Ruffing Montessori School

Ruffing Montessori is a good school but your experience will depend on what teacher you are assigned. My child attended this school and it was a nightmare. His teacher repeatedly made culturally insensitive remarks during our conferences and the class environment was very physical. I spoke to the teacher repeatedly about the physical culture of the class and she assured me it would get better but it never did. Also, my child told me she pointed her finger in his face and yelled at him. I sent her an email stating what my child told me and asked for clarification she did not respond. I withdrew my child out of the school. I am sure this is a good school but even good schools can have bad teachers. If you allow your child to attend a class directed by D. Liston you are doing him/her a disservice.
--Submitted by a parent

Excellent school! My daughter attended from 3 yrs old until 7th grade when we moved far east in Ohio. She now attends a public high school and has adapted wonderfully, academic and socially. As other reviews have stated, Ruffing teaches children what they need to know for the real world in addition to the academic studies. The studies let the child advance at their own pace and gifted children are not held back others that may need more attention. Although it was a bit of a financial strain for my family, I am so glad I made the decision and commitment for her to attend Ruffing.
--Submitted by a parent

catholic option, I did not like that, some go to church in the gym some do not.

I have two children at Ruffing and am extremely pleased. My younger child actually went there first in Pre-K and I loved it so much I moved my daughter there in the 4th grade. She is more challenged at Ruffing that at any other school she's been at. I love that she is learning to motivate herself and organize her time when doing her schoolwork. I also love the family atmosphere and the wonderful teachers. I highly recommend Ruffing Montessori!!
--Submitted by a parent

You will not find a better learning enviornment for a gifted student that Ruffing Montessori. It a very special place and it is a true privilege to be able to send my children there. It is a financial sacrife (my family is not wealty by any means), but it's worth it in my mind. I recently took a hard look at Roxoboro Elementary in Cleveland Heights (I wanted to make sure that there was a real difference between Ruffing and Roxboro, given the cost), and came away even more convinced that Ruffing is the best fit for my family.
--Submitted by a parent

The Montessori method delivered at Ruffing is currently the best style of education and this has been proven by the success of the Ruffing kids in high school. In my opinion, this school is not for everyone, particularly those kids who have disabilities, as the principal is not particularly accommodating and it does not have psychologists or the usual other resources. For most however, the teaching approach and the individual's responsibility for himself and others is very beneficial. Extra-curricular activities are limited as again in my opinion, the principal is not particularly in support of them. Most teachers are very good and parental support is strong.
--Submitted by a parent

We love Ruffing! We are thrilled that our son will be here until the 8th grade. Now to get a Ruffing Montessori High School - that would truly be a dream come true!
--Submitted by a parent

My son currently attends Ruffing. The school is outstanding. Every teacher takes a personal interest in the overall well-being of each child. The parents and teachers go out of their way to make the school a welcoming place that is committed to the education of each child. Familiy is a top priority of the school with activities planned throughout the year to achieve this goal. Each child is made accountable for their actions leading to a more responsible and cohesive attmosphere. I would highly recommend the school to anyone that wants the absolute best education for their child(ren).
--Submitted by a parent

I have had 3 students attend and graduate from this school. The academic and moral development is wonderful, as is the family atmosphere. Because the students attend the same school for so long, the teachers know everyone. The level of responsibility and behavior expected of the middle schoolers is far superior to the traditional public middle school. I would highly recommend it!
--Submitted by a parent

Ruffing is really a special place. From my first visit, I was struck by how excited the kids were about learning. The teachers are outstanding and the family involvement is extraordinary. John McNamara's commitment to every child holds everything together.
--Submitted by a parent