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A Lifetime of Happiness and Success Starts Here

For over 50 years, families have trusted in Apple Montessori’s mission to educate, enrich and inspire children to reach their fullest potential as kind, independent, curious and happy individuals.

Our Mission

To enrich and inspire children to reach their fullest potential as kind, independent, confident and curious individuals, for a lifetime of happiness and success.

Our History

Founded by Rex and Jane Bailey in 1972, Apple Montessori Schools has been proudly serving and refining the early education experience ever since. We have been recognized and affirmed through accreditation by the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS). Our educators have proudly set the foundation for a lifetime of happiness and success for thousands upon thousands of children helping them thrive in the classroom and beyond.

“Our children have both had a great time at Apple I would recommend this school to anyone who is interested in a really academic preschool. They also are so loving and nurturing they are the complete package.”

Deena McClelland

Google

FAQ

Is Apple Montessori Schools accredited?

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.

Who owns Apple Montessori Schools?

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.

Is Montessori good for 2-year-olds?

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.

What is the best age to start Montessori education?

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.

Why is Montessori so expensive?

Montessori education tends to be more expensive than traditional schooling due to several key factors:

  • Specialized Materials: Montessori classrooms use unique, high-quality learning materials that encourage hands-on discovery. These materials are durable and scientifically designed, andthey support cognitive development.
  • Lower Student-to-Teacher Ratios: Montessori schools prioritize individualized attention, requiring more teachers per student compared to traditional schools.
  • Teacher Training & Certification: Montessori educators undergo extensive training to understand child development, implement individualized lesson plans, and facilitate self-directed learning.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Montessori programs offer a well-rounded education that includes practical life skills, cultural studies, and social-emotional development alongside academic subjects.
Is Montessori worth the cost?

For many families, Montessori is absolutely worth the investment due to the long-term benefits it offers. Research suggests that Montessori students often excel academically, demonstrate higher levels of creativity, independence, and critical thinking, and develop strong social-emotional skills. The self-paced, hands-on approach fosters a lifelong love of learning, which can be invaluable in a child’s educational journey.

What is the difference between a Montessori school and a regular school?

Montessori schools differ from traditional schools in several significant ways:

  • Child-Centered vs. Teacher-Led: Montessori classrooms focus on self-directed learning, allowing children to explore subjects at their own pace, whereas traditional schools follow a structured, teacher-led curriculum.
  • Mixed-Age Classrooms: Montessori environments encourage peer learning by grouping children of different ages, promoting mentorship and collaboration.
  • Hands-On Learning: Instead of rote memorization, Montessori education emphasizes experiential learning through interactive materials.
  • Focus on Independence: Montessori fosters problem-solving skills and self-motivation, encouraging children to take ownership of their education.
What is the concept of a Montessori school?

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.

How did Montessori start?

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.

What is the main purpose of a Montessori school?

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.

What are the different levels of Montessori education?

Montessori education is divided into several stages:

  • Infant Program (6 weeks – 18 months): Focuses on sensory development, movement, and early socialization.
  • Toddler Program (18 months – 2.5 years): Encourages independence, language development, and practical life skills.
  • Primary (Preschool/Kindergarten, 2.5 – 6 years): Lays the foundation for academics, social skills, and problem-solving.
  • Elementary (6 – 12 years): Expands on academic subjects through experiential learning and research-based projects.
  • Adolescence (12 – 18 years, in some Montessori schools): Encourages real-world learning and self-directed exploration.
Do gifted children do well in Montessori?

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.

Are all Montessori schools the same?

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.

Are Montessori schools religiously affiliated?

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.

Do Montessori students have complete freedom to do whatever they want?

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, Montessori lessons 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.

Our Values

INTEGRITY

  • Children first
  • Act with honesty
  • Trust others
  • Be respectful and fair

PASSION

  • Show daily determination
  • Be positive and open-minded
  • Make a difference
  • Show grit

CARING

  • Care for families
  • Be protective
  • Meet every child’s needs
  • Show caring that students can emulate

EXCELLENCE

  • Pursue excellence in ourselves
  • Pursue excellence in our teachers
  • Maintain the best curriculum possible