Good Shepherd Montessori School

My son has been at GSMS for 3 years and has enjoyed it very much. I do worry about his learning skills though. The teachers are very good with the children, but lack good communication with the parents. My son has improved his confidence since he started there and this is pleasing. It is a true Montessori school and the works are "old school", which is fine because my son gets enough computer time at home. All in All I would recommend this school for Toddler and Primary Years.
--Submitted by a parent

My child has been attending for one year. The teachers appear to be very caring, but it does not appear that much teaching is done. The worst aspect is communication; they don't respond to phone calls or emails in anything approaching a responsible manner. If you do not join their cult of mind-melded parents, you are an outsider. They have an absurd dress code and food code. I don't mind a dress code, but they absolutely require that all clothes be bought at one particular store, which makes me wonder what is their relationship with that store owner. Their food code forbids about 75% of what you would normally pack into your children's lunches, including juiceboxes or anything with sugar... because, you know... sugar is evil. I give them a grade of average only because, as mentioned, the teachers do seem to genuinely care about the kids.
--Submitted by a parent

My son has attended this school for 2 years. His teachers have been wonderful and patient with him. The staff is extremely nice. The principal has called our home to check on us and see if we have any questions or problems. I believe my son is learning above and beyond what he would learn in most other preschools. Overall, it has been a great experience. My only complaint (and the reason we are switching schools next year) is that although it is advertised as a Christian school, I see very little Christian teaching going on. The children attend chapel every week and sing a few Christian songs, but otherwise I see no integration of Biblical principles or Christian concepts in their teaching. There is no scripture memory requirement, daily Bible story time or any classroom or extracurricular activities that focus on spiritual growth.
--Submitted by a parent

My son have attended GSMS since he was 16 months old. He is now 4 and thrives in the environment. The teachers are extremely knowledgeable and welcoming which makes a perfect combination for learning. When comparing GSMS to others in the area, it is far above the rest in all areas. I would recommend this school for children from toddler ages thru 6th grade!
--Submitted by a parent

I have been a part of Good Shepherd for 3 years. The teachings are consistent with tradional Montessori schools. This should be your first choice when chosing a school!
--Submitted by a parent

I currently have two students enrolled in GSMS and have been part of the "family" for the past three years. I have toured all the Montessori schools in McKinney and this one is definitely the star that shines. Although other schools have Montessori in their name, they do not adhere to all of the Montessori philosophy. Good Shepherd has complete works in every classroom so the child is able to fully finish every element. GSMS is also competitively priced and I feel that it is well worth every dollar we spend. I highly recommend this school.
--Submitted by a parent

My child has began attending Good Shepherd Montessori School in the toddler program. I am constantly amazed at confident and independent he is with his knowlege and actions. He is currently in the primary department and flourishing. I am so thankful he is already developing his life long love of learning at such a young age. He loves to go to school and see his friends and teachers. His teachers are always there for him and he is secure in knowing that they love and respect him. I believe that Good Shepherd is wonderful environment for my child to learn and grow. The 100 year history of the campus and the big beautiful organic garden is the perfect atmosphere for my child to interact with nature. I researched MANY Montessori schools and felt that Good Shepherd was a classical Montessori school staying true to what Dr. Montessori herself created. It may not be the fanciest or shiniest school but I feel confident it is the truest Montessori school in the area. I completely recommend Good Shepherd to anyone who is interested in a REAL Montessori school not a glorified daycare facility.
--Submitted by a parent

This is my family's sixth year at GSMS. What first attracted me was the peaceful environment. The teachers are focused on helping each child develop to his/her full potential academically, emotionally, physically and spiritually. The children are taught to care for themselves, their environment and others. Academically, they are encouraged to explore all the areas of learning. They cannot be "left behind" in an area where they struggle (because they will work until they have mastered each lesson), and they are not "held back" in areas where they have natural gifts or interests! Each classroom has a 3-year age span, which allows each child to experience being the youngest, the middle and the oldest. It is an incredible blessing to give each child an opportunity to gain the sense of accomplishment that comes with nurturing younger students. GSMS offers a "true" Montessori environment (with AMS-certified teachers), lovely grounds, an organic garden (frequented by all students) and an involved community, which becomes extended family! The music program and fine arts are also favorites.
--Submitted by a parent

I had been going to GSMS for about 3-4 years, and after I left I realized how HORRIBLE this school is. I've learned more in one week than we did in a whole year. Yes, I am serious. I strongly discourage you to put your child in this school. And, what I never understood was, where does all there money go? They make alot of money each year, and I understand bills and taxes, but I never saw one new materiel there. No laptops/computers, working materiels, etc.. DO NOT PUT YOUR CHILD IN THIS SCHOOL.
--Submitted by a parent

We love GSMS. This is our daughters third year there. When we found this school, we were looking for a Christian private school that excelled in academics. We found that & much more at GSMS. This wonderful school has exceeded all expectations. Our child has grown academically, socially, & most importantly spiritually. We could not be happier, and would wholeheartedly recommend Good Shepherd Montessori School.
--Submitted by a parent