The application process

We follow the school calendar for admissions.

We review applications as they are received and completed. We see the admissions process as a partnership between family and school. Admission is based on myriad factors which we consider carefully to determine if the student, family, and school will be a good fit, the overarching question is, “Can we meet the needs and interests of the student?” Our goal is to create a partnership process that is supportive and collaborative, behaving in the best interests of all. 

How to apply

Steps to apply for admission.

  1. The process begins when you schedule a Virtual Meet & Greet with a member of our Admin team, as well as a campus tour & classroom observations.
  2. Complete an application for each child applying for admission
  3. Sign the Student Records Release form (for students who have attended any prior pre-school or school)
  4. We may ask for additional documentation or references
  5.  An interview/meet & greet will be set up with the Lead Guide of the program and each child applying for admission to determine eligibility

At any time throughout the process we invite you to ask questions or schedule individual meetings.

Next, your child will visit one of our classes.

Toddlers & Primary

We invite applicants for the Toddler Program (18 months – 3 years) to meet with a Montessori guide for half an hour at a mutually respectful time. This meeting allows the guide to see the relationship between parent and child and ask questions about routines, temperament, and expectations.

Applicants for the Primary Program (ages 3-6) will meet with a Montessori guide for half of an hour at a mutually respectful time. This meeting allows your child time alone with the guide. The guide will assess the ability for parent/child separation, the ability of your child to follow simple directions, and the level of independence and focus your child currently exhibits.

 

Lower & Upper Elementary Applicants

Applicants for the Lower (Grades 1- 3) and Upper (Grades 4-6) Elementary Programs will meet with a Montessori guide for half an hour at a mutually respectful time. This meeting allows your child time alone with the guide. The guide will assess the ability of your child to follow directions and the level of independence and focus.  This time will also give the guide a better sense of the student’s present level of reading fluency & comprehension, writing ability, mathematics, and cultural literacy.

Middle School Applicants

Parent(s) of applicants for the Middle School Program (Grades 7 & 8) will meet with the administration for half an hour at a mutually respectful time. At this meeting, parents will receive information regarding the application steps. Once this meeting and application steps have taken place, the student will be invited to shadow for 3 days.  This time will allow the student and guide time to assess whether the program fits both.

After your child’s visit, the administration and teaching staff will determine acceptance. You will be notified within 24 hours of acceptance.  If accepted, a security deposit must be paid, and all enrollment paperwork and other fees must be received to secure a place for your child in our school. 

The Montessori Children's

School of Key West

1221 Varela St, Key West, FL 33040

(305) 294-5302