We have two of our children at MSTE now and have been so pleased by what they have accomplished so far. My oldest began writing all her numbers at 3.5 years old. She creates beautiful embroidery (sewing) work with tiny, consistent stitches. She brings home beautiful paintings and other works of art. Her love for learning and growth in her independence and confidence has been a true joy to witness. It is so endearing to watch the older children help the younger children and to see them work together in their village. We now witness our oldest daughter being able to help the younger children in the same way she was helped by her elders.
During our observation, we were blown away by the children and their work. The focus that these children had and the enjoyment we observed while these small children did their activities was incredible. They were patient, they worked together, the atmosphere was calm, inviting and positive. It was easy to see the confidence and independence these children were gaining all while learning and having the freedom to express their individuality. Once we saw MSTE, our decision was easy! By the way, few other schools encourage a sit-down observation by prospective parents. At MSTE they not only invite this, they require it!
I cannot say enough about this 'children's house.' You will not be disappointed!!
5) All of my children have learned to read during their 4-year-old year. Annie observes your child, and she knows when to introduce these critical skills…writing, reading, math, etc. I highly value reading at an early age because I find that it empowers the child. Annie sees that your child is capable of so much more than society and normal educational practices think they are, and she gives your child the tools to be an avid learner.
We were a family at this school for 6 years. We made a huge sacrifice driving 45 minutes each way to/from school for 5 of those years because that is how much we believed in the school's mission and ability to serve our girls in their educational and developmental needs from age 2-6. Our girls were happy to be there every day and they "graduated" with an incredible foundation that we believe will serve them for the rest of their lives. They truly received a gift during the 4 years they each spent there. Now in 1st and 3rd grades at a different school, they are absolutely flourishing and are consistently at or above their grade levels in spelling, reading, and math. We highly recommend Montessori School of the Epiphany to anyone looking for a truly special place for their child. Their focus is on the children and what Maria Montessori believed each child needs and deserves. It's incredible to observe the children working in such peace and with such focus. The classroom happily hums along as the needs of the children are beautifully fulfilled in their special classroom environment. Take a tour and discover what a gem this school is!
Our family spent a total of 7 years at this school. Both our children continue to be joyful and enthusiastic learners, and we attribute this to an amazing start at MSE. We truly feel blessed to have been able to provide this kind of foundation for both our children. We LOVE this school. However, this school may not for every family. Here is some info that might help you decide: The children learn academics AND character qualities. They learn about respecting themselves and others. They learn to choose work, complete the work, and then put it away. The kids also have outdoor free play time every day. The teachers view each child as an individual. They get to know each child well, and form a partnership with parents to help the child reach full potential. As with most Montessori schools, the teachers are entirely focused on the children, not the parents at dropoff/pickup. This is very different from some schools where teachers chat daily with each parent at drop off and pickup times. I found it comforting to know that all teachers' attention was on the children, but some parents may not find this a good fit. As far as communication, I found that my messages were always returned in a timely manner. Academically, the typical child from MSTE graduates ahead of most peers. They do well socially and emotionally as well. MSE is true to the Montessori philosophy. When considering MSE or another school true to Montessori philosophy (many are not), I recommend reading up on Montessori education to see if it is a fit.
When you walk in to Montessori School of the Epiphany you can immediately feel the warm, peaceful, and calm atmosphere that true Montessori education provides your child. I didn't think my high energy child with separation anxiety was going to fit in with the other children who were doing their work with such peace and grace, and it has been truly amazing to watch her transform and develop a sense of community and belonging at her school.
We have LOVED this school. And, I don’t just mean that I have loved this school. My children LOVE this school. Both of my older children (6th grade & 2nd grade now) have commented recently that they would love to go back to MSTE. My youngest was giddy with excitement one morning last week over all the things she couldn’t wait to do during classroom time!!
So here are some highlights:
Since the school is on acreage, the children also go on nature walks and learn to identify and observe native plants and animals. It is a breath of fresh air to see them stopping to appreciate nature in such a fast paced, technological world. We love that they are keeping the focus on these important things in life.
3) The school puts emphasis on work with a positive connotation. It’s brilliant!! Every activity that they do is work that they have chosen because they love it or because they are now ready for it. It’s very empowering and confidence-building.
The school also has a wonderful community of parents that work together. The director, Annie Spade, does a great job of responding to any concerns via email or immediately after school via a phone call each day. There are also a few parent meetings each semester which provide an open opportunity for the parents to share, problem solve and learn together. Annie also conducts a personal parent/teacher conference each semester that is so informative and enjoyable. While we do often ask questions throughout the semester and get to see the work our children bring home, it is nice to have a long sit down and go through it all with Annie. Her advice and guidance is always much appreciated!
1) Everything your young child does when he starts at the school is getting him ready for something else along the way. Every activity or lesson builds on another to culminate in the Kindergarten year.
Our family has been a part of MSTE for 9 years! Two of my children have attended through Kindergarten and have graduated, and my youngest daughter is currently there in Kindergarten and will graduate in May. I am sad anticipating the day we have to leave this school that has been a part of our family life for almost a decade!
2) My children can focus. My children have found an appreciation for quiet work time. The classroom provides ample opportunity for these young children to focus on good, challenging work.
So, with that, I think it extremely important to begin that Montessori School of the Epiphany IS a school, a place where instruction is given. It is NOT a daycare. Everyone who attends this school should enter with that firmly in their mind. It's calm, tranquil, focused, and a cozy breeding ground for learning. This school WILL instill a love of learning in your child, if you are willing to work with Annie & Emily (the teachers or guides as they are called in Montessori lingo) and heed their advice.
One-of-a-kind Montessori school education! My husband and I visited several other 'Montessori schools' in the Austin area and there is nothing like MSTE. First of all, they are the oldest Montessori school in the Lake Travis Area and their director has been working in the Montessori classroom with preschool children for over 30 years. Her experience is outstanding and it shows! Secondly, this is the only school founded by AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) certified teachers and the only school in the area with an AMI certified teacher currently in the classroom - where it counts. When I was a child I attended Montessori schools with AMI-certified staff for many years. I can't say enough good about my early education and the ways in which it set me up for higher education and work ethic.
Sending my children to MSTE has given them the BEST foundation for a full and interesting life. I do NOT exaggerate. This was one of the greatest choices that my husband and I ever made.
4) The environment of the classroom is so cozy and natural. There are many windows to allow in natural light and also to allow the children to see the trees and nature outside. Just this week, my daughter was enthralled with the walking stick insect they saw on the window. The entire property is natural, in fact. It is surrounded my trees, natural grasses, and wildflowers. The nature walks to see the plentiful wildflower varieties, of which they learned from pictures in the classroom, in real life has been a highlight of our years at this amazing school.
Annie has a passion for children and meeting the needs of the child on multiple levels not just academically. Not only is my daughter learning her letters, sounds and numbers; more importantly she is learning, patience, concentration, care for her community and environment, independence and more! We are very happy with our choice for our child and our next daughter will be starting this year as well!
Montessori School Of The Epiphany is a US School based in Bee Cave, Texas. Montessori School Of The Epiphany is located at 13709 TX-71, Bee Cave, TX 78738, USA.
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