McDonald Montessori School

My son transferred to McDonald Montessori from another Montessori school and it has been the best thing in the world for him. His anxiety dropped tremendously and he really, really enjoys going to school now. He was like a completely different child after the transition. The lower elementary classroom runs so smoothly and the children learn so much in an environment that doesn't seem pressured or intense. My son is blossoming both academically and socially at McDonald Montessori and we will be very sad at the end of third grade when he has to move on.

I consider finding McDonald Montessori one of the great gifts of my life. I know that sounds hyperbolic, but it's absolutely true. Ellen and her staff are devoted to their students in a way that I've never seen before. I have two EXTREMELY different children who both attend MMS and are blossoming before my eyes. My daughter was never going to flourish in an environment where she had to sit still for hours a day and stare at a screen, memorizing memorizing memorizing. At MMS, she's free to wiggle, walk, sing, read, write, draw, paint and, as a result, she loves to learn. My son is more serious and methodical and he's so happy there too. When I have gone to observe, I'm amazed by the peace and solitude in the classroom. The children are all so engaged that the frenetic energy that seems to surround modern childhood completely disappears. I couldn't recommend them more highly.

Seriously, as good as it gets. This is my child's third school in Norfolk, so I have recent contact with the methods of other local preschools and elementary schools. I am also a local resident of 40+ years in Norfolk. I know what schools are out there and what other parents say. Obviously I toured many and HANDS DOWN, this is the most amazing program!!!

The atmosphere is cozy and nurturing. The feedback from the teachers is always presented in a positive manner, even if the issue is an area met with challenges. The teachers and staff are entirely helpful, talented and dedicated to your child loving the process of learning, what many experts believe to be the key to later academic successes (and success in life, for that matter).

Examples are everything so these are some of my favorites:

When entering first grade, my child's teacher referred to him as an emerging reader, not a late reader, as some schools would tell you. That small difference in word choice means everything. Instead of worrying, you are empowered. She went above an beyond throughout the summer to help him, at her own suggestion :-) He also receives after school guitar lessons from another teacher. When I mentioned he likes to write his own songs, she reviewed his written lyrics, collaborated on a melody, then wrote the tabs, so that he could learn his own compositions. Bottom line, this is such an incredibly supportive academic environment.

Four years ago when he was enrolled in the Children's House program, my plans were to have him matriculate to a larger private or public school after kindergarten. Well, we are now in second grade and our current plan is to stay as long as we can! Last year his class created a fundraiser for endangered species (their choosing) and when the teacher offered them a celebration budget, they ALL wanted to put it toward a slumber party at the school with their teachers :-) They did have the party minus the spending the night at school part. On occasion, my son is actually sad when I tell him there is no school today.

If your child does not respond well to the Montessori method or you are not sold on it, that's a different conversation entirely. Yes, it is a small school, but even acclaimed author Malcom Gladwell, in his book Outliers, has case studies that prove students excel more effectively in the "big fish, small pond" scenario. I could go on and on. Take a tour!

Small school that has a warm feel. The method of teaching and adherence to Montessori principles was not executed properly. No extended day offered for Children's House students unless they are selected into a small group. A lot of focus is put on where the child fit in socially and not academically. Did not feel it was the right fit for my child.

It's unfortunate the other reviewer had such a negative review. MM's reputation in the community stands up against the undeserved 2 stars Ashley gave them,but for those not familiar with the program, let me add my review.
Firstly, I wonder how long her child was in the program. Secondly, I would venture to say there must have been some unknown issues that influenced her review. I don't think we have the full story here. So take it with a grain of salt.
We joined the MM family 6 years ago with my first child who is now eight. She completed a three year cycle before we transferred her to Larchmont elementary. Our second child is in his third year there. We have had plenty of time to observe the practices of the teachers and other staff.
The school does have a very warm feel and is very inviting and family oriented. I do agree there. For those experienced with Montessori principles, understand it is not a right fit for all children. So you should be familiar with the concept and your child's personality/abilities. MM's staff execute these principles effectively, which can be supported by documented child outcomes and individual goals met. As a child progresses, they can move up to extended day. I would venture to say, her claim that students are moved up based solely on social appropriateness rather than academics is unfounded. This seems completely out of character for the staff, who's focus is child growth and maturation in both academics and social interactions. Again, I suspect there is more to the story here. In fact, my son is sometimes (most of
the time) an immature 5 year old , but smart. He has a lot of room for improvement socially and starts extended day this year. I have full confidence the school would have not moved him up if he was not capable.
Overall, we have been very satisfied with our children's education at the school. It has prepared my eldest who is doing very well at Larchmont and I expect the same for the youngest. Ashley's comment that the school was not a right fit for her child is probably correct. I argue that her dissatisfaction with the school is due to a personal situation and is not representative of the school overall. I would highly recommend this school without reservation.

This is our son's second Montessori school and it is amazing. The families are really close and you really feel a connection with the teachers and school. The programs here are really well planned and executed and I've been really pleased and impressed with my son's growth. I highly recommend this facility!