Unfortunately, our experience at Countryside wasn't great. We learned very quickly that our 18 month old child (at the time) was constantly being restrained and the only child being restrained- which goes against the montessori philosophy. After 2.5 months, we immediately removed him of this institution, despite paying that hefty tuition. read more

Both of my children, who are now grown men, attended this incredible institution. They are absolute gentlemen, intelligent with tremendous common sense, and extremely successful. I attribute much of what they have become to the foundation education they received at Countryside. It breaks my heart to read some of these negative reviews because that's just not what this institution is at all. People need to realize the damage that can be done to a person or institution with just their words. read more

Our kids has been at Countryside for the past 5 years. The experience has been wonderful to this point. Everyone at the school, the teachers, administrators, etc., are extremely helpful and very responsive to inquiries. The teachers ensure that they stay engaged with the parents through conferences and emails. Countryside is by far the best fit for our two kids. The challenging academics suit them extremely well and through respect, responsibility and resourcefulness as well as the smaller student body they are thriving and learning to become young adults. I would and have recommend Countryside to anyone! read more

I am disappointed in myself for sending my children to this school. The school is VERY GOOD at selling itself and even better at extracting money for ALL of their needs and there are MANY. You will become an ATM. Glad we left when we did. read more

Our daughter attended CMS for eleven years (pre/elementary/middle school). She had an amazing experience there: everything from the teachers to staff, other students and parents. The primary function of school should be learning. CMS excels at this, of course, but it also excels at teaching children the love of learning. This is such a foundational piece of one's being. Countryside's teachers and staff embody the spirit in their essence. Our daughter learned at a very early age the foundation of Montessori: respect, responsibility and resourcefulness. They don't take the easy way, but they take the best way to teach children ways to be strong, independent and well educated. Our daughter has thrived due to their nurturing environment. She's gone on many service trips, become a silent leader and now in high school, still enjoys going to school every day and learning new topics. CMS instilled this into her (and us) at an early age and together we've watched her become a wonderful young adult. CMS may not be for everyone, but if you want to raise an independent, self confident young adult, please take the time to visit the school, talk with the teachers and staff and learn their perspective. They are professional educators and take this very seriously. We are not teachers. We are not professional educators. But it was quite clear when we first visited them, that they are professionals and are dedicated to their mission. We were fortunate to have watched the school transition from the original headmaster to the current headmaster (Wendy Calise) and the transition was as seamless as possible. We've also seen the middle school program develop with the addition of new staff and a new building. They've incorporated the core principles of Maria Montessori and have created a program that runs from their toddler program all the way through eight grade. The school puts so much back into the community, staff and parents. We always felt a part of the school and learned so much in how to best raise our daughter in a consistent environment with the school. We really could not have envisioned a better program for her! read more

Be careful before sending you child to this school. Honestly, it is seems more like a cult. We were lucky to pay attention and trust our child and take her out when we did. After a number of months of therapy and "deprogramming" we sent her back to a public school. She still feels some of the effects of Countryside. She still blames a lot on herself. The staff at Countryside call that "taking responsibility." She is relearning how to advocate for herself without fear. At Countryside, they throw the phrase around "advocate for yourself." Unfortunately, when the kids do , inevitably they get reprimanded and belittled. Parents, do not email your child's teacher on behalf of your child because it your child who will pay the price. There is no doubt that this facility is beautiful on the inside. It sucks you in. Please don't let it suck your child in too. read more

I pulled my child from the school after just a few weeks because the head of the school and teachers were arrogant and self serving. They put enormous pressure on my child to conform to their rigid expectations - they don't appreciate or embrace children as individuals. They were happy to see us leave but even happier to keep the ENTIRE tuition. Don't fall for their nonsense. I am referring to Countryside Montessori in Northbrook, where my child attended for all of six weeks. It took a long time for him to gain back his self confidence but he is now thriving and happy. Fortunately, not too much damage was done. read more

Our children have been attending Countryside Montessori for the past 10 years and it has truly been a wonderful experience for our children as well as for our family. When our oldest daughter was 2 1/2 we where looking for a school that could provide a safe and respectful environment as well as a great learning experience. As a nervous first time mom I researched and visited many schools. Countryside had a uniqueness about it that I didn't see or feel at the other schools I visited. I met with the teachers and head of school (owner) who did and still do impress me with their kindness, professionalism and knowledge about child behavior, which was clearly visible at the time of our many observations of our children, teacher-parent conferences, and many other occasions. Furthermore seeing older children helping younger children in the classrooms, Children" baking" at the age of 3, doing math and reading at the primary level and having assigned responsibilities at a young age just to name a few things, I couldn't wait to sign up my daughter. But i invite anybody to come to the school, so you can see for yourself. Our oldest daughter, who is now 13, graduated from the school 2 years ago, but still cherishes every moment she had there. She always refers to it as" her school". This kind of deep expression I attribute to the teachers and staff that she encountered through all the years attending Montessori. The teachers at the school continuously show knowledge and sincerity in pointing out strength and weaknesses in the our children. Furthermore they are willing to discuss and help with these issues, because there is always a open line of communication. Having still two other children in this school, and seeing how much they exhibit a love for learning, show respectfulness and resourcefulness, I know in my heart that we are at the right school. read more

There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of Countryside and feel grateful that my children were able to experience WHAT SCHOOL SHOULD BE. My children attended their primary AYM classroom and elementary classroom, but unfortunately we had to move out of state. Otherwise, we would have been at Countryside through the Middle School and probably would have BEGGED them to build a high school, LOL! If I had to use one word to express what Countryside meant to is, it is BELONGING. My children had a community that resembled an extended family, with older and younger students interacting on a daily basis, being responsible for and accountable to each other. My children knew the value of things because they were the ones taking care of their environment. They had respect for authority (that is so difficult to instill these days!) and in turn were expected and nurtured to be leaders themselves. They were not expected to regurgitate taught material and scramble for grades, instead they dove into the lessons and topics that brought out their inner grit and desire to know more. They were pushed when they needed to develop self-discipline to complete tasks and commitments and given the freedom when they had demonstrated they had earned it. There was nothing cookie-cutter about this educational environment; indeed, it felt like every child in this school has their own individualized plan. At Countryside, every child is met where the child is. Everything the teachers and staff do has a purpose, a larger meaning that weaves into the three pillars of Countryside's philosophy - respect, resourcefulness, and responsibility. The educators here see your children not just the age your children are; from the start they envision your children as adults and the potential that they hold. Speaking of BELONGING, we also felt immeasurably supported and encouraged as parents. The community in this school is strong and vibrant, incredibly inclusive and interpersonal. We benefited greatly from parent evenings and group gatherings to support us in the relentless task of parenting. I personally feel Countryside helped me grow a stronger spine as a parent and be a better leader for my children. We are forever grateful for Countryside. In fact, upon our move, we specifically sought out another Montessori school because we have become believers in this excellent methodology and are confident we will reap the benefits for years to come. read more

Our two sons have been going to countryside montessori for about 7 months. So far I am amazed how great the school is. From the teachers to the regular staff pure excellence. I don't know how anyone can say anything negative. Our kids are more respectful, independent and a lot more advanced in their education. What I like the most is that the school does not just focus on academics, they teach the kids to become better student, brothers sisters and friends to one another. My husband and I also learned how to become better parents. We get invited to seminars with amazing speakers, and a lot of school activities. read more

As new parents to the CMS community, we could not be happier with the results we have seen in our daughter! On a weekly basis! As another parent noted, the decision to attend a Montessori based school is not for everyone. What I have noticed (in the general student body), is an overall sense of enthusiasm for daily life and learning. Since starting her program in September, my daughter (who's nearly 2) is enthusiastic to help cook, clean, read, and write (as well as any toddler can, I suppose). I have not necessarily witnessed that kind of enthusiasm (or resourcefulness) out of children who attend other learning facilities at that age. Not that I am being judgmental - as I said, this type of program is either for your child/family, or not. The learning is very self directed. Some may consider it strict, or harsh...but it instills qualities that have become a lost art in our society: children/teenagers/young adults who can think and work independently. Free thinking is at the heart of this school. I would strongly recommend it. They even offer some great summer camp options! read more

My children have attended Countryside for 7 years. We started in the primary program, when my oldest was 4 years old. He had a slow start, and we had a wonderful experience with his teacher, as she tried to figure out how best to get him engaged. We enjoyed all the parent education meetings, which did include mingling with the teacher and fellow parents, but also gave us the tools to be better parents. As our children have entered the Elementary program, we have been amazed at how quickly they have mastered new subjects, well ahead of their public school peers, and how well they are learning to be good citizens. The school really believes in their 3 pillars of respect, responsibility and resourcefulness. My children are living proof! read more

3 stars for the teachers. 1 star for lovely landscaping. Minus 2 stars for the administration. Guess I'll go with a 2 star. Despite my feelings about the school administration I do have to be fair to the teachers and give thanks to those teachers who actually care about families and children. There are some amazingly wonderful teachers at this school. I would give the teachers more stars but I fear it may mask my disdain for the administration. I could reaffirm nearly all the derogatory opinions found here in yelp of that of the administration as well as back them up with proof of their behavior but they simply are not worth the time or effort. This is enough. Just know that several parents who bought into the BS the administration spews found out just exactly what kind of school they are running...the hard way. Don't be fooled. I'm so glad my child isn't at this school any longer. There are lots of better options. read more

This place is run by a group of very arrogant people - they simply ignore any concerns/suggestions you have about your kids, no feedback is provided either. If your child is absent for any reason - sickness, vacation, etc, nobody calls you to find out how your child is doing, etc. In addition, almost every teacher/assistant have 1 - 3 their own kids in this place free of charge, so, essentially, you are paying for their kids as well. read more

This is one of the finest schools in the Northshore area and finest Montessori schools in the nation. My children have gone to school there for over five years and I was shocked to read the negative review in all aspects. Throughout the five years, we have been able to experience all the grade levels and have had close contact with all of the administrators and they have truly been partners with us. One of the the strengths we value the most in the school is the continuity of the staff and their willingness to always be available to talk. The classrooms structure is comprised of a head teacher and an assistant. In an effort to provide consistent communication with the parents the head teacher is the main contact with the parents( i appreciate having one contact for continuity). This is an International Certified Montessori school, unlike many others in the area. THis means that the school follows the original Maria Montessori teachings and has not made changes to the curriculum or materials. I truly appreciate this because it is very easy to year after year change things in your school based on parent complaints or low enrollment while sacrificing the original cores and values. Countryside Montessori is lucky to have had for over fourty years two of the nicest most professional people I have ever met that hold the original Montessori teachings dear to their hearts, therefore, making sure that the school is International Certified. Many of the other Montessori schools in the area are only AMI (American certified). The American Certification is much more flexible in upholding the original standards developed by Maria Montessori. Another procedure I treasure in the school is that there is only one fundraising event in the year that parents are told about before they agree to send their children there. All parents and staff are expected to contribute to this fund whatever amount they are able to (there is a suggested amount but it is truly a suggestion). This fund is common is the private school sector, it s to make up for the deficit between tuition and the capital fund. This allows the school to keep tuition down so more families can afford to send their children there while other families that can contribute more to this fund help make up the difference. There are NO OTHER requests for money throughout the year from the school, as a busy parent I truly appreciate this. Finally, I mentioned finest school in the nation, I am a school teacher elsewhere and I have visited several schools in the country and even montessori schools overseas and I can truly say that this school upholds 100% what they promise to provide in their mission and it is one of the most welcoming schools I have visited. I would be happy to discuss our experience in more detail directly with anyone interested in the school, feel free to email me as a parent. read more

Countryside Montessori is a great institution that lives up to its motto providing children with the tools to achieve respect, responsibility and resourcefulness. The teachers provide an excellent environment for education and are at the forefront in their field. My child has excelled leaps and bounds in comparison to many her age. I highly recommend this institution to friends and family. read more

Last year we switched my daughter from a Winnetka public school system to Countryside Montessori. The teachers, the atmosphere, the value system and their emphasis on instilling responsibility & confidence has significantly impacted my daughter in a positive way. It has been a wonderful transformation for our family!! read more

Based on three phone calls with the school to learn more information, this is not a place I would send my kids. Their website states incorrectly that Primary school is for 3-6 year olds and there is a half-day option. Then it shows Elementary School is for Grades 1+ (must be 6 by Sept 1st). One would assume looking at this that a kindergartener (5 by Sept 1st) would fall into Primary where there is a half day - it says right there on their website! In fact, they act like you are crazy when you say this and don't seem to listen to the customer on the phone. They don't seem interested in selling the school and only want to tell you two things: 1) we only do full day kindergarten and 2) you must commit to the full 7 years elementary school. These are the only pieces of information the admissions director wanted me to know. Really? Is there not anything else important about your school? I decided there was not. She didn't seem to care. And these are people who are going to teach my children social skills? Think twice before going here. read more

I am surprised about the negative reviews. Please schedule an appointment, meet with them and make your own judgment. Our three kids are at CMS and our experience has been exceptional. They are models for other school, that is why they have so many teacher around the world come to train. Our kids are resourceful, respectful and independent (the concept they integrate in every aspect of their teaching). It is also a great community for parents to network and share information. If you are expecting the typical public school struture, you are not going to get it there. The classes consists of kids with different ages, they learn from each other. If the kids masters something they can easily move to the next level, older kids mentor younger ones and younger ones look up to the older ones. They learn about leadership. Unlike some of the comments, they do listen to you, in fact there is an ongoing communication between us and the teachers. However, they are professionals, their staff are well trained. That is what I look for, not that they listen to every parent that comes in and suggest anything. read more

Upon moving from the city to the north shore, I researched and toured nearly every private school for my two young children. I found Countryside to be totally different and genuinely philosophy-driven. These people believe in what they and are experts at their craft: the Montessori Method. Their teacher turnover is exceptionally low, which I find to be a key indicator of a happy community. Because they do not bend with the trends in education, the school may not be the right fit for every kid, especially those parents who want to do everything for their kids long after it's developmentally appropriate. But if you want your kids to learn to be resourceful, responsible, and respectful, consider checking out Countryside. The admissions process is lengthier than you might find at other private schools, but that's because they are trying to ensure that it's the right fit for your child and your family. read more

I have been a parent of a child (now two) at this school since 2009. Each year I am more impressed with the achievement my children can reach under their structure. Aware or not of the Montessori philosophy, this is a school you should consider! The school's focus is on Respect, Responsibility, and Resourcefulness. And never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined I would see such dedication to those principles in both my now 10 year old AND my 3 year old. My younger is eager to "do" (fold) his own laundry, and contribute to many other household chores. His all time favorite is setting the table for dinner. My older child is so academically advanced that I took her to an external (Northwestern) testing location to see how she compares. When in the 3rd grade, she tested in the 75th percentile of 7th-8th testing standard taken that same year overall (85th in reading & comprehension). I am very grateful that we found Countryside. The only other "R" I would add is RESULTS. This school delivers! I am overjoyed to hear, over and over, from extracurricular class teachers, and public settings, "your child is a true joy, so well behaved, and helpful." read more