Whole Earth Montessori

As a parent I would not recommend WEM school based on my child studying in Ms.Sonali and Ms.Nidhi class. Personally i like the teachers but i am not sure if the kids are getting enough attention and proper curriculum roadmap. No parent teachers gettogether -- as compared to Bellevue Montessori. I think in Bellevue Montessori 4 yrs back the director studied in that school and brought in lots of good learning and curriculum that kids will like. I think this school needs a revisit and teachers changed... these are my thoughts and couple of parents i spoke with. If i could get money back, i would have taken my kid out. Hope management and director reads this and take appropriate action.
—Submitted by a parent

Three of our children attended Whole Earth several years ago, starting in 2001. They attended for several years, until they were ready for middle school. The school is a wonderful place, and the fact that the same owner and some of the same teachers are still there after all these years is reassuring, since we are now ready to send our youngest there next year for preschool. I appreciate their caring approach, combined with a deep knowledge of child education and development. I rated parent involvement lower only because we weren't as involved back then, but are looking to become more involved this time around. Truly kind people.
—Submitted by a parent

After attending for 3 years, my son was dramatically behind in math and writing skills. The class size was extraordinarily small, so it does not make sense that any child should be trailing behind in any subject. Socially, the school creates an artificial environment which prohibits learning natural social consequences. This school is fine for very young children only.
—Submitted by a parent

My second child just entered WEM, we've had only positive experiences and are in our fourth year.
—Submitted by a parent

There is little emphasis on academics, little to no communication with parents, behavior problems in the classroom are tolerated, and the administration is difficult to deal with (this is putting it mildly). Avoid this school at all costs.
—Submitted by a parent

The staff members are excellent with true Montessori philosophy. Tuition is very low compared to other schools in the area and the campus has space for play time, gardening and a greenhouse!
—Submitted by a parent

The teachers are nice but can't say the same for the management. They promise field trips which never seem to materialize. Parents are requested for contributions beyond the tuition - especially for expanding the facilities.
—Submitted by a parent

My son is attending his 4th year at Whole Earth. The attention he receives has helped to develop his keen interests in math and history!
—Submitted by a parent

Our son first attended summer school and is now in third grade and in his second full year at Whole Earth. His teacher has been wonderful about working with our son an individual basis and his academic progress has been excellent. The school is a beautiful property -- new playground equipment is an added plus. Organized games are facilitated at recess time for those who choose to participate. Spanish, yoga offered. The entire staff is supportive of both parents and children. Our son's teacher and the Director are very willing to work with parents -- we are all extremely happy at Whole Earth!
—Submitted by Julie M, a parent

Whole Earth has been a wonderful school experience for my child. The atmosphere is always positive and nurturing. The school's focus is 'Respect for self, others and the environment'. Everyone is honored and respected for who they are, without judgment. Having just graduated from the Whole Earth, I know my daughter is well prepared for middle school. Her future teachers are impressed with not only her academic success, but also with her confidence and demeanor towards others. All the teachers at Whole Earth are enthusiastic, sharing their knowledge and experiences. The elementary school includes excellent programs in music, spanish and science. There are many opportunities for parent involvement, and parents are encouraged to participate in any way they feel comfortable. I can't say enough about how special, unique and wonderful Whole Earth Montessori School is.
—Submitted by Polly Hegland, a parent

My son is very shy and wasn't quite speaking fully when he started to attend Whole Earth Montessori. He is currently speaking really well and enjoy going to this school.
—Submitted by a parent

We moved our child after four months at the school. We felt progress had stopped since attending school. Numeracy and literacy not covered on a daily basis. Our child last read to the teacher well over a month before being removed. Very little art work produced but when it was done it was very good. Not enough daily structure. Not enough children within their own peer groups. Had lots of issues with the teacher running the classes but felt the Principal was prepared to listen. Too late for us by then. Music and Spanish offered as well as after school care. No sports but a large area for them to round around in during recess and yoga offered. I think we were not used to the Montessori teaching philosophy. With a different teacher maybe we would have stayed.
—Submitted by a parent

Whole Earth is built on a turn of the century farm. It is on a really beautiful piece of property with a lot of room for the kids to run around and explore (it is fenced and safe). It also offers a terrific garden that the children grow plants in and care for. I have been really pleased with the pre-school. My kids have not attended kindergarden or elementary. The teachers are open and available. The classrooms are quiet and controlled. Kids choose the work that they have had lessons in. It is truly Montessori because the children are self directed. There is a music program there and foreign language. My older son went there for two years and my younger son is there now. I would recommend this school. There is a high level of parent involvement and fundraising activities.
—Submitted by a parent