Hunt Ridge Montessori School

The reviewer who claims of widespread lack of communication, including children not being allowed to speak to each other, must be talking about some other school. The other reviewer who complains about his/her child not being "celebrated" is complaining that Montessori does not engage in the pseudo-self-esteem racket that defines Progressive education. Hunt Ridge is an excellent school. I vetted several Montessori schools in the area and almost didn't make it to this one. However, it was hands down the most authentic of the schools I had seen. If you want to save your child's life, and incidentally, have a child who will love you for life, give them a Montessori education. Something that immediately struck me about Hunt Ridge was its headmaster/owner. This lady's demeanor suggested someone who runs a finishing school. Her speech, tone, body language and manner were precise, calm and benevolent and suggested someone who has spent a lifetime being concerned about such things. When I met her, that was it. This was the school for my daughter.
--Submitted by a parent

Everyone is entitled to his/her opinion, but stating that "the philosophy encourages the children not to speak to each other when doing work" is pointedly false. In fact, the philosophy is built around children collaborating and learning from each other. As for poor parent/teacher communication, the school invested in a website to facilitate the flow of information and has regular lectures on topics relevant to the environment in the classroom. They provide monthly lectures from a Montessori-trained child psychologist and ENCOURAGE parent involvement in the classroom. I am offended and shocked by any negative comments as the school is fiercely devoted to family and helping each other as well as those in the community. I have received personal phone calls and emails from the Director when my child has been sick or injured. I have also received hand-written letters to my child from the Director and teachers, as well as new baby gifts. Not only is the school committed to educational excellence, they are patently involved in the welfare of my child and our family as a whole.
--Submitted by a parent

There has been a great deal of parent dissatisfaction in recent months, resulting in a large decline in children attending. Unfortunately very poor communication has left many parents feeling in the dark and mislead . The Director is involved as another reviewer mentioned however there are some clear management issues and too many aggrieved parents. It has a questionable discipline policy and the philosophy encourages the children not to speak to each other when doing work (even 3 year olds who lack social skills). The school needs better management and to open the lines of communication with parents. The essential parent/school partnership is severely lacking. Parents are discouraged from walking their child to class. Agree with the other reviewer, this could be a more nurturing family environment.
--Submitted by a parent

My daughter just graudated and we could not be happier with her progress. The school is exceptional. It is obvious that the staff genuinely cares for each child. The blend of education and social learning results in a well rounded individual. I give the staff a lot of credit. For the most part, the parents are very supportive and really try to adopt the school's approach to learning. But typical of Fairfield County, there are those parents who feel the school should bend its approach to their wishes, and vociferously push their agenda. Overall, it was a very positive experience.
--Submitted by a parent

Our experience was less than great with various problems with the teacher. Our child wasn't celebrated like we assumed he would be. Once we very nicely alerted the school we'd be attending another school next year, they gave up on us. They expect a lot out of these small children, and we thought it could be a critical environment, though we weren't comfortable viewing the classroom. Our new school is very warm and fuzzy, and pro-parent and child, not pro-teacher like Hunt Ridge. We would advise against, though the families that go there are lovely.
--Submitted by a parent

We are delighted with Hunt Ridge and really can't say enough wonderful things about the teachers, the head of the school and the curriculum. My daughter's teacher knows her very well, and we have found everyone to be very warm and caring. My daughter is thriving there. The Montessori method is working really well for her, and we are thrilled with the confidence and love of learning that comes with it. The teachers really understand how to capture the wonder of childhood and translate that into exciting and fun learning in the classroom. Worth every penny of the tuition!
--Submitted by a parent

HR makes a great impression on parents who are excited about unique Montessouri methods and having their kids go to school 5 days. The staff is uneven and they've had difficulty retaining staff, despite some good teachers. Mixed ages is difficult for some, part. if they do not balance it properly within the 3 age groups and the sexes, as in our class. There is a BIG difference bt 3's and 5's. Our teacher was unprofessional. We had an aggression issue and despite my child's repeated complaints, we were told they had never seen anything. HR became increasingly unsupportive, as the episodes grew in number. When the gentlest of criticism is perceived, HR becomes defensive, tho many are not unfortunate enough to experience such difficulties. My child was taught to spell his name incorrectly by his teacher. French & piano are offered. Cool field trips.
--Submitted by a parent

A wonderful school, excellent teaching methods, values and a wonderful learning environment. Our daughter is attending and we hope to send our son next year.
--Submitted by a parent

My husband and I are delighted by both the staff and curriculum at Hunt Ridge. Learning is presented in a fun way which encourages each child's own interests and personality to blossum. It is a very enriching environment for a young mind to explore. The children are exposed to many different activities inclduing attending frequent field trips through out the year. Music, dancing and the arts are introduced at an age appropriate level in an enriching manner. All children are encouraged to respect others and themselves. The teachers are lively and welcome insights to your child's interest as well as sharing what they observe in the classroom. I feel that my daughter will be well prepared to attend first grade with confidence and maturity after attending Hunt Ridge. We love it so much we are also planning on sending our youngest child there as well.
--Submitted by a parent

This is an amazing school. The director is highly involved -- i wish it would go beyond the level it goes (which is 5-6 yrs). Particularly the kindergarten program is excellent and children leave the program doing much more than they would in their equivalent grade. Highest regards!
--Submitted by a parent