Yes, Apple Montessori Schools is accredited by the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS). Accreditation ensures that the school meets high educational standards, provides a rigorous and developmentally appropriate curriculum, and continuously improves its programs to support student success.

Apple Montessori Schools is a family-founded institution, founded in 1972 by Rex and Jane Bailey. In 2018, Apple Montessori Schools partnered with Spanos Barber Jesse & Co. (SBJ), a private investment firm. Our schools have upheld their legacy of providing high-quality Montessori education for over 50 years, emphasizing individualized learning, hands-on experiences, and nurturing environments for children.

Yes, Montessori education is highly beneficial for 2-year-olds. The Montessori approach focuses on independence, hands-on exploration, and self-directed learning, which aligns perfectly with a toddler’s natural curiosity and developmental needs. At this stage, children absorb information rapidly, refine motor skills, and develop early social behaviors. Apple Montessori Schools offer Toddler Programs starting at 18 months, providing a nurturing environment that fosters confidence, language development, and problem-solving skills.

The ideal age to start Montessori education is typically between 2.5 and 3 years old. This is when children enter what Maria Montessori called “sensitive periods” for learning, particularly in areas such as language, order, and sensory exploration. However, starting as early as 18 months or even earlier can be highly advantageous, as it helps children develop independence, curiosity, and a strong foundation for future learning.

The core concept of a Montessori school is "education for life"—helping children develop independence, creativity, and a love for learning. Montessori classrooms are designed to support self-paced, hands-on learning while nurturing curiosity and intrinsic motivation. Teachers act as guides rather than lecturers, allowing students to explore subjects in a way that feels natural to them.

The Montessori method was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator, in the early 1900s. She observed that children learn best when they are given the freedom to explore and discover at their own pace. She opened the first Montessori school, Casa dei Bambini (Children’s House), in 1907, where she implemented her scientifically designed, child-centered approach. Today, Montessori education is practiced worldwide, helping millions of children reach their full potential.

The primary goal of a Montessori school is to help children develop a lifelong love of learning while fostering independence, creativity, and social responsibility. Montessori schools aim to educate the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically—by providing a prepared environment where they can explore, discover, and grow at their own pace.

Yes, gifted children often thrive in Montessori environments due to the flexible, self-paced curriculum that allows them to explore subjects in greater depth. The emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and hands-on discovery aligns well with the natural curiosity and advanced learning abilities of gifted students. Additionally, Montessori classrooms provide the freedom to pursue complex topics without the constraints of traditional grade levels, making them ideal for gifted learners.

It’s reasonable to believe that all schools with the word “Montessori” in their name are similar. However, there are thousands of Montessori schools around the world (an estimated 20,000 schools total), and no two are exactly the same. Some offer only a preschool program, while others have programs through high school.Anyone can use the title “Montessori” in their school as the word isn’t trademarked. It’s true that many schools that bear the name adhere to the Montessori philosophy and best practices. Yet, others simply use the name without a commitment to the method behind it.

People sometimes confuse Montessori with the word “monastery.” Others may have heard of one religious Montessori school and then assume that all Montessori schools are religious. While Apple Montessori students are briefly introduced to different cultures and world religions through their geography studies, these studies (as well as lessons in grace and courtesy) are aimed to encourage children to respect the beliefs of others.

A Montessori classroom can seem unstructured because of the emphasis on following the child and the fact that children can choose their own work. However, just because children have some freedom doesn’t mean they can do whatever they want. In reality, Montessorilessons offered to children follow a carefully planned structure. The classroom itself is very structured as well, and each material is carefully kept in the classroom.Children have freedom as long as they follow the ground rules and routines in the classroom. The carefully constructed freedom within limits in our classrooms creates a beautiful and productive workspace where children can thrive.