The big picture on North Star Montessori Elementary School
We summarized the school ourselves
North Star Montessori Elementary School is the only school in the North Shore area offering an authentic Montessori elementary program, enriched by outdoor education and field trips. The school’s welcoming community benefits from dedicated teachers trained in Montessori methods, as well as small classes. The school is known for its individualized approach and the ability to ignite a deep love of learning, independence, and respect in students. Its curriculum surpasses BC grade-level standards, with specialized programs in French, music, and STEM. North Star Montessori also offers extensive physical education, integrated arts programs, and a variety of field trips. Parents are drawn to North Star for its nurturing environment and commitment to academic development. The school maintains a non-competitive atmosphere without traditional testing. North Star's education model focuses on developing well-rounded individuals, prepared for lifelong success with creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking skills.
We questioned the school administration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"An authentic Montessori program from birth to Gr. 7, we are committed to meeting the needs of each student. We foster a love of learning, independence and respect. The benefits and robust academic curriculum of the Montessori program extend beyond the walls of the classroom and the limits of the BC grade-level curriculum allowing students to meet their fullest potential. Practical experiences build confidence and inspire the self-motivation to 'learn' and 'do' which they carry with them throughout their lives."
A welcoming student-parent-teacher community
Programs include- infant & toddler, full and half day preschool , kindergarten and elementary
Specially trained & dedicated teachers committed to the development and well-being of each student
Robust and rigorous academic curriculum
Practical hands-on experience to reinforce concepts
Promotes creative and critical thinking skills in a non-coercive atmosphere
Fosters independent, self-motivated and goal-directed students with a life-long love of learning
Extensive Physical Education program
Fully integrated music and art programs
Wide-ranging and regular filed trips, classroom visitors, and community outings
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
We meet the social, academic, and developmental needs of each student in an exciting and engaging way. Students are seen as individual learners and their lessons are planned according to their own unique needs and learning styles. Specially trained teachers use the Montessori materials to create a lasting impression of concepts. Deeper exploration of concepts in a dynamic mixed-age classroom make learning fun!
"We meet the social, academic, and developmental needs of each student in an exciting and engaging way. Students are seen as individual learners and their lessons are planned according to their own unique needs and learning styles. Specially trained teachers use the Montessori materials to create a lasting impression of concepts. Deeper exploration of concepts in a dynamic mixed-age classroom make learning fun!"
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
Information not yet available.
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
Information not yet available.
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
Information not yet available.
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
Information not yet available.
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
Families choose North Star because of the warm, caring and inclusive environments in each of the classrooms. They notice from their first tour of the school that students at North Star are calm, focused, and happy. They are confident knowing that North Star is a recognized and authentic Montessori school with high-quality, experienced teachers, and appreciate that their child will be encouraged to strive beyond the academic boundaries of the BC grade-level curriculum.
"Families choose North Star because of the warm, caring and inclusive environments in each of the classrooms. They notice from their first tour of the school that students at North Star are calm, focused, and happy. They are confident knowing that North Star is a recognized and authentic Montessori school with high-quality, experienced teachers, and appreciate that their child will be encouraged to strive beyond the academic boundaries of the BC grade-level curriculum."
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
Information not yet available.
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
The huge social-emotional and academic benefits of the mixed-age classrooms- The
collaborative nature of student relationships across the ages provides inspiration and motivation to younger students, leadership opportunities and reinforcement of knowledge for older students and an elevated level of socialization skills for all students. It is a mutually beneficial relationship that more closely reflects the social dynamic in life outside of school.
"The huge social-emotional and academic benefits of the mixed-age classrooms- The
collaborative nature of student relationships across the ages provides inspiration and motivation to younger students, leadership opportunities and reinforcement of knowledge for older students and an elevated level of socialization skills for all students. It is a mutually beneficial relationship that more closely reflects the social dynamic in life outside of school."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
Given the non-competitive atmosphere with no traditional testing or homework, it can be surprising to new families that students are so academically advanced, and that grade level competencies are a base, not the ceiling for their child's potential. The way the lessons are presented and the exploratory nature of the Montessori Materials creates a lasting impression and solidifies knowledge.
"Given the non-competitive atmosphere with no traditional testing or homework, it can be surprising to new families that students are so academically advanced, and that grade level competencies are a base, not the ceiling for their child's potential. The way the lessons are presented and the exploratory nature of the Montessori Materials creates a lasting impression and solidifies knowledge."
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
Information not yet available.
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 6 (current) — Watch our parent interview with Caroline King to get the inside scoop on what it’s like to have a child attend North Star Montessori Elementary School.
Gr. 2 (current) — My child has thrived at North Star Montessori academically but more importantly, socially. The inclusive and supportive environment has seen her overcome profound sensitivity and anxiety. She is now a collaborative, outgoing child who feels confident in contributing in the classroom and in the playground. The teachers have always shown patience and guidance that has allowed her to grow, gain confidence and become a leader within the classroom. The structure of the Montessori classroom also provides endless opportunities for students to mentor younger students and to be mentored. As an only child, this was a wonderful opportunity to experience what a sibling relationship offers in terms of support and guidance. And for the children to feel proud of their ability to guide their younger peers.
Insider community voices
Hear directly from North Star Montessori Elementary School community as they share insights.
