - Though we review applicants throughout the year, applying by December for the upcoming school year allows your child the best chance of enrollment as we aim to build our classes by the end of January. January 2027 - Re-enrollment takes place for current Jarrow families. January 2027 - Financial aid applications and supporting tax documents are due via the FACTS portal. February 2027 - Admissions offer letters, enrollment contracts, and financial aid award notifications are issued to families. Spring & Summer: Our Admissions Team continues to monitor enrollment levels and reaches back out to the wait pool as mid-season or unexpected openings arise.

Welcome to Jarrow Montessori School! It is a joy to introduce you to our community rooted in purpose, connection, and a deep respect for the potential of every child. Located in North Boulder with two beautiful campuses, surrounded by natural beauty and a spirit of curiosity, Jarrow is a place where children are invited to grow into themselves—capable, compassionate, and engaged with the world around them. At Jarrow, we believe that learning begins within. Our classrooms are thoughtfully prepared to spark independence, creativity, and discovery. Whether a child is immersed in mathematical exploration, refining language skills, caring for their environment, or engaging in collaborative cultural studies, their work is driven by curiosity and guided by experienced, attentive teachers. We value both academic rigor and the deeper work of developing focus, resilience, and a genuine love of learning. For more than 60 years, Jarrow has honored Dr. Maria Montessori’s vision of education as a path toward independence and peace. Our students learn by doing—through hands-on, meaningful experiences that cultivate responsibility, confidence, and a strong sense of self. Just as importantly, they learn to be part of a community: to listen, to contribute, and to care for one another. The strength of Jarrow lies in the partnership between children, educators, and families. Together, we create an environment where each child is known, supported, and inspired. I hope as you explore our website—and especially when you visit our campus—you will feel the warmth, authenticity, and sense of belonging that define our school. We are grateful to share this journey with you. Gavin Green Head of School "Our son started in the Jarrow Montessori Toddler Program at 18 months old. It’s been amazing to watch him grow and thrive in the Montessori setting. He is learning life skills and how to be a caring and considerate person in a fun, safe environment. Jarrow is truly his home away from home. " - Jarrow Parent

History & Campus “To assist a child we must provide him with an environment which will enable him to develop freely.” ― Maria Montessori The Oldest Independent School in Boulder Founded in 1964, Jarrow pioneered child-centered learning as the very first Montessori school in Colorado, born from a group of dedicated founders seeking a high-quality, holistic education for their own children. The school began as a single preschool class of twenty-one students, but enrollment blossomed so rapidly that by 1966, Jarrow invested in its future by moving to its current 3.5-acre campus in North Boulder. This move anchored the school’s role in Colorado’s early independent school movement, proving the viability of a progressive approach that prioritizes the education of the whole child. By its tenth anniversary in 1974, Jarrow expanded again to introduce the region's very first Montessori elementary program, cementing its reputation for authentic, experiential practice and earning prestigious, full accreditation from the American Montessori Society. Today, Jarrow has grown from those original twenty-one students to a thriving community of nearly 200 children, serving toddlers through sixth grade. The school continues to evolve to meet the needs of its students, notably expanding its footprint in 2023 with the purchase of an additional space at 15th and Quince to house the growing Upper Elementary program. Celebrating over six decades of excellence, Jarrow remains a vibrant cornerstone of the Boulder community, cultivating an environment where generations of children discover a lifelong love of learning. Our Founders James Scarritt, Margot Brauchli, Andor Toth, Gary Stahl, Christopher Brauchli, Florence Becker Lennon, Hardy Frank, Prudence Scarritt, James Frank, Margaret Stahl Two Campuses: One Connected Community Main Campus The Heart of Jarrow for our Younger Learners Nestled on 3.5 acres in beautiful North Boulder, Jarrow Montessori School’s main campus offers a secure and inspiring environment designed to foster curiosity and independence for our preschool-third grade students. The main campus features bright, child-centered classrooms each with a dedicated, enclosed outdoor patio and yard, allowing students to transition effortlessly between indoor work and outdoor exploration. We believe our learners learn best in comfortable, beautiful environments and our classrooms are prepared with right sized furnishings, dedicated bathrooms, ergonomic and varied work environments, and calming areas for reading and re-focusing. Beyond our classrooms, every corner of our campus is designed to support hands-on learning, physical movement, and environmental stewardship for our lower school students. We welcome visitors onto our secure campus by scheduling a tour . Main Campus Highlights 3 beautiful outdoor playgrounds for active, age-appropriate play A new all-school amphitheater built in 2025 for community gatherings and performances A multi-purpose / movement room supporting physical activity and group events Dedicated art space where students can express their creativity A flower and vegetable garden where students gain hands-on environmental education. Jarrow East Campus A New Home for our Upper Elementary Students Located just a few blocks from our main site, Jarrow’s new East Campus was purchased in 2024 to provide a dedicated, age-appropriate environment tailored specifically for Upper Elementary students. This expanded facility features larger classrooms and specialized areas designed to support the growing independence and academic needs of older children, and continues to improve with the dedicated support of our teaching and facilities staff, families and alumni. The short, easy walk between campuses maintains a strong sense of unified community across our programs. To make daily routines convenient for parents, families with students at both locations can take advantage of simple single-location drop-off at the main campus; Jarrow staff walk with students over to the East Campus each morning and afternoon. Families interested in our Upper Elementary programs can visit campus by scheduling a tour .

Our Approach “The children of today will make all the discoveries of tomorrow.” ― Maria Montessori What is Montessori? At its heart, the Montessori educational approach is an education for life—one that respects the individuality of each child and nurtures their natural curiosity. Developed over a century ago by Dr. Maria Montessori, this approach to learning empowers children to become independent thinkers, confident problem-solvers, and compassionate members of their communities. The Legacy of Dr. Maria Montessori Maria Montessori was an Italian physician, educator, and innovator—one of the first female doctors in Italy—who dedicated her life to understanding how children learn. Through careful scientific observation, she discovered that when children are given the freedom to explore in a thoughtfully prepared environment, they learn more deeply, joyfully, and meaningfully. Her methods were revolutionary, yet grounded in profound respect for the child as a whole person. Child-Centered, Progressive Education Montessori honors the child’s innate desire to learn and supports it through hands-on materials, uninterrupted work periods, and mixed-age classrooms that foster mentorship and collaboration. Children move through the curriculum at their own pace, gaining mastery and confidence as they go. Rather than being driven by tests or grades, Montessori students are motivated by a deep sense of purpose and joy in their accomplishments. All About Montessori: Frequently Asked Questions Families newer to Jarrow’s Montessori curriculum often arrive with questions about how our approach differs from “traditional” education, and how it supports their child’s growth and development. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear. What makes a Montessori classroom different from a traditional classroom? 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. How does a Montessori approach support social and emotional learning? 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. Is Jarrow Montessori School an accredited school? 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. In Montessori classrooms, can children just do whatever they want? 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. Does a Montessori approach have enough academic rigor? 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. Is Montessori only for preschoolers? 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. How do children transition to traditional secondary schools after Montessori elementary school? 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.

2026-2027 Calendar

Upper Elementary Program "Within the child lies the fate of the future.” - Maria Montessori Critical Thinking, Leadership & Social Responsibility Ready to deepen your child’s love of learning and prepare them for a confident, self-directed future? In our Upper Elementary classrooms, students thrive in an intellectually rich, supportive environment designed to cultivate critical thinking, collaboration, and personal responsibility. Our student-centered community fosters deep academic exploration while guiding children through the vital social, emotional, and leadership skills needed for middle school and beyond. Exploration and Independence Upper Elementary students develop greater reasoning skills, a deeper understanding of abstract concepts, and stronger peer relationships. They are capable of complex work, often engaging in long-term projects and real-world applications. Students dive into advanced academics and community projects, preparing for adolescence with purpose and reflection. Mixed-age classrooms still foster peer learning, collaboration, and confidence, allowing children to learn from and support one another as they advance into deeper study of the world around them. Every activity is purposeful, guiding children to become independent, capable, and joyful adolescents. Upper Elementary Curriculum At Jarrow, our Upper Elementary curriculum inspires older students to dive deeply into rigorous academic subjects through self-directed, inquiry-based learning. Integrated studies across mathematics, language arts, sciences, and cultural subjects encourage children to think critically and connect abstract concepts to the real world. By balancing collaborative group projects with individual responsibility, the curriculum empowers students to master essential academic skills while developing the leadership and independence needed for middle school and beyond. Curriculum Areas: Advanced math: decimals, percentages, pre-algebra, and geometry Literature and writing: analysis, creative writing, essays, and presentations Science: Chemistry, physics, ecology, and inquiry-based experiments History and civics: Civilizations, government, ethics, and current events Leadership and community service experiences Research & service: long-term, interdisciplinary projects Choosing Jarrow means your older student will maintain a strong community where they are known and well supported in becoming an independent thinker, grow in confident communication, and become a responsible community member, led by our Jarrow values. The Capstone Year: 6th Grade in a Montessori Classroom The sixth year in a Jarrow’s Upper Elementary program is a transformational and culminating experience. Often referred to as the capstone year, 6th grade offers students the chance to consolidate their academic knowledge, deepen their personal development, and step confidently into adolescence as capable, thoughtful individuals. Having spent years building critical thinking, independence, and a sense of purpose, sixth graders are uniquely poised to take full advantage of the leadership opportunities, rigorous academic challenges, and real-world connections that define this final year. Why 6th Grade Matters in Montessori: Leadership and Responsibility: Sixth-year students serve as role models and mentors to younger classmates. They lead group projects, facilitate classroom routines, and often support peer learning, all of which reinforce confidence and accountability. Academic Depth and Independence: At this stage, students take on more advanced work in math, literature, research writing, and the sciences. They are encouraged to follow their curiosity and complete long-term, interdisciplinary projects—learning how to organize, manage, and present complex ideas. Social-Emotional Growth : The sixth-grade year supports emerging adolescents through respectful guidance, space for reflection, and meaningful collaboration. Montessori emphasizes grace, courtesy, and open dialogue—skills that serve students well in their teenage years and beyond. Real-World Application : Capstone experiences such as business ventures, service learning, or extended outdoor/environmental trips give students opportunities to apply their knowledge, solve problems, and see themselves as contributors to their communities. Choosing to remain at Jarrow for the 6th grade gives your child the gift of a final year in a nurturing, academically rich environment—one that honors their development and empowers them to step into middle school with confidence, compassion, and a strong sense of self. "I’m just finishing up my year of training to get my license to teach elementary school, and it’s made me do a lot of reflecting on my own education as a kid. Looking back, the connection you made with me in Sr. El was one of the main reasons I decided to become a teacher, so I want to thank you for that. Making sincere and honest connections with students is the most important part of my own teaching philosophy, and I just wanted to express to you how much you influenced forming that part of me." - Jarrow Alum

Toddler Program From the earliest days of life, the youngest among us are accorded with measures of commitment and esteem that echo our deepest understanding of respect.” - Maria Montessori A Joyful, Nurturing Introduction to Montessori Education At Jarrow Montessori School, we honor the unique spirit of our youngest learners (Ages 18 months-3 years) — a time of deep curiosity, connection to the natural world, and joyful movement. Our thoughtfully prepared toddler environments are designed to support each child's innate desire to explore, make meaningful choices, and move freely within a calm and inviting space. Within this gentle structure, children naturally begin to engage with others and grow into confident members of our school community. When your family joins our Jarrow family, you enter a community where meaningful bonds and lifelong friendships naturally grow. Montessori Toddler Communities Our Toddler communities are calm, inviting spaces designed just for young children, with low shelves, natural materials, and child-sized furniture. Here, toddlers safely explore their drive to “do it myself,” building independence, confidence, and joy in discovery. Teachers—loving, nurturing, and trained in child development—guide children gently as they develop foundational life skills, language, and movement. Daily routines like washing hands, preparing food, and caring for the classroom foster self-reliance, while story time, songs, and rich conversations build vocabulary and communication. With cozy nap areas, opportunities for movement, and child-sized tables for shared meals, every part of the environment supports the toddler’s growth. In these spaces, curiosity, wonder, and independence come alive. Toddler Curriculum The first three years of life are a time of extraordinary growth, when children absorb knowledge from every experience and lay the foundation for all future learning. Maria Montessori called this the “unconscious absorbent mind” — a stage when young children take in everything around them effortlessly, much like a sponge. Our toddler program (18 months–3 years) is designed to nurture this natural process by fostering independence, curiosity, and joy. Toddlers are driven to “do it myself,” building the beginnings of movement, language, personality, and a sense of self. In a safe, loving, and orderly environment, children explore freely, practice new skills, and develop confidence, autonomy, and a strong sense of belonging. The Absorbent Mind In the Montessori toddler classroom, every activity has a purpose. Children learn through hands-on experiences that encourage: Practical Life Skills – Toddlers practice everyday activities like washing hands, pouring water, preparing snacks, and caring for their classroom. These small tasks foster independence and pride. Language Growth – Through stories, songs, conversations, and naming objects in their environment, children expand vocabulary and develop a love for language. Movement & Coordination – Children strengthen both fine motor skills (using puzzles, stacking, sorting) and gross motor skills (climbing, balancing, exploring outdoors). Sensorial Exploration – Activities that engage touch, sight, sound, taste, and smell help toddlers make sense of the world around them. Social & Emotional Development – Grace and courtesy lessons, along with plenty of opportunities for collaboration, help toddlers learn kindness, empathy, and respect for others. Creativity & Nature – Daily experiences with art, music, and time outdoors allow children to express themselves and connect with the natural world. Most importantly, toddlers discover how capable they truly are—developing focus, independence, and joy in learning. More Montessori Learn more about your toddler's development and curriculum from the American Montessori Society's early childhood education content. Learn More Daily Rhythms in the Toddler Classroom Jarrow's Toddler program is a 5-days-per-week program that spans the academic year. Half day and full day programs are offered. The half-day program is 8:30-11:45, while the full-day program is 8:30-3:15. There is no extended care offered at this time. Our toddler schedule supports the development of independence and security, creating daily and weekly learning rhythms in each classroom. Our toddler students enjoy daily outdoor time, independent play, and whole-class art, music, language, and movement. Toddler Classroom Schedule Our Toddler classrooms enjoy daily indoor and outdoor work time, a snack and lunch, and weekly music and movement with our Jarrow staff. 8:30-8:45: Drop Off 8:45-11:15: Indoor and Outdoor Work Cycle, including Morning Meeting, toileting as needed, free choice time, morning snack, and Specials with our Music and Gym teachers. 11:15-11:30: Daily walk around campus 11:45-12:00: Half-Day children go home 12:00-12:45: Lunch / Toileting 12:45 -2:30: Nap Time (Children nap on mats or cots in the classroom) 2:30- 3:00: Toileting and preparing to go home 3:15-3:30: Pick-Up "Our son started in the Jarrow Montessori Toddler Program at 18 months old. It’s been amazing to watch him grow and thrive in the Montessori setting. He is learning life skills and how to be a caring and considerate person in a fun, safe environment. Jarrow is truly his home away from home." - Jarrow Toddler Parent