When you first start to explore the option of a private school, it can be confusing to navigate the various options. The way that the programs are labeled can leave you wondering how to decide which ones you should take the time to explore. If you have decided that you want your child to get a Montessori education, you can focus on researching only those programs that are based on the Montessori philosophy. As you start exploring options, you may wonder if all private school programs are based on the Montessori philosophy. The short answer to that question is no. You will discover throughout this process that each private school program is unique – even those that ascribe to the same educational philosophy.

Private programs have freedom when it comes to curriculum and philosophy

A major draw of private education for many families is the freedom that these programs have when it comes to curriculum and educational philosophy. Private schools are not bound by the same level of oversight and restrictions that public programs face. There is much more freedom to design the curriculum according to the educational philosophy of the program. At the best private programs, this freedom benefits the students because they are taught using sound educational philosophies instead of learning to do well on a test, which is often the case in public schools. Some private schools follow the Montessori philosophy, but there are also many other philosophies represented throughout private programs.

The Montessori Philosophy is applied in Montessori programs

The only way to ensure that you are looking at programs that apply the Montessori philosophy of education is to look at programs that explicitly state that they are Montessori. The label of ‘private school’ does not automatically mean that a program is based on the Montessori philosophy. These programs typically include the Montessori name in their title to make it clear what educational philosophy they espouse.

The way the Montessori Philosophy is applied can look different between programs

As you search for Montessori programs and take time to observe classes, you will find that the way the Montessori philosophy is applied can look different between programs. Some schools follow the tenets of the Montessori Method closely, while others interpret things more loosely. You must spend some time on each campus you are considering to learn how that particular program applies the tenets of the Montessori philosophy.

Private school programs give you options when it comes to the way you want to educate your child. The freedom that private programs have to apply a particular educational philosophy is a draw to many families. But you cannot assume that a private program aligns with your educational philosophy by merely looking at the name. If you want to ensure that your child gets an education that aligns closely with the Montessori philosophy, then you need to take the time to observe a class to see the students and teachers in action.