West Glades Montessori School

Both of my children attended for two years in a row and we couldn't be happier. They loved it as well. WGM had a big part in helping us raise well rounded happy children, conscious of the environment, courteous, and with an incredible appetite for knowledge. They had a lot of fun and we wouldn't trade those years for anything! Their teacher was excellent and truly cared about them; And the school was run top-notch! Best of all, they both remember it fondly --confirmation that we made the right choice!
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter has been going to this school for 2 years now. All of the teachers are very nice and sincerely care for each kid. I will keep my daughter here as long as possible and would recommend this school to anyone.
--Submitted by a parent

Love Love Love this school. We found WGM after doing through research on 11 schools in the area. We had our two sons in another school and moved them to WGM mid year due to the fact that we were so excited about the school. The teachers are great, the material presented is amazing. The teachers set high expectations which the kids seem more than happy to meet. Both our boys (different ages and classes) are blossoming socially and academically. They are learning science and math that had not been presented at other schools. My oldest son started reading by 4 . Placing our kids in WGM has been the best academic decision we have made to date.
--Submitted by a parent

When I first signed my son up I already had the feeling that they were very strict. I never really liked the playground. The stuff there is kinda old and worn. But I wanted to give it a try since the curriculum seemed good. But after only a week I realized there is no room for a kid to be themselves. They expect little children to be so proper and well behaved at all times. I know my son is very active and doesn't always listen but I decided to remove him from the school. I never had an issue with the previous montessori he had gone to and there apparently he behaved and listened well. I only decided to try out this school because for 5X week they were cheaper than other montessories.
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent school if what you want is discipline and strong academics. Very european-like style. The main credit for this goes to the Director.
--Submitted by a parent

Well, I suppose you have to find what is best for your child. I have been with WGM for seven years and loved it. My children have thrived and excelled far beyond grade level. The teachers always treated my children with love and caring, and this goes for the directress as well. SHe has a tough job and runs a tight ship to ensure what she believes is best for the children. Montessori is not the best fit for every child, but for my children it has been a wonderful learning experience. Also, my kids have enjoyed extracurricular activities such as Spanish, Science, Yoga and Manners. Some years they have more than others, but the kids have always enjoyed it. The best thing about WGM has been that they nurture a love of learning and expand the mind in their approach to solving problems.
--Submitted by a parent

While the Director takes her position quite seriously and rules like a Queen bee, she actually is looking out for the best interest of the children. I do not find her personable or realistic in dealing with parents; she goes by the book to an extreme. But with that said, the school is clean, run like a true Montessori, the teachers are by no means rookies like I found at other preschools in the area both montessori and non, and the children are learning! My child went on to an accelerated program in public school after attending preschool there. Had it not been for tuition, we would have followed the program through third grade. BTW tuition, for those who can afford private, is extremely reasonable in comparison to many inferior private schools which are more expensive to boot.
--Submitted by a parent

I truly agree with the parent comments posted on Oct. 6. I could not have said it better myself. The school is small and clean but lacks any extra curricular activites. There is little tolerance for childs learning syyle. I thought this was what Montessori was about. The school is definately different when the director is not there. Like night and Day. the staff actually laughs and smiles and talks to parents. if the director was not there it would be a better school.
--Submitted by a parent

I would not recommend sending your child to West Glades Montessori School. The school has an overall atmosphere of negativity. The director expects all of the children to conform to her frequently unreasonable expectations disregarding their autonomy and individuality. Her demeanor is condescending at best and she is frequently rude to the parents. It is evident by her behavior that parents are tolerated but not welcome at the school during the day. These behaviors are in direct conflict with the Montessori ideology. Although the teachers are good, the directors influence is overpowering and effects the classroom environment, leaving little room for acceptance, welcome or warmth. In speaking with other parents, current and past, a common theme is frequently repeated 'If the director was not there West Glades it would be a great place to send our kids.'
--Submitted by a parent

I love this school, the teachers are amazing, the headmistress is on top of her game. they go above and beyond and have made my daughter very happy, confident and smart! thank you all.
--Submitted by a parent