FAQs

How is a Montessori classroom different?

Montessori classrooms are multi-aged and structured into three-year cycles. It is an environment that has been specially designed to meet the child’s developmental needs at that age level. Concepts that we now know lead to successful outcomes socially, emotionally, and academically, such as hands-on materials, uninterrupted time to work, and an element of choice, have been part of Montessori schools for over 100 years. In fact, one of the more gratifying aspects of being a Montessori school in 2025 is the amount of outside research that supports this proven pedagogy.

How does a Montessori school ensure a well-rounded education if the child chooses their own work?

While Montessori students have choice and autonomy over what they learn, there are parameters put in place. The teaching team will work closely with the learner to ensure they are progressing in each subject area at a pace that honors the child. 

Why is there only a 5-day option for my toddler/preschool-aged child? 

While a part-time schedule may work well for the adult, children of a young age have not developed a sense for the passage of time. Having a schedule where the child attends a few days a week or every other day often feels confusing to the child and makes the transition into the classroom much more difficult. Our classrooms are rooted in community, creating a culture of consistency, order, and independence. 

What does a typical day look like?

As a developmentally-based school, a child’s activity will differ between classroom levels, but there are common threads to be found regardless of age. A morning circle, an acknowledgment that we’re all here together for another day of learning and being together, is true for everyone at Cornerstone. Typically, the day is divided into a morning and afternoon work cycle. During these work cycles, children are receiving lessons individually or in small or large groups, and making choices to work on materials they’ve been shown previously. As the child grows older, expectations for those works become part of the process.

Our Montessori teachers are credentialed. What does that mean?

To become a Montessori teacher is NOT a weekend seminar! Predicated on having a Bachelor’s Degree, teacher-education programs are typically two years and hundreds of hours long, including a student-teaching practicum experience and evaluation as part of the coursework. Also, Montessori teacher-education programs only credential in three-year age cycles. Your child’s teacher at Cornerstone is an expert not just in Montessori, but in their specific developmental stage.

Are all Montessori schools the same?

Largely, good ones are, in that the faculty is credentialed and the materials presented are authentic. While Montessori is accepted as a proven pedagogy, it is not a registered trademark, so it is possible to have the word Montessori on the outside of a school, with little or no Montessori on the inside.

I’m interested in learning more. What are my next steps?

Come visit! The best way to understand Cornerstone, or really any school, is to come see it at work. Email admissions@cornerstoneschool.org to get started.