Creative Montessori School

My child has really thrived in this school (upper elementary level). PROS: they teach intellectual curiosity and self-determination. They allow children to progress pretty much at their own pace and work on their own projects but encourage them to help each other at times and have group projects and presentations. They go above and beyond the state curriculum, teaching kids how to learn, study and problem-solve - NOT just facts and figures. I particularly love the goal setting every 2 wks or so. (They set their goals in all areas and then they reflect upon how they met those goals - all this with the guidance and feedback of the teacher.) I feel like it's good preparation for real life! CONS: parent-teacher communication (by phone & email) is really not great, but there are 2 P-T meetings during the year. They tend to over-communicate about events and fundraisers (probably this is coming from parent/community members) and under-communicate when it comes to replying to particular questions or requests. It is not cheap, but it's reasonable as compared to the other area private schools and a far greater value than many.
—Submitted by a parent

I have two children in the preschool and couldn't be happier. The teachers are fantastic and unbelievably dedicated to the children. I am amazed at my 5 year old's understanding of math and only wish I could have had this type of education as a child. Most importantly, my children are developing a love of learning in an environment rich in diversity. They love to independently work through the lessons. I highly recommend this school to anyone looking for an excellent Montessori education.
—Submitted by a parent

This school has gone downhill over the years. The school is clearly struggling while surrounding schools flourish and expand. Their parent communication is legendarily bad. Their facilities are decapitated with kids walking by dying roaches. They clearly need new leadership.
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers and the ciriculum. Both outstanding!
—Submitted by a parent

Low teacher-student radio. Individualized instruction. Students work at their own pace. Wonderful, dedicated teachers
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers and cirruculum are great and the children enjoy learning

The teachers! They make it so fun to lean. Both of my children love to go to school.
—Submitted by a parent

Talented and empathetic teachers make this an amazing place for my son to grow.
—Submitted by a parent

Creative Montessori is an amazing private school with very dedicated and hardworking staff. Previous to starting Creative Montessori, my child had never been to any type of daycare, nursery, or school setting, and the staff at Creative Montessori have been wonderful at helping her not only adjust but thrive. She loves going to school and looks forward to it each morning. The children learn responsibility, a variety of skills, French, and the staff stresses respect of others and the environment. The students work at their own pace, and the teachers contexualize the learning process. The classroom is an organized and clean space that welcomes and encourages the students to engage. Everything is hands-on, and we are very proud and pleased to have our child attend CMS!
—Submitted by a parent

I love Creative Monterossi School because they are doing such a great job educating my grandchildren.

Creative Montessori School is what Maria Montessori had in mind when she defined the ultimate learning environment. While the building is far from new, the teachers and other staff members love and nuture the children like they are their own. The spirit of the child is respected at all times, encouraging mature, motivated and independent graduates. My child loves going to school here, she adores her teachers and feels that she is part of an academic family! I love it when other parents comment on how happy (and intelligent) my child is. This school is one of the finest private schools Birmingham has to offer.
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers are not open parental suggestions. Children with learning problems may not find what they need. Behavioral probelems are also a problem.
—Submitted by a parent

I have three children with a Creative Montessori education. Creative Montessori is a wonderful place for children to experience childhood to its fullest and achieve their academic potential. They are free to learn, encouraged to explore, stimulated without being over-stressed, and allowed to be kids without apology. Homework is mostly in the form of long-range projects and rarely interrupts the flow of life after school. My oldest is now a freshman in high school; neither he nor his sister in seventh grade has suffered academically for not having had several hours of homework each night of their elementary school years. I am thankful that my children have been able to love learning and life at the same time in the Montessori environment.
—Submitted by a parent

This is a wonderful school! My son is graduating this year after 5 years here at the school. The Montessori method is a wonderful way to teach children and allow them to be themselves. They learn better and the teachers actually care about what happens to the children. Each teacher takes time with the students. I wish my son could stay there till he graduates. Check out there site at http://www.creative-montessori.net
—Submitted by Donna Roehrig, a parent