Joliet Montessori School

Such an incredible school!!! The faculty, staff and the Head of School, Ms. Carol Andrew provide my daughter with the best learning environment we could EVER ask for in a school. My daughter is reading at a 2nd grade level and is five years old!! We are thrilled to have found this hidden gem!! I love the Montessori method!!! I cannot image giving a better gift to our children!!!
--Submitted by a parent

My husband and I decided to send our children to Joliet Montessori School because of my husband's positive experience as a student at the school from preschool thru his 3rd year in the Elementary Program. The addition of the Adolescent Program since my husband's time as a student was another draw to enroll our children at JMS. We felt like the opportunity for our children to experience a Montessori education from the Primary through Adolescent Program was such a unique opportunity that should not be missed. The thing we love the most about Joliet Montessori School is the intimate knowledge the Guides have on each of our children's personalities to maximize their learning potential. The fact that each classroom is structured with individual lesson plans as oppose to a conventional classroom environment is another strong reason why we enroll our children at JMS each year. This type of classroom setting allows them to excel in their strengths and have the appropriate time to improve their weaknesses.
--Submitted by a parent

This school is awesome. The teachers are nice. I am learning a lot from this school. Our work is fun. My favorite work is making maps. I suggest you pick this school for your kids like my Mom did.

I have three children at Joliet Montessori School (JMS), two in the elementary program, one in the primary program. All started at JMS when they were three. Each of my children have and continue to thrive at JMS. JMS allows them the opportunity to work at their own pace with supervision. What this means for my children is that they continue to be challenged in their studies, while receiving the extra attention in the areas they haven't yet mastered. In addition to the academics, JMS also focuses on grace and courtesy lessons, teaching the children how to peacefully interact with others and conflict resolution skills at an early age. The school has recently added the Adolescent House, where the 7th and 8th graders have their own dedicated building for classroom space. In addition to the Adolescent House, JMS is completing work on the Outdoor Classroom, and incorporates Environmental Education into their program as appropriate. I would strongly recommend that prospective parents ask questions and learn about Maria Montessori and the Montessori Method of Education. I am very pleased with the education my children are receiving, and can not imagine them anywhere else.
--Submitted by a parent

DISAPPOINTED. Not in tune with my children unless I had a meeting scheduled with them. My 3rd grader was struggling and eventually started to pretend he was "working" on lessons. His teacher did not follow through on directions she gave him. They were told to do work before being given a lesson. After randomly reviewing his work in his cubby and more specific questions about what he did, read, and worked on; it became apparent that he was not working and/or reading what the teacher told me he was. When I questioned my child what he had researched and read a particular day; he told me. I had doubts. The teacher had confirmed his selection and reading that day. When I later asked my child about the subject matter and what page they were on, he knew virtually nothing. The book was too advanced for his reading level, therefore, he could not have sat in the reading area for any amount of time and read it, let alone used it for research. I found his teacher to be disconnected and preoccupied with her own hobbies and "favorites". This school may work for some, if I had to do it again, I would not. I did like the sense of community this school offered, but that only goes so far.

My son has been at this school for 3 years. Started as a 3 year old and is preparing for graduation from K as a 6 year old. His teacher is wonderful! I am quite pleased with her. As for music, art, language, sports...these are not part of the general curriculum but offered as extracurricular activities at an additional charge after school. I am also pleased with the communication between Directress of the school and my family. Extended Day care is exceptional. I would highly recommend this Montessori school for any child/parent wanting a quality education for their child. Parental involvement is encouraged. Some parents are more involved than others.
--Submitted by Cindy, a parent