The Academy, with its commitment to an authentic Montessori approach, coupled with innovative ancillary programming, stands as a wholly unique learning institution. Our students thrive while receiving all the benefits of the Montessori tradition alongside evidence-based approaches to student support and enrichment curricula.
We represent something different—a 21st century approach that ensures our school is an extension of the home, our parents have peace of mind, and our students grow to be responsible and self-assured global citizens prepared to lead in the modern world.
Accreditations & Licensure
The Academy is accredited by the American Montessori Society and our Nursery program is licensed by the Department of Children and Family Services
When We’re Open
Year-round, full-day programming. Our building is open from 7:30 am – 6:00 pm, and we’re open during the summer.
Meal Plan
Catered lunch & snacks – fresh, organic food provided by Organic Life – included in your tuition.
Average teacher to student ratio:
Infant – 1:3 Toddler – 1:4 Pre-primary – 1: 6 Primary – 1:10 Elementary – 1:15
The Best Teachers
All lead teachers are Montessori credentialed, and many hold advanced degrees in education. Almost all of our classrooms have two credentialed teachers in them. Our lead teacher retention rate is 88%.
Parent Involvement
We have an engaged and dynamic parent community. There are many ways to get involved, including attending Continued Parent Enrichment events, or volunteering for Friends of Montessori Academy of Chicago or our Parent Advisory Committee.
Enrichments
We have full-time art, music, gym, technology, and Spanish teachers on-staff. Learn more.
Achievement Resource Center
Our ARC team—comprised of a social worker, occupational therapist, and speech/language pathologist—provides support to all students, as well as clinical treatment to those in need.
Extracurriculars
We offer an array of after-school groups and classes starting at the pre-primary age. Offerings include yoga, ballet, sports, ukulele club, and more! Learn More.
Social-emotional Learning
Research overwhelmingly shows that schools with effective SEL curricula improve behavioral and academic outcomes. We’re committed to developing emotional intelligence skills at every age, having implemented Yale’s RULER curriculum school-wide.
Literacy
We’re committed to developing outstanding readers and writers. We’ve implemented Columbia University’s Reading & Writing Project from kindergarten through 6th grade, creating a rigorous and continuous approach to instruction and assessment.
Montessori Model United Nations
Students participate in MMUN by engaging in critical thinking about world issues, conducting topic research, and writing persuasive position papers. Students present their work at conferences in Chicago, New York City, and Rome.
Nature’s Classroom Institute
NCI is the nation’s premier outdoor environmental education program. Our older students visit their Wisconsin campus for a whole week every year.
Safety & Security
Student safety is our #1 priority. The Academy has closed-circuit cameras monitoring our perimeter at all times, and we work with local and national authorities to consistently evaluate and update our security protocols.
Getting into High School
Our young middle school program is already a great success. Our graduates have gained acceptance to the following schools: Northside Prep, Francis W. Parker School, Lane Tech, Whitney Young, Culver Academy, St. Ignatius, Loyola Academy, Wolcott School, Beacon High, British International, and Latin School of Chicago.
