Near North Montessori School

I am thrilled to share my profound satisfaction and admiration for Near North Montessori, a school that truly excels in its dedication to diversity, exceptional programs, and a curriculum that goes above and beyond.One of Near North Montessori's standout qualities is its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The school warmly welcomes students from various cultural backgrounds, creating a vibrant and enriching community. This commitment not only mirrors the global nature of our society but also enhances the overall educational experience, promoting understanding and acceptance.The range of programs offered at Near North Montessori is truly impressive. From the early years to the upper grades, each program is thoughtfully designed to nurture a child's holistic development. The emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning is evident in every classroom, fostering a genuine love for learning that extends beyond textbooks. Whether it's in the arts, sciences, or extracurricular activities, Near North Montessori provides a well-rounded education that prepares students for a dynamic and ever-changing world.The curriculum at Near North Montessori is not only extensive but also goes deeper into subjects, promoting both breadth and depth of knowledge. The school's commitment to providing a comprehensive curriculum ensures that students not only acquire knowledge but also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The Montessori approach encourages independent thinking and exploration, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.The dedicated and passionate educators at Near North Montessori play a pivotal role in creating an environment where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Their commitment to each child's individual growth is evident in the personalized attention and encouragement provided to every student.In conclusion, Near North Montessori is more than just a school; it is a nurturing community that values diversity, offers exceptional programs, and provides a curriculum that surpasses expectations. As a Hispanic parent, I am confident that choosing Near North Montessori for my child's education was one of the best decisions I have made. I wholeheartedly recommend this outstanding institution to any parent seeking an enriching and inclusive educational experience for their child.

Once highly regarded and sought-after, NNM is now struggling to stay together. Nearly 75 families or 20% of the student body unenrolled at the end of the 22-23’ school year, in addition to the departure of dozens of teachers and directors. Each of the Heads of Schools instituted by the Board since 2021 failed miserably to uphold the school’s longtime mission and values. Once a place that offered a truly progressive, child-centered education, is now a group of adults who reject the ideals of independent thought and viewpoint diversity. This intolerance has led to division and resentment among staff, alumni, and parents, and the school’s complete unraveling. In addition, the Board & Heads of Schools have systematically pushed to elevate a so-called diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) program that in no way celebrates diversity in its pure form. As such, parents and teachers who have sought to have good-faith conversations about it have been denied any ability for authentic partnerships. Those who choose not to be defined by their immutable traits or to internalize an oversimplified and narrowly prescribed racial identity as the centerpiece of their educational experience, have moved on. My advice to parents: put your tuition dollars elsewhere.

Our family has been with the school for over five years and we are seriously considering leaving after the ‘23-24 school year. The ‘22-23 school year was heartbreaking and frustrating. The administration was terrible to teachers and to families. The administration has a “my way or the highway” mentality, the antithesis to a Montessori education. As a result, there is a culture of fear among parents and teachers. You cannot say anything critical about the administration without the fear of being called racist. The community that everyone has come to love is completely broken. The Board is more concerned about covering themselves and the school financially at the expense of the Montessori mission and values. I hope the new Interim Head of School that is starting in July ‘23 can turn things around, but it seems like the school will never be the same. We LOVED NNM and are so sad that we may have to leave.

The reviews of this school dated in 2021 or earlier are, unfortunately, outdated. This school is not what it once was under the leadership of Jackie Bergen, and it continues to struggle to maintain quality educators and supportive families. In the past couple years, there have been FOUR different Head of Schools - two of which were forced out. Nearly the entire 3-6 faculty resigned this year after being harassed into unsafe working conditions, and administration continuously ignores the professional insights and knowledge of the individuals in the classrooms. This school was once a Montessori school. It is now a private, competitive school looking for donors with deep pockets and conflict-avoidant educators who won't question or correct administration.

Our experience at Near North Montessori School has been incredible. Having two children, with an older one close to graduation, I can see how the amazing teachers and staff have stayed true to Montessori methods and created an amazing journey to help all children reach their inherent potential. This is a place where children feel valued and when they leave they ready to make their impact in the world. Of course they have impeccable math and reading skills but they also leave with excellent social justice and executive functioning skills. They are respectful, curious and excited. I never knew how much of a partner the school would be when our family entered the school's doors so many years ago and I feel grateful that they have partnered with us, through all the ups and downs, to make our children be the best they can be. I am so happy we chose Near North Montessori.