Frequently Asked Questions

The Answers You Need

Check out a few of our most common questions below from previous students and families. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to get in touch and we’ll get you the information you need.

What is Montessori?

Montessori is an educational philosophy and approach to learning focusing on the whole child. The Montessori method of education is holistic and self-paced, it was developed in 1907 by Dr. Maria Montessori who was the first female Italian physician. Through her observations, Dr. Montessori found consistent, naturally developing tendencies and characteristics that would serve as the foundation for the creation of prepared environments. These prepared environments, along with the prepared guides creates a classroom community culture to encourage and support the realization of childrens’ full potential. There are more than 20,000 Montessori schools in 110 countries. The Montessori method promotes curiosity and supports self-engagement through using concrete hands-on materials. Montessori education builds a solid foundation for life and creates an intrinsic motivation for learning.

Can I schedule a school visit?

What ages do you take?

Our program welcomes ages 2.5-6-years old.

How much is school tuition?

Monthly tuition options for the 2023-2024 school year are:
Monday-Thursday 8am-3pm $1220
Monday-Friday 8am-12:30pm $900
Included in the tuition is art supplies, STEM materials, annual project materials, and twice daily organic snacks.

What are the days and hours of operation and do you have an aftercare program. 

LMS is open M-F 8:00am-3:00pm. We do not currently have an aftercare program.

Does my child need to be potty trained to join your classroom?

Yes, your child needs to be fully potty trained and actively using the toilet on their own. Our classroom has a child accessible bathroom.

Do you have enough outside time playing?

Yes. There are many opportunities for fresh air. We have scheduled minimum of 30 minute daily recess on our playground. We also have garden activities and specific works that are done outside during the work session. When it rains we still go outside for recess wearing proper rain gear.

Do you follow the Portland or Beaverton school district calendar?

We closely follow the Beaverton School District Calendar.

If you fill up early, how soon can I apply?

We encourage families to check with us a full year in advance prior to their child's third birthday to see if there is space available and to secure a spot in our classroom.

What is the maximum number of children enrolled in the classroom?

We have a maximum number of 10 children in the classroom.

What is the re-enrollment process like and when is that deadline?

Children who are currently enrolled will have priority over any incoming new students to re-enroll in April. Siblings of current students also have priority over any new families. 

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What is a three-hour work cycle?

The main purpose of the three-hour work cycle is to provide the time necessary for your child to become fully immersed in their work. A work cycle often consists of several different works chosen and completed within that window of time. Allowing them the time to achieve full concentration and to get into the "flow" of their work provides them a more meaningful learning experience. 

Can I send cookies and treats in my child's lunch?

At LMS we promote healthy eating habits and encourage to start these habits at a young age. We provide organic healthy snacks daily as well as organic milk for lunch. Sugary food such as cookies and treats are not allowed at school as they distract from learning and can effect behaviors.

Can my child bring pillows and stuffed animals to school for napping?

We do encourage you to bring a special blanket for nap. However we do not allow outside stuffed animals or pillows for nap time. Pillows take up too much storage space in the classroom and stuffed animals we find can be distracting to others who are trying to rest. Blankets are sent home weekly to be washed.

Is enrollment required for all 3 years of the program?

We do not require a 3 year commitment, it is more of a suggestion and something recommended following after Dr. Maria Montessori's research and lifetime work of developing a philosophy and education based on child development.  Our intent is for all enrolled families to commit to long-range educational goals and full completion of the program in which the child is enrolled, typically two to three years at the primary level. We prioritize enrollment based on this commitment in order to best support the child by providing a complete Montessori experience. The Montessori classroom works so well in large part of the multi-aged classroom environment. Children who are 3rd year students in the primary classroom have the opportunity to foster more independence, build stronger leadership skills, and be a role model to the younger members of our school. This can be very empowering for them and instill a great deal of confidence. Being with us for this 3rd year also provides them more opportunity to build upon the essential social, emotional, and strong communication life skills while working in our classroom environment.