West Side Montessori

West Side Montessori is an independent, accredited Montessori school educating children 13 months through 8th grade (preschool, kindergarten, elementary school and middle school). We are one of the leading private schools in Toledo, and the nation.

We believe that each child is unique and capable. We believe in nurturing the whole child by creating a community where the heart of the child is as important as challenging the intellect. We believe that the community of the child, parent, and educator is the foundation of the school's success.

Our Mission
West Side Montessori is a family-oriented educational community engaging and inspiring children to discover their potential within an environment promoting mutual respect, social responsibility, natural curiosity, and a love of learning.

Ideally, each child has the same teachers for multiple years. This gives teachers the opportunity to truly know and understand each child and determine how to both entice and engage children in the learning process. Montessori educators carefully prepare their classroom environments to allow each child to construct his/her own learning. The children gain confidence over time, unlocking their potential and setting them on a path of discovery for life.

The school engages families in the learning process for each child. Expectations for parent involvement and responsibilities are detailed in the School/Parent Partnership Agreement that each family signs annually. Parents observe, volunteer, attend parent education programs and child development classes, and receive regular communication via the online weekly newsletter and blog posts. WSM, in conjunction with the Parents' Association Coordinating Committee (PACC), provides numerous opportunities for involvement in special events and programs. Teachers and parents often communicate via email or telephone.

At West Side Montessori the "prepared environment" includes a culture of mutual respect that encourages children to take responsibility for their own behavior and learning, including taking appropriate risks. Children are empowered to make choices and decisions, practice leadership, and engage in the world beyond our walls. The balance of freedom and responsibility practiced at West Side Montessori sets our students on the path to seek and love learning.