Academics and teachers are top notch. Administration is good, can't imagine a school would be run any better. However, your experience here is very dependent on your situation going into the school. There is a lot of affluence here as you can imagine, and you'll be exposed to that as parents, and your kid will as well. For most of the parents and kids at the school, its a world they are comfortable with. For those not in that circle, you will quickly realize that it's not your circle...and your kid will too. Towards the end of our time here, our daughter was old enough to understand these things, and that was very disappointing to us. It's a private school with all that it entails; that needs to be understood before deciding on sending your child here. While a good school, it's not for everyone. read more

Dear readers, as an individual who attended this school in the past, I must honestly express that I find it to be an unsatisfactory investment for your child's education. My time at SCM was quite extensive, but I eventually transferred to another institution due to the persistent issue of bullying, which remained prevalent from 1st to 6th grade without any effective intervention from the school administration. During my time in 6th grade, I endured both physical and mental bullying to such an extent that it necessitated my admission to a Mental Health Hospital for various reasons. Shockingly, the three girls responsible for this reprehensible behavior faced no consequences, resulting in me missing out on my graduation day and celebration due to their actions. This unfortunate reality extended to my friend as well, as he was also targeted and compelled to switch schools. Moreover, it is important to note that I am autistic and suffer from a chronic illness that causes severe pain when walking or running. Regrettably, the school disregarded my condition and failed to provide any support or accommodation during times of autistic meltdowns. I found their indifference towards my physical and emotional struggles disheartening and disconcerting. When I requested alternative activities during physical education classes to alleviate my chronic pain, the school administration threatened to involve my parents, rather than understanding and addressing my health concerns with compassion and empathy. In terms of education, I observed a significant emphasis on the subjects in which students demonstrated proficiency, while minimal effort was made to help students struggling in other areas. This unbalanced approach hindered overall academic growth and development. In conclusion, my personal experience at this school was largely negative, and I believe there are superior educational establishments available. However, it is essential to recognize that individual experiences may vary, and some individuals might find benefit in this environment. Regardless, I urge prospective parents and students to exercise caution and carefully consider their options before making a decision. read more

I love this school. Both kids attend and it's amazing to see their growth. 1) Academics. Both of my children are excelling, far beyond their (elementary) grade level. There is limited testing in the classroom (it's not a part of traditional Montessori education) but what standardized tests they have taken haven't been much of a challenge. Science training is natural and integrated and the children love it. My kids have begun to do long division using sidewalk chalk in their spare time -- the love of math they learned at school is leaking over into the playground! 2) Arts and Language. Kids are speaking French and Spanish respectively. They've learned to love speaking and performing in front of audiences, in part due to the school theater performances. They decided to play instruments last year with no prompting. 3) Diversity. Economic and ethnic diversity are a core value of the school. I know that financial aid is widely distributed so don't be too off-put by the tuition costs. By interacting with a broad range of folks, my kids culturally adept, too, and respectful of each other and of differences in their peers. 4) Environment. The school facilities are great and the classrooms full of interesting stuff. I want to stay and work every time I visit a classroom. Addressing some of the issues from other reviews: ---------------------------------------------------------- Cost. Yes, private school isn't free. But the widespread use of financial aid helps make the classrooms as economically diverse as possible. A few years ago the school made sure that families knew that even folks making more than $100K/yr might receive financial aid. Bullying. Honestly, I've never seen it at this school. One review said that "disinterested teachers" allowed lots of bullying in multi-age classrooms. Poppycock! This isn't an school where bullying occurs or is tolerated. The adult-to-student ratio at this school is great and teachers are actively engaged in helping students work out interpersonal issues and disagreements. Students (and parents) are encouraged to discuss anything that makes them uncomfortable with the staff immediately! read more

My two kids have been at SCM since they were 18 months old... and now, years later, we're incredibly happy that we've had a chance to be a part of this school. SCM has an absolutely stellar educational programme that ranges from 18 months to 8th grade. We've been really pleased with the quality of the staff, the facilities, and the curriculum. My kids love the school, too, and are bummed they can't go every day, even weekends! I believe the Montessori method is helping my kids grow and learn in a way that many other educational systems do not. Plus, I have a lot of trust and respect for the school which has only grown over the years. I'd heard good things about this school when I lived in Colorado (they have a wide and excellent reputation) and my (high) expections have definitely been met! read more

What a great school! It teaches children a love for learning that will help them throughout their lives! Most people don't know, but they offer financial aid. So don't let the thought of "private school" scare you off! read more

I went here as a child, and it was my dream for my kids to go here. They got in last year, with some much needed help from the financial aid. My girls are doing amazing, I have NO complaints and couldn't be happier. The environment, teachers, administration, policies.... everything is perfect. I had my girls in another Montessori school locally the previous year and although I feel it was better than just an in-home daycare type option, it can't even begin to compare to SCMS. I think the best way they stand apart from the other 'montessori' schools locally is their attitude toward the children. They genuinely care about the child's best interest. Above the money, which was the main issue I had with the previous school. SCMS CARES about my kids. I know I won't be able to afford to keep them here once they reach public school age, but if I could squeeze enough hours in the day to get a second FT job just to pay to keep them here I would. I can tell they are being set up for an amazing future. A 'lifelong love of learning'. It actually makes me sad to think they can't stay for the duration of their school years. This is a TRUE Montessori. No other place in the area can even begin to compare. read more

We, and our 6 and 8 year old girls, absolutely love it here. The high teacher ratios, beautiful buildings, and child centered pace are such a breath of fresh air compared to our previous school experiences. Our kids love to go to school, love to read, love to act in the school plays, and just overall love to learn here. All of our teachers have been awesome. Financial aid is good and fosters a financially diverse and wonderful community. We struggled a lot with the decision to send our kids here vs public school and we don't regret it for a moment. If you are thinking about t I would strongly recommend going on a tour and seeing what you think. One final thought- if your kids are younger the price of here vs other daycare options isn't very different (compared to the public school vs here choice for older kids) and the learning experience is awesome, especially for the just pre-K ages. read more

Our 9 and 12 year old children have been attending SC Montessori for three years, and are now in their fourth. We moved here from public school in hopes of a more individualized learning program, and we have not been disappointed. Not only are they learning at their own pace, they are learning important lifelong skills in independence, self motivation, confidence, tolerance and kindness. Above all, SC Montessori and our children's guides (teachers) have fostered a love for learning in our children, and for that we are deeply grateful. If you are considering Santa Cruz Montessori, I highly recommend taking a tour of the campus to see all of the different aged children at work. It truly is a beautiful sight to see. read more

What a great school. This is our 4th year there and we're planning on keeping our kids here through junior high. The Montessori Method seems like such a natural way to help children learn, with skills progressing from on step to the next, building on what was mastered earlier. I love the mixed age classrooms so that children can develop social skills and learn from each other. I love how children learn at a pace that matches their needs. I love the well-rounded curriculum, covering not only math and language skills, but also geography, science, Spanish, art, P.E., history, and world cultures/beliefs. The drama program is amazing. I would highly recommend this school. read more

We have been at SC Montessori for 9 years, ever since our children were toddling around. We took a year off and went to kindergarten at public school. That experience nearly erased my son's self-esteem. And that's what is so great about Montessori. Self-expression is nurtured, parents are supported, and my kids come home joyful and excited. There is no greater peace of mind. And the staff are lovely, considerate humans. We consider it home. read more

Santa Cruz Montessori is an exceptional school at all levels of academia. My boys (2 year old twins) have gained some of the most important skills and knowledge from some of the most wonderful people I have ever met - their teachers. My boys have been loved and cared by genuinely loving teachers and staff at Santa Cruz Montessori. I have experienced many different levels of daycare from my 9 year old daughter from previous years and have visited many of the most highly recommended daycare/preschool sites in Santa Cruz County; all of which, can not compare to the quality care and attention SCM has to offer. Every staff member on campus is respectful, compassionate, and educated with a Bachelors or Masters degree. The facilities are the most cleanest and organized I have ever seen. My kids never get sick, they are very well fed and always kept clean and dry. I love Santa Cruz Montessori!! Morgan Spivey (YCC Teacher) is an absolute gem to the school. She is very professional and dedicated to her students.. She knew my son as much or more than I knew him. Parent teacher conferences were heartwarming and remarkably surprising to me, as she would talk about my son with such love, compassion, and patience. I can keep on writing about her, but all I can say.. Santa Cruz Montessori is not just a daycare or preschool, but it's family! read more

Santa Cruz Montessori - Elementary Schools Near Me - Aptos, California

Our children age 8 and 6 have been at Santa Cruz Montessori for six and four years respectively. Every day they receive the attention and support they need to fulfill their potential. The teachers know our kids intimately and we receive detailed reports on their progress every few months. Our kids have made great friends through the school and we have met many wonderful families over the years. We are thankful to be part of this supportive and generous community. I highly encourage you to take a tour and find out about Santa Cruz Montessori. read more