San Marco

When compared to many other schools with the excessive testing, HW and underappreciated and overworked teachers, this place is a god sent. Since Montessori is self-paced, we like that our older child can excel in any area she wishes to and then pace herself with others she's still working on. The teachers are everything here, as they should be. The Children's House teachers for the 2-3 year olds, Viviana and Donna, are so loving and compassionate. My 3 year old loves being hugged and nurtured by them and is becoming such a funny, loving and smart kid. She beams with laughter and smiles when I pick her up. She loves to sing songs from class and the teaching methods they use are clearly working as she's very good at puzzles, expressing herself, taking care of her body and potty training was amazing here! Then there are two 3-6 year old classes. We had Mindy and this woman is like the dog whisperer for kids. She just gets them. Her methods are top notch and the way she brings her personal passions like speaking and singing in Spanish, knitting and having the kids do QUALITY projects and work is just so refreshing. Not to mention, all the kids adore her. She is warm and nurturing, but fair and firm. Our conference meetings were always filled with laughter, tears and true respect for the roles we all play in that kid's life. Since there is not a middle school, many parents will face the challenge of, "what's next" and I see most leave after kindergarten to complete the 3-6 year cycle. The 1-6th grade levels are much smaller with only a handful of kids per grade, if that. But again, good quality teaching, learning, a loving environment and ongoing bi-monthly farm trips where the kids have to work and learn about growing food. I get this may not be for all parents, but even if you can only afford until Kindergarten, I would highly recommend!