Frequently Asked Questions

For children six and under, Montessori engages all five senses — not just listening or watching. Children learn at their own pace, choosing from hundreds of purposeful activities introduced one-to-one by a guide who knows exactly what each child is ready for. Learning becomes a process of discovery that builds concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and a genuine love of learning. Above age six, children pursue independent research, field trips, interviews, presentations, and projects — with no textbooks or rigid daily schedule — yet easily keep up with or surpass traditional peers. Much of the learning comes from children inspiring one another rather than competing.

Multi-age classrooms let us adapt the curriculum to each individual child, who works at their own pace while remaining part of a peer community. They also give every older child — even the quiet ones — a chance to lead.

Montessori is designed to help every child reach their fullest potential at their own pace. A classroom of varying abilities becomes a community where everyone learns from one another — and mixed-age grouping means no child feels "ahead" or "behind."

The Montessori method itself is secular — it's taught without reference to any religious denomination, which is part of why Montessori classrooms are so wonderfully diverse. St. Peter's is an Episcopal school, so we add gentle faith formation and a weekly chapel led by our chaplain — while warmly welcoming children and families of every faith, culture, and background.

The term "Montessori" isn't trademarked, so anyone can open a school by that name regardless of training or affiliation. That's why it's important to look for authenticity — a genuine connection to Dr. Montessori's original methods and materials.

Two organizations are widely regarded as the standard: AMI (Association Montessori Internationale), founded by Dr. Montessori herself, and AMS (American Montessori Society), which branched from AMI in 1960. For a high-fidelity program, look for a school connected to AMI or AMS. St. Peter's is a member of AMI, with AMI-trained guides.

Not at all. Montessori is best known for its early-childhood programs, but the method extends all the way through high school.

Montessori children choose within limits, with only as much freedom as they can handle responsibly. The guide and assistant make sure each child keeps progressing at an appropriate pace across every subject.

A Montessori classroom is literally child-centered. Instead of desks facing a teacher, children work at tables or on floor mats where they can spread out their materials, while the guide circulates — giving lessons and helping as needed.

Yes. Montessori encourages deep understanding of the concepts behind academic skills rather than rote practice — and our alumni go on to compete successfully with traditionally educated peers in high schools and universities.

Montessori emphasizes competition with oneself — self-monitoring, self-correction, and continuous improvement. Students grow comfortable with their strengths and learn to address their weaknesses. In older classes, they also take part in healthy competitive activities with clear winners — auditions, spelling bees — giving their best while cheering on their peers.

Because interest in our program is high, tours are by appointment only. We're always glad to answer general questions by phone, and you can schedule a tour online.

Both parents, when possible. The initial tour is for adults only; your child will have a chance to visit the classroom and meet the teacher at a later date.

Yes, typically — depending on the program.

As early as possible — we encourage families to apply ahead.

Yes, you're welcome to request a specific teacher or classroom. We try to accommodate requests, though we can't guarantee placement.

Depending on the openings available, our goal is to balance each classroom by the age and gender of the children.

Yes — a 10% tuition discount for the second child.

Yes — a tuition discount for children of active-duty U.S. military families. See our Military Families page for full details.