FAQs regarding our programs

1. Why is a 5-day program essential? 

We understand that committing to a 5-day program can look like a big step, especially for younger learners. However, a 5-day program is important because it provides children with the consistency and rhythm that the Montessori method is built upon. Young learners thrive when their environment, routines, and expectations remain steady each day. Attending five days a week allows children to fully engage with the Montessori materials, build concentration, and develop independence at a natural pace. It also supports stronger social relationships, smoother transitions, and deeper learning, as children can return to their work daily without long gaps that interrupt their progress. 

2. What does your children’s daily schedule look like? 

Though Montessori education values freedom, it also acknowledges the importance of structure in building confidence. Our daily schedules follow a set structure, with each element being flexible. St. Mary's program include: 

  • Montessori work period (3 hours of uninterrupted work time) 

  • Snack/mealtime 

  • Outdoor play 

  • Community Gathering time  

  • Montessori work period for kindergarten age children (Known as third years in the Montessori environment)  

  • Nap time (for younger children) 

  • AM and PM care are provided according to the needs of each family. This time also includes hands-on learning activities. 

3. What extracurricular activities do you offer?

We offer both morning and afternoon care programs that incorporate hands-on activities for children. Additionally, soccer and gymnastics are offered for children aged 2 to 6 years. Elementary students have access to a range of after-school clubs, including culinary, art, dance, language, and soccer. 

4. What is your student-to-teacher ratio? 

St. Mary's Montessori School adheres to the staff-to-child ratios mandated by the Department of Social Services:

  • 1:4 for children aged 6 weeks to 2 years

  • 1:12 for children aged 2 to 6 years

To ensure optimal well-being and supervision, St. Mary's Montessori School provides enhanced staffing levels for children in the 0 to 3 age group. 

5. How do you help new students adjust during the first few weeks?  

St. Mary's is dedicated to ensuring each child's successful integration into our learning environment. 

  • Before a child's official start date, and in addition to an initial meeting with their teacher, mandatory pre-entry visits are scheduled. These visits provide the lead guide with valuable observation time to better understand the child's needs and anticipate their adjustment during the initial weeks. Furthermore, they allow the child to become acquainted with our staff, contributing to a more comfortable and confident first day. 

  • Upon enrollment, children receive individualized attention to facilitate their transition, including orientation to the classroom environment and resources. The lead guide will then begin presentations tailored to the child's developmental level. 

  • We maintain open and frequent communication with our parents, adopting a collaborative approach should a child require additional time to acclimate. We are proud of our high success rate in fostering confident and well-adjusted students as they embark on their educational journey.