Arbor Montessori

We are very happy with Arbor. Our daughter is 4. She is reading, working on math, writing in cursive and print. She holds her pencil correctly too. She is learning about the world & important figures through history. She also has opportunities to cook, draw, and appreciate nature. She has wonderful teachers that encourage & challenge her. Montessori is kind of like the Karate Kid. Its based on building blocks. They start out working with tools that will prepare them for other lessons later on. People should definitely check Arbor out. You will be impressed.
--Submitted by a parent

Arbor is the epitome of a school community. In our family's view, Arbor is at the pinnacle of what a strong school+teacher+parent community should be -- with a central focus on doing what is best for the child. Arbor is deeply rooted in the Montessori method of educating children, which seeks to allow each child to pursue their own pathway to embed a lifelong love of learning. Our family has been deeply engaged in the school since joining in 2010. The teachers we have experienced have been terrific educators and allow for great parental interaction. Ditto for the administrators. The parental involvement really helps to complete the circle. It is just the right size (about 300 children) to have the resources of a large school, but is small enough to allow for deep engagement w/ other parents or your child's classroom. From a value perspective, Arbor is a non-profit & tuition is extremely reasonable by private school standards in Atlanta. If you are seeking a Montessori education for your children, then Arbor is a great place to start. If you are not sure about Montessori, then Google "Montessori Madness" & watch the video. Or, go sit on a classroom to see why Arbor works.
--Submitted by a parent

We enrolled at Arbor Montessori when our oldest child entered first grade (she attended primary at another Montessori school). Since Day 1 we have been so impressed with the teachers, administration and parent community. Our children LOVE to go to school. The teachers passion for teaching, enthusiasm, experience and commitment is unmatched. If you want an outstanding and authentic Montessori experience, Arbor is the place.
--Submitted by a parent

When I moved to Atlanta I hoped to enroll my 4 YO in a Montessori school based on recs from my 2 sisters (both teachers). I was advised by Arbor admin to attend the parent information classes and did so, a long day. But on submission I was informed my child was "too old" for Arbor, and although she had attended a Montessori-like program that was not sufficient. One teacher recommended I try other "less stringent" Montessori schools. OK... they have rules. But imagine my chagrin when a co-worker reported his older 4 YO had been accepted to Arbor!! It seemed clear to me that financial situations speak volumes at Arbor. I hear it is a good school, but needless to say I am not a fan.

Arbor is a great school! It's a nurturing educational environment, and has top notch teachers and staff. My son is in his fourth year. He loves school and loves learning. I am amazed by the progress he's making. We couldn't be happier!
--Submitted by a parent

My son was at Arbor for one year, and we pulled him out after we realized that the Montessori approach, especially in this very strict style school was not a good fit for him or for our family. Overall, communication, lack of creative outlets for play and art, odd and negative social dynamics of teacher and older children with younger children were reasons things did not work out. My advice is, trust you instincts, and if things are not working, don't be afraid to pull your child out!
--Submitted by a parent

We did not have a great experience at Arbor Montessori. Our child was in the Primary classroom, and we switched schools this year. Positives: Montessori method; diverse student body. Negatives: Student / teacher ratio even at the youngest levels; communication; flexibility to accomodate the learning styles of all children. Montessori was not the right method for our child - not Arbor's fault. We felt liked we had a wall versus a partner when discussing educational requirements / options for our child. In essence, it felt as if our child 'failed' Montessori - which I did not think was possible in a child-centric approach.
--Submitted by a parent

Such a wonderful school! I'm so glad that my children love to come to school everyday. The staff, teachers and parents help to contribute to a strong sense of community. The teachers nuture each child's gifts while achieving a strong academic foundation. The classes are beautiful and welcoming. I never cease to be amazed by the Montessori curriculum and materials. Truly breathtaking! My family is blessed to have found Arbor! Hmmm...hey one star parent...when is it ever ok to come to school in anything other than daytime clothing? My pjs, no costumes...just clothing...Montessori prepares children for life and life isn't wearing whatever you want to school (or work). Sounds like the match wasn't right for you and that isn't Arbor's fault.
--Submitted by a parent

It is an extraordinary educational system that meets the child where they are in order to promote life-long independent, and thriving lives!
--Submitted by a parent

Our daughter (almost 3 yrs.) was placed in the N. Decatur location. At first she and we loved it, but as weeks went by, it was very obvious to us that the dynamics in the classroom for our daughter were not a great fit. She picked up numerous negative attitudes from the older children, became very self conscious or what she was wearing and how her hair was done- at age 2 and 3/4! She thrived very much on the materials, but the social aspect of the classroom proved to be draining on her. She was also never very comfortable with her teacher- who was quite dry. She was even pulled out of class for choosing to come to school in a set of pajamas that she loved. Half parents seemed overly competitive and not very genuine. If there is a mismatch between a teacher and student, you're out of luck!
--Submitted by a parent