Walnut Farm Montessori

To the parent who wrote that you are DISAPPOINTED. I would welcome the chance to speak to you. I am the president of the Parents Association at Walnut Farm Montessori School, and I would very much like to address some of your concerns about the PA. We recognize having the meetings in the morning is a challenge for working parents, which is why we distribute via email the meeting minutes. We have tried meetings in the evening but find that they are not well attended. The meeting we had in the evening in March was only attended by one family. Also, I apologize if you feel overwhelmed by the pressure to "donate" to never ending school-fundraisers, that was never our goal or intention. Again, I am sorry that you have been disappointed with the school. While I cannot address your concerns about the school's staff or director, I would like the opportunity to address your concerns in regards to the Parents Associations. One of the main goals of the PA IS to ensure that new families feel welcome and address any questions/concerns and I feel that we have let you down. I hope that you know who I am and how to reach me. If not, you can ask the school administration.
--Submitted by a parent

DISAPPOINTED. We recently moved to NWA and have been very disappointed with this school. For a Montessori school, they are very ridgid in their views. They have too many kids in a class (23-24) and the teachers, although caring, seem overwhelmed. There is a lack of communication between the teachers and parents. The director thinks very highly of herself and talks down to parents at her monthly parent education meetings. There are a lot of parent involvement opportunities if you are a stay at home mom. All PTA meetings are during the day. They also don't provide childcare for the 15 min parent/teacher conferences or the monthly meetings making it difficult for both parents to attend. This is one of the most expensive schools around and yet families are expected to bring monthly snacks and classroom supplies (despite paying a lum sum supply fee at the beginning of the year). There is also a lot of pressure to "donate" to never-ending school fundraisers. The teachers even provide a wish list so you can buy them the right christmas presents. In the end, I think this school could improve if they were more humble and more considerate of the families they serve.
--Submitted by a parent

An excellent alternative to a traditional education. This education is for the entire child (not just math, science, reading and writing). A true educational community from the adminstrative staff, teachers and parents. My child has had a remarkable experience. I only hope the school will expand past its current enrollment to age 12.
--Submitted by a parent

The best teachers and staff, the atmosphere and the love I get to see through my daughter's eyes when I drop her off!
--Submitted by a parent

Really helps them learn vs. teaching to test. My child has blossomed and is doing as she says, 'big work!'
--Submitted by a parent

Walnut Farm has a very calm and nurturing atmosphere. My son has learned so much in just the first few months! The teachers/staff are great!
--Submitted by a parent