The Mead School

My son completed the 2’s program at Canaan Ridge last year, and we are back for the 3’s program this year. We have found it to be an incredibly nurturing, wonderful place—just the right mix of a relaxed Montessori program with art and music that has provided him with a great introduction to school. My son loved doing daily well-planned art projects and enjoyed music lessons and story time. He loved his teachers and the principal and staff. Canaan Ridge has two beautiful playgrounds for sunny days and a large indoor play space when the weather is bad. Because of their small class sizes, they could tailor the teaching to each child and allow each child to progress according to his own abilities. For example, if a three-year-old showed interest in reading, a teacher worked individually with the child each day to foster their development. We also found the administration to be extremely flexible and accommodating.

This school has a serious bullying issue that they refuse to address. The administration has been made aware on many occasions that the girls will verbally and emotianally abuse individuals in certain grades, excluding and taunting. The administration talks about things they will do, but never address it.

I have two children at The Long Ridge School, and it has been a wonderful experience for our family. The community of teachers and staff is warm, attentive, and deeply committed to nurturing and supporting the students, creating an educational environment that kids genuinely get excited about. From day one, my children have come home eager to talk about what they learned and what they experienced each day.The school and faculty are exceptionally communicative and truly partner with parents. Weekly updates from teachers outlining curriculum and classroom experiences provide transparency and meaningful insight into the day-to-day life of the school. Community events broaden the experience to the families as a whole.Everyone—from the faculty to the staff—is kind, thoughtful, and invested in the students. Long Ridge is a special place for children to grow and learn during their most formative years. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Whitby is a wonderful little school tucked away in backcountry with the most amazing faculty and staff. The school's campus is intentionally unassuming and most importantly, my children wake up excited to go there each day. The Montessori Children's House may be Whitby's crown jewel - from the moment my children enrolled (at around 2 years old) their worlds expanded, as they were offered control of choices that as parents we don't consistently have time to give them at home. From their toddler years and now on to pre-school and Kindergarten, I've had the joy of watching this independence grow. Our family is excited for Whitby's bright future and our children's place in it.