This program was added in 1998 to allow students to continue with the Montessori method of education throughout their elementary school years. As the elementary-aged child gradually moves from the concrete learning pathways of preschool to the more abstract ones of the elementary, Montessori meets her developmental needs each step of the way.

In the Montessori Elementary Program, the child's own questions provide the basis for exploration of the world. Because these questions are heeded and nurtured, the child really connects with knowledge. subject matter is made more relevant to the child's personal question providing inner motivation. A Montessori elementary education does not give the child a collection of trivial facts but rather bestows a vision of interrelated knowledge and love of learning.

The cosmic perspective does not mean, however, that Montessori elementary ignores the basics of reading, writing, and arithmetic. During the preschool years, the Montessori child has already acquired a beginning literacy of letters, numbers, and writing. In the elementary years, these basic skills are polished in the meaningful context of a big picture.

This program is from 8:30 to 3:00.  A ratio of 15 students per teacher is maintained. Early Arrival and After-care programs are available for Elementary students.

Elementary I (Grades 1 - 3) is called Hickory.

Apply to the Elementary Program