Childpeace Montessori School

My child attended the middle school program here. 20 kids and two teachers in a very intimate setting, and it was the most toxic social environment we had ever experienced. It seemed that every student hated every other student. The meanness that was tolerated and sometimes even encouraged by the adults in the community far exceeded anything we've seen before or since. Bullying and backstabbing is NOT developmentally appropriate, however common it may be--it is the result of kids feeling unsafe emotionally. Here we learned that neither being small nor being private nor being "close knit" necessarily result in a positive social environment. The group goes on some great trips, but the academics were pretty much nonexistent.
—Submitted by a parent

It looks good and has a line to get in, but, I cannot say we had a positive experience at Childpeace. We gave it two years (1st & 2nd grade). We found the the head of the school to be all smiles, but very passive aggressive and defensive to any insights, concerns, or input. Some teachers are great, my daughter got a stinker. A cold fish who would not let herself think outside of the box. I realized that Montessori is not for every child and private school does not mean good school. There were many families doing educational enrichment programs outside of school to fill the gaps in academics. Not a good sign. I met many families who were unhappy there but felt that there were not any better choices out there, or waiting for the right time to break away. Isn't it interesting how you never get to speak with these parents at the Open Houses?:) I could walk away saying my daughter learned to write in cursive beautifully and still does two years after leaving. We loved the Art Run! Really fun. The volunteer community is quite impressive and savvy. Good luck to you! You may have a better outcome than we did. We are thrilled that we moved on to another school.
—Submitted by a parent

I am a parent of three children who attend Childpeace. My oldest child has diagnosed behavioral problems. I have had nothing but incredible support from the staff, and the head of school at Childpeace. I find previous comments about the administration shocking, to say the least. My child's life has been profoundly different because of the guidance, love and community he has experienced throughout his eight years at Childpeace. He has been allowed to be the individual he is, find his unique talents, and shine under the discipline of a skilled staff. My other two have also grown, learned, and become the best people they can be in their time in this incredible school.
—Submitted by a parent

Childpeace has had the most profound and positive impact on my daughter's life. She attended there for nine years and it was formative in her development as a student and person. I give the credit for this to the leadership of the Director and her staff. They consistently worked with me and my family to navigate some difficult issues in order to keep my daughter there. i work in the public schools and I wish every child in Portland could have the quality of the experience and education offered at Childpeace.
—Submitted by a parent

I've stayed with the school through much of its growth and expansion, but the focused and individualized attention given to each student is invariably wonderful.
—Submitted by a parent

Both of our children attend Childpeace and are absolutely thriving. I especially enjoy the extensive parent education offerings and the staff's encouragement to use the Montessori principles in the home. As a working parent, the focus on high quality afterschool options has been invaluable. It's been a great match for us.
—Submitted by a parent

I give Childpeace the lowest possible grade for their ability to deal graciously as students develop special needs. The administration absolutely demands the utmost commitment from each family, including forcing you to commit to 3-year blocks at a time. Even if your child has been tthere for years, however, if they suddenly develop a problem with their ability to keep up with the academics, or their behavior starts to become a problem, they will squeeze you out. There is now a big group of families that this has happened to (which is nice that we can commiserate at least!). The director is one of the most defensive people I've ever met. She can't hear criticism, which makes it extremely uncomfortable and difficult if there is a problem. I am also giving Childpeace a terrible grade for environmental concerns. Their playground is six blocks from the worst polluter in Portland (Esco Foundry) and is right under the 405 freeway. My child got diagnosed with chronic arsenic exposure while going to school there (which affected his behavior, which is why he got pushed out). Studies show that Esco emits huge spikes of arsenic and car exhaust is a known source of arsenic.
—Submitted by a parent

This Montessori school is one with the highest of standards within the AMI (Association Montessori International). The broad community - from toddlers through middle school - provides a wonderful base for continuity and connections.
—Submitted by a parent

This is such a supportive staff and administration - fun, committed, and gracious people work here!
—Submitted by a teacher

We have 3 children attending Childpeace and are amazed by the dedicated staff and administration. This is a school where the teachers and staff really know your child and put a lot of thought and effort into their education. I cannot imagine a more nurturing learning environment for a child.
—Submitted by a parent

Both of our children are thriving at Childpeace. All the staff - teachers, administrators, support staff - are thoroughly committed to providing the best possible learning environment. Our children are valued for who they are as individuals and nurtured to grow academically, emotionally, and socially. The teachers have consistently been responsive to our individual concerns and aspirations for our children. When we joined the school community we felt welcomed immediately and have come to appreciate the strong commitment to volunteering that most families make.
—Submitted by a parent

We have two children at Montessori. Both started at 3yrs of age and our oldest is now in the 5th grade. Through out our 8 years there we are continually amazed at how our children are not only growing academically but how they are developing into confident, caring young people. The children love to learn and learn respect for one another. I am continually amazed at how smart our kids are in natural sciences, math and current events. We absolutely love the Montessori style of education and this school is fantastic.
—Submitted by a parent

We are in our third year at this school and couldn't be happier. Each time we move up to the next level (from children's house to lower elementary to upper elementary) it seems to get better! The thing they do best here is to educate the child academically, socially, individually, respectfully, wholly. If there is anything I have done right in parenting it is sending my kids to this amazing, unique, progressive school!
—Submitted by a parent

Love the excellent staff and urban vibe of Childpeace. My child is happy and thriving in the Children's House program. Also looking forward to staying at the same school through elementary and middle school...the consistency is a great gift, especially for working families
—Submitted by a parent

Childpeace Montessori has two locations that each offer a true Montessori experience. The SE location has experienced and energetic teachers that are dedicated to the children. This is the best Montessori experience in the city!
—Submitted by a parent