New Albany Montessori School

Three of my children have gone here as far back as 16 years ago and as recently as the past 3 years.My children are happy and at peace when I pick them up from school everyday. They never complain on a Monday or any other day about attending. They have grown academically in the most exceptional way. My 5 year old who has struggled with reading has been loved, supported and encouraged right where he is in his progress. All my children have been valued and grown emotionally and matured socially.My husband is hispanic and we have been extremely impressed by the attention given to learning and experiencing other countries and cultures. They have learned more Spanish in kindergarten at NAM and had more fun with it then they ever have at home. I am forever grateful to this school for nurturing my children at this crucial age.

I love Montessori principle and education system but this is not it. School management is very strict and not open minded. It's just not a fun, caring, welcoming environment for a 3 year old. My daughter really struggled to adjust and they handled the whole situation very very poorly. I would advise to avoid this place for youger kids.Preschool should not be about strict discipline, kids should be able to have a good time as they learn. There are so many cons we experienced in just few months but here are few-There is close to no diversity between students or staff.No pictures or updates on child throughout the day or even week you get class update email on Fridays (one pager with 2-3 pics total)Masks were required for all kids '21-'22 school year while most preschools and daycares were flexible.No food options provided. Very hectic pickup/drop off with a line up taking up to 20mins each time.Parents not allowed inside.They make child sit in principal office and not take part in activity/playground if he/she doesn't comply (time out or punishment is not Montessori philosophy)Most reviews and word of mouth in the area speaks to itself for this school (I had heard rigid, too strict, not flexible, not diverse but I still took the chance due to proximity and being the only Montessori within 10mile radius). I would highly encourage to research and look others in area. It is not a good Montessori environment. This is not Montessori..

The teachers are wonderful, and my son has really flourished there. My son has been in other good schools including, The Goddard School, but this is the first one where I have seen my son truly learn a lot and where he feels the teachers care about him. I am so thankful to have found this school. The best fit for my son after trying out several other nice places.