St Joseph Montessori School

My 10 year old attended St. Joe's as a 3 and 4 year old. We then moved to a "nice" school district and put him into public schools. It will be a decision I regret for the rest of my life. Teacher after teacher told me my son had attention issues and suggested medication. You can imagine the emotional heart ache for both of us. Now, as a 5th grader we have transferred him to St. Joe's and we are sending my younger son (3) and step daughter (7th). I can't say enough about the teachers, the staff and the community of parents. They have welcomed us with open arms and we look forward to many years ahead. In his initial weeks at summer camp my son came home exited to learn for the first time in his life! If you are curious about the Montessori Method, I strongly encourage you to read up and/or come in for a tour.

We could not be more pleased with SJMS!Our children feel welcomed and appreciated by faculty, staff and students. They are challenged academically, and thriving socially and emotionally. SJMS provides a safe and nurturing environment which encourages curiosity, individuality, community, kindness and personal growth.For our children, SJMS is a haven where they are encouraged and given the support to be their best selves.

My children and I moved to Columbus from western Ohio where they attended a really wonderful Montessori. I, like an idiot, assumed that Columbus being a far larger metro area than where we moved from, would have many Montessori options. Mistake. So, my research begins, and I call St. Joseph Montessori with high hopes. I explain that I have two children I am looking to enroll, one whom is Autistic and a little slow to learn some things but has always been able to keep up. They are happy to meet with us so I schedule a visit. We toured the school, met with some of the teachers, and discussed some of the differences between the Montessori we came from and their program. They even met with the kids one on one and talked about how sweet they both were. Now, let's keep in mind some things - this school is a) a MONTESSORI...founded on principles of Maria Montessori who famously taught those who were cast off by society. Her methods were meant for EVERYONE. And b) this Montessori is affiliated with a CHURCH. "Love thy neighbor...well, not THOSE neighbors..."After I explain to those I had met with that my son is Autistic, the vibe changes. My child, who 5 minutes ago was "so sweet and funny...really creative!" was now getting pity eyes and the stare. Then, the decision... "Well, now that I look at our enrollment, we are already committed to too many kids in your [Autistic] son's grade and sometimes make exceptions but in this case we just wouldn't be able to accommodate him. (Interesting...you had room when I called to set up the appointment...hmm, that's a mystery) But, we would be happy to take your typical son."I think y'all need to read that Bible again. While you're at it, look up Maria Montessori and what she stood for - THE REASON YOU EXIST. I'll say a prayer for you.

St Joe's is a wonderful, loving community. Our daughter is very content here and the faculty and staff recognize her unique and lovely nature, as they do with the other children too. We were originally planning on sending her here for preschool only, but we're loving it so much we're strongly considering K-8 as well.