Montessori or Hybrid Options for Elementary School?
I am moving to Berkeley from Saint Paul, MN, and was wondering if Berkeley Unified has any schools that might offer a more Montessori-influenced style of learning. Saint Paul has Montessori schools within its school system that are free, so I am hoping that Berkeley has something similar. If not within BUSD, are there private options for elementary school? I would love any suggestions/advice/recommendations. Thank you in advance.
Feb 29, 2024
Parent Replies
My daughter went to East Bay Montessori from K-8 and I highly recommend. They have a great music program, the upper elementary and middle school students participate in Model UN (including a trip to NYC!), the middle school students run "businesses" to help fund their adventures. The students learn a lot of executive functioning type skills. I felt like the program prepared my child to tackle high school with a calmly and now seeing those same skills help her apply to colleges and scholarship programs.
I don't think there is anything in particular through BUSD, but there is at least one great Montessori charter in Oakland. Also, if you are interested in private schools, I'd look into The Berkeley School, which used to be Montessori but now is more of a mix of Reggio based and Montessori, as well as East Bay Montessori in El Cerrito.