Alcuin Montessori School
1. General Information
Reviews
Alcuin Montessori School is widely appreciated by families for its strong dedication to authentic Montessori education, nurturing environment, and individualized learning approach that supports students from early childhood through elementary years. Many parents highlight the school’s warm, community-oriented atmosphere where students are encouraged to explore, create, and develop independence at their own pace, in alignment with Montessori philosophy. Reviews frequently praise the highly trained teachers who demonstrate patience, attentiveness, and a deep understanding of child development, helping each student grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Families also commend the school’s emphasis on hands-on learning, personalized instruction, and multi-age classrooms that foster leadership, cooperation, and peer mentorship. The campus is often described as inviting, peaceful, and thoughtfully prepared, allowing children to fully engage with materials and activities designed to support curiosity and self-direction. Parents note that the school promotes strong parent-teacher communication, creating a collaborative partnership that ensures students receive well-rounded support. Overall, Alcuin Montessori School is viewed as an exceptional educational environment that blends academic rigor with creativity, confidence-building, and respect for individuality.
Contact Informations
Address: 614 Forest Avenue, River Forest, IL 60305
Phone Number: (708) 366-1882
Email Address: info@alcuin.org
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1961 |
| Motto | “Nurturing Independence, Curiosity, and Confidence” |
| School Type | Montessori Private School |
| Grades Served | Toddler – Grade 8 |
| Campus Locations | River Forest & Oak Park, Illinois |
Alcuin Montessori School Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | Not Ranked (Independent Montessori School) |
| National Ranking | Recognized Montessori Education Institution |
2. Alcuin Montessori School Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Early Childhood Education
- Lower Elementary
- Upper Elementary
- Middle School Program
- Montessori Practical Life
- Montessori Sensorial
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Cultural Studies
- Fine Arts
- Physical Education
- Student Support and Enrichment Programs
Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Montessori Early Childhood Curriculum
- Elementary Language Arts
- Elementary Mathematics
- Montessori Science & Cultural Studies
- Practical Life Skills
- Sensorial Development Activities
- Technology & Digital Literacy
- Visual Arts & Creative Expression
- Music and Performing Arts
- Middle School Humanities
- Middle School STEM Foundations
- Social-Emotional Learning Curriculum
Online Courses / Online Learning
While Alcuin Montessori School prioritizes hands-on, in-person Montessori learning grounded in tactile materials and interactive experiences, the school has incorporated online and hybrid learning models when necessary to support continuity of education. In situations where remote learning is needed, teachers adapt Montessori principles by offering virtual lessons, digital resources, and video-based demonstrations that guide students through activities aligned with their developmental stage. Online learning also focuses on maintaining structure and routine, offering recorded lessons and live check-ins to keep students connected with the Montessori environment. Though not a primary format, the school ensures that remote options remain consistent with the Montessori philosophy of independence, exploration, and child-led learning.
Degrees
Alcuin Montessori School awards no degrees, as it is an early childhood through middle school institution.
Summer School
Alcuin Montessori School offers various summer programs designed to extend Montessori learning into relaxed, theme-based activities. These programs include creative arts, science exploration, outdoor learning, and enrichment experiences that maintain continuity while offering seasonal fun.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Standardized Tests | Not Publicly Reported (Montessori Assessment Approach) |
| Benchmark Assessments | Varies by Grade |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The school enjoys strong year-to-year retention as families often remain through multiple program levels due to satisfaction with its Montessori approach. Students “graduate” from the upper grade levels prepared for transitions into public or private high schools with strong academic and social foundations.
3. Alcuin Montessori School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
These metrics do not apply, as the school enrolls toddlers through middle school students.
Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance | Space-Dependent, Rolling Admissions |
Application Requirements
Admission to Alcuin Montessori School involves a warm and personalized process that ensures the program is the right fit for each child. Families typically begin by scheduling a tour to observe the Montessori environment, meet teachers, and gain insight into classroom structure. After the visit, parents complete an application and provide developmental or school records when applicable. Child observations or classroom visits may be included to assess readiness and compatibility with Montessori learning. The admissions team focuses on building relationships with families, understanding each child’s needs, and ensuring that the school can provide the appropriate support and setting for growth.
Enrollment
Enrollment operates on a rolling basis, depending on age group and availability.
Application Process
- Schedule a campus tour
- Submit application form
- Provide school or developmental records
- Participate in child observation or classroom visit (as applicable)
- Receive admissions decision
- Complete enrollment documents
Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Priority Applications | January–March |
| Rolling Admissions | Year-Round Based on Openings |
| Summer Program Registration | Spring |
Essay Prompt
No formal essays are required, but parents may be asked to share information about their child’s learning style, personality, and goals for Montessori education.
Alcuin Montessori School Scholarships
As a private school, tuition assistance or need-based financial aid may be available for qualifying families depending on yearly funding allocations.
Alcuin Montessori School Tuition Fees (Costs)
| Program | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Toddler Program | Varies by Schedule |
| Early Childhood | Varies by Schedule |
| Elementary Program | Annual Tuition |
| Middle School Program | Annual Tuition |
4. Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Alcuin Montessori School serves a diverse population of students across age groups from toddler to middle school, with families representing a range of cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Gender distribution is typically balanced, and the school’s Montessori environment nurtures inclusivity and respect for individual differences. Students come from local communities such as River Forest, Oak Park, and nearby areas, contributing to a culturally rich and dynamic learning environment. Diversity is viewed as a strength, and the school fosters collaborative, mixed-age classrooms that encourage students to learn from one another.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The school is committed to supporting children of all backgrounds and works closely with families to ensure access to resources whenever possible. Students with learning differences or developmental needs may receive individualized supports, accommodations, or external specialist collaboration when appropriate. Although the school is not a special education institution, it strives to provide compassionate and developmentally appropriate support within the Montessori framework.
Student Body
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Approximately 150–200 |
| International Students | Not Applicable |
| Average Class Size | 12–18 Students |
University Diversity
Diversity is a core value within Alcuin Montessori School’s educational philosophy. The school cultivates an environment where children learn not only academic concepts but also empathy, cultural awareness, and respect for others. Multi-age classrooms naturally promote a sense of community and belonging, enabling older students to mentor younger peers while younger children learn cooperation and communication. Families from many backgrounds engage with the school community, bringing rich cultural perspectives that enhance classroom discussions, celebrations, and shared experiences. Teachers integrate lessons, materials, and themes that highlight global cultures, traditions, and histories, encouraging students to embrace differences and build a broader world understanding. Through Montessori principles, students are taught to value diversity as a foundation for respectful citizenship and peaceful coexistence.
Average Earnings
As Alcuin Montessori School is an early childhood through middle school program, earnings data does not apply. Instead, the school focuses on long-term development, preparing students for high school and eventually adulthood by cultivating academic confidence, independent thinking, and problem-solving abilities. Graduates typically transition into strong high school programs and continue into higher education, where the foundational skills gained through Montessori learning contribute to greater academic success and future career readiness. The school’s emphasis on intrinsic motivation, responsibility, and self-direction ultimately supports students in building habits and skills that positively influence future earning potential and life opportunities.
Graduation Rate
Students transition out of the program after completing 8th grade with strong preparation for high school.
5. Alcuin Montessori School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at Alcuin Montessori School is composed of dedicated Montessori-certified educators, classroom assistants, subject specialists, and support staff who work collaboratively to provide a nurturing and developmentally appropriate environment. Teachers undergo extensive Montessori training and maintain ongoing professional development to ensure instructional quality and alignment with Montessori philosophy.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members bring a wealth of experience not only in Montessori pedagogy but also in child development, instructional leadership, the arts, STEM education, and social-emotional learning. Many have advanced degrees and certifications that enhance the school’s academic and cultural richness. Teachers are known for their attentive, gentle approach and dedication to fostering student independence, curiosity, and confidence. Their accomplishments often include leadership roles in Montessori organizations, contributions to curriculum innovation, and long-term service within the school community.
6. Alcuin Montessori School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
As a day school, Alcuin Montessori School does not offer housing. Campus life centers around enriching, well-prepared Montessori environments that inspire exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning. Classrooms are designed with developmentally appropriate materials that promote independence and concentration. Outdoor spaces encourage physical activity, nature discovery, and social play. Students also participate in special programs such as art, music, language, and physical education, all contributing to a holistic school experience.
Transportation
Families typically provide transportation, although the campus is accessible from surrounding communities. The school layout ensures easy navigation for students across classrooms and specialized learning areas.
Job Openings
Positions occasionally become available for Montessori teachers, classroom assistants, administrative staff, and enrichment program instructors. Applicants with Montessori certification or experience are highly valued.