Montessori School of Raleigh

The February 1 parent sounds defensive. Maybe they are a staff member at the school and not very objective. The kids here are supossed to be self- directed but it's more like self- taught. The fact that the school doesn't give grades or report cards make it tough to know how you student is doing in school. The parent/teacher conferences that take place two times a year don't give enough information. I asked specific questions but got vague answers. I found the teachers to be condescending and judgmental. Before choosing this school I went to the open houses and asked lots of questions. I was told things that sounded great but proved not to be the case. Of course a school is only going to tell you the good stuff. It's only after you send your kid there that you see what it is really like.

It sounds as if January 4th parent is completely unfamiliar with the Montessori system. The philosphy of every Montessori school is based on 3-year groupings and is explained fully at every orientation session. There is a gym with regularly scheduled PE classes and daily outdoor recess. The art and music programs are outstanding and computers are not used in class until the students reach Upper Elementary. There's plenty of time to teach kids to be desk-bound drones without starting them in pre-K. They do learn to record original music and make movies, though. I consider that 'technology.' Cons: Tuition is very high, although assistance is available. Montessori schools in general are not the right choice for every child. It's up to the parent to do research first and make that determination for him/herself.
—Submitted by a parent

I am the parent of a student that has attended this school for many years, and each year I become more displeased with the school. This is the last year I will send my child there. This school is very expensive and does not warrent the high tution. The school does not have a gym or lunchroom and they do not offer any type of technology class. Also, there is not an organized art or music program. Combined classrooms, 3 grades in 1 classroom, are unrealistic. There are too many differences emotionally and academically. The teachers claim that they respect the differences in each student but I have not found that to be true. This school wants the children to conform to what the school determines is best for the class, not what is best for the child. Think very carefully before selecting this school.
—Submitted by a parent

Having had lots of kids and lived in lots of places, I am hard to please and very picky about schools. Have had my two kids in MSR for 5 years now and I cannot say enough about how wonderful this environment is. Nurturing, encouraging of independence, excellent skills, and more. This is my kind of learning -- not regimented and cookie cutter in any way. My children learn how to live here and how to help others do the same. Great outdoor spaces and classrooms, excellent devoted teachers.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is worth your time to physically go in and check out- you owe it to your kids. I have been reviewing many different academic environments trying to find the right place for our 2 young girls- with out a flash of anything but passion for what this school represents were they on a waitlist to get in asap!! Lets just say the comments from other parents after the orinetation were glowing - in fact we all stated we wished 'we' would have had this opportunity when we were school aged. Quality - I spell that with a capital 'Q'- Nothing but sincere drive to help kids mature into the best citizens they can be.
—Submitted by a parent

My child has been attending this school since he was a toddler and we have been very pleased. The school has excellent teachers, a wonderful school community, and a beautiful facility. The children's house program is wonderful and our child has thrived here. This school is a gem.
—Submitted by a parent

MSR provides a child centered education based upon the principles of Maria Montessori. We have been at the school for 5 years and are thrilled with the high quality of the teachers as well as the philosophy of the school.
—Submitted by a staff