Countryside Montessori Academy
General Information
Reviews
Countryside Montessori Academy has earned a strong reputation among parents and students for its nurturing environment and commitment to individualized learning. Families praise the school’s focus on Montessori principles, which emphasize hands-on activities and fostering independence from an early age. Parents frequently highlight the supportive and attentive faculty, noting that teachers are highly skilled at adapting lessons to meet each child’s unique learning style. The academy is well-regarded for its welcoming community atmosphere and active parental involvement in school events and decision-making processes. Students appreciate the freedom to explore subjects at their own pace, which helps foster critical thinking and creativity. However, some reviews mention that the school’s smaller size may limit the variety of extracurricular activities compared to larger institutions, although the quality of available programs remains high. Overall, Countryside Montessori Academy is viewed as a nurturing, academically solid environment that prepares students well for future educational challenges while promoting social and emotional growth.
Contact Information
- Phone: (425) 793-6528
- Email: info@countrysidemontessori.edu
- Address: 1287 Maplewood Drive, Bellevue, WA 98004
- Website: www.countrysidemontessori.edu
- Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
School Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1987 |
| Grades Served | Pre-K through 8 |
| Total Students | 562 |
| Faculty Count | 48 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 12:1 |
| School Type | Private Montessori |
Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Ranking | Top 22% |
| District Ranking | 6 |
Countryside Montessori Academy Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Arts and Music
- Physical Education
- Foreign Languages
- Technology
Countryside Montessori Academy Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Early Childhood Montessori
- Elementary Mathematics
- Reading and Writing Workshop
- Environmental Science
- Social Studies and Geography
- Visual Arts
- Music Appreciation
- Physical Education and Wellness
- Spanish Language
- Computer Literacy
- Creative Writing
- Practical Life Skills
Online Learning
Countryside Montessori Academy offers a flexible online learning platform designed to complement its in-person Montessori curriculum. The platform delivers interactive lessons, virtual meetings, and digital resources to support students who may need remote access due to health or travel reasons. Teachers provide personalized feedback through video calls and online assignments, ensuring students remain engaged and connected to their studies. The school emphasizes maintaining Montessori principles even in virtual settings by incorporating hands-on projects that can be completed at home. Additionally, parents receive training to assist their children with online learning tools. This hybrid approach has been especially beneficial in recent years, helping students maintain continuity in their education without compromising the school’s commitment to individualized learning.
Degrees and Certifications
While Countryside Montessori Academy primarily serves Pre-K through 8th grade students, it places a strong emphasis on teacher certifications in Montessori education. Faculty members hold AMI or AMS Montessori diplomas and participate in ongoing professional development to stay current in educational best practices. The academy also offers certifications for early childhood educators seeking Montessori credentials through partnerships with training organizations. For students, the school provides opportunities to earn certificates of achievement in areas such as language arts, STEM projects, and arts integration. These certifications aim to recognize student progress and mastery of Montessori learning stages, preparing them for smooth transitions to secondary education environments.
Summer School
The summer program at Countryside Montessori Academy is designed to reinforce core academic skills while fostering creativity and social development. The curriculum includes hands-on science experiments, creative arts workshops, and outdoor educational activities aligned with Montessori principles. Summer school serves both current students seeking to strengthen foundational skills and new enrollees who want to acclimate to the school’s philosophy before the academic year begins. Classes are small, encouraging individualized attention, and the program incorporates field trips to local museums and nature reserves to enhance experiential learning. Additionally, summer school promotes social interaction in a relaxed setting, helping students build friendships and confidence for the upcoming year.
Average Test Scores
| Subject | Average Score |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | 79% |
| English/Reading | 85% |
| Science | 74% |
| Social Studies | 88% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Countryside Montessori Academy boasts high retention rates, with over 90% of students continuing their education at the school year after year. This reflects strong satisfaction among families regarding the quality of instruction, school environment, and community involvement. The graduation rate from 8th grade is similarly impressive, with nearly 95% of students completing the full program and successfully transitioning to reputable secondary schools. The school’s emphasis on personalized learning and close teacher-student relationships helps reduce dropout rates and keeps students motivated through middle school. Alumni feedback suggests that the Montessori foundation equips students with critical thinking and self-directed learning abilities that serve them well in high school and beyond.
Countryside Montessori Academy Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
While GPA and standardized test scores are not the primary focus for admission at Countryside Montessori Academy, the school does consider academic readiness and developmental milestones for prospective students. Since the school serves Pre-K through 8th grade, admissions emphasize developmental assessments and interviews to ensure students will thrive in the Montessori environment. For older students applying to the middle school program, recent report cards and teacher recommendations are reviewed. The school values well-rounded applicants who demonstrate curiosity, independence, and a willingness to engage in collaborative learning. Standardized testing is not required for admission, but families are encouraged to submit any relevant academic records to assist in placement decisions.
Acceptance Rate
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 68% |
| 2022 | 72% |
| 2021 | 70% |
Application Requirements
The application process requires families to submit a completed application form, recent academic records, and a letter of intent describing the child’s interests and learning style. An interview with the student and parents is mandatory to discuss Montessori philosophy and assess the fit for both parties. Additionally, the school requests recommendations from previous teachers or caregivers. For younger children, an observational visit is recommended to help staff evaluate developmental readiness. All applicants must provide proof of immunizations and residency within the school’s service area. Applicants are encouraged to attend open house events to better understand the academy’s approach before submitting their applications.
Enrollment Overview
Enrollment at Countryside Montessori Academy is competitive but designed to be inclusive, with a focus on matching each child’s needs to the Montessori method. Each year, the school accepts a new cohort of students across multiple grade levels, balancing class sizes to maintain low student-teacher ratios. Enrollment numbers have steadily increased due to positive community reputation, with waiting lists commonly forming for popular grades. The school offers financial aid and sibling priority to assist families in securing places. New students typically begin with an orientation session to facilitate a smooth transition, ensuring they feel comfortable in the classroom environment and understand the expectations of Montessori learning.
Application Process
- Submit online application form through the school website
- Provide recent academic records and teacher recommendations
- Attend a parent-student interview with admissions staff
- Participate in a classroom observation session (for Pre-K applicants)
- Submit immunization and residency documentation
- Receive acceptance notification via email
- Complete enrollment forms and pay registration fee
Application Deadlines and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | January 10 |
| Application Deadline | March 15 |
| Decision Notification | April 20 |
| Enrollment Deadline | May 10 |
| Orientation Sessions | August 15-20 |
Essay Prompt
Prospective students applying to Countryside Montessori Academy are asked to write a short essay describing a time when they explored something new or solved a problem independently. The prompt encourages students to reflect on their curiosity, creativity, and willingness to learn outside of traditional instruction. This essay helps the admissions team understand how applicants embody the Montessori values of self-directed learning and perseverance. Parents are invited to assist younger children in expressing their thoughts clearly, but the school values authentic voices and personal insights. The essay also offers a glimpse into the child’s communication skills and ability to engage thoughtfully with challenges, which are key indicators for success in the Montessori environment.
Countryside Montessori Academy Scholarships
Countryside Montessori Academy offers a limited number of scholarships aimed at supporting families who demonstrate financial need or exceptional talent in arts and leadership. The scholarship program is funded through donations and fundraising events organized by the Parent-Teacher Association. Applicants must submit a financial aid form along with their admissions application and provide documentation of income. Artistic portfolios or leadership experience may be requested for merit-based awards. Scholarship recipients benefit from reduced tuition rates and additional mentoring opportunities. The school encourages all interested families to inquire about scholarship availability early in the application process, as funds are limited and awarded on a rolling basis.
Countryside Montessori Academy Tuition Fees and Costs
| Item | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $14,850 |
| Registration Fee | $350 |
| Technology Fee | $275 |
| Activity Fee | $400 |
| Books and Supplies | $600 |
| Optional Lunch Program | $1,200 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Countryside Montessori Academy serves a diverse student population reflecting the multicultural community of Bellevue and surrounding areas. The student body includes a broad spectrum of socioeconomic backgrounds, with many families drawn to the school’s individualized approach and emphasis on social-emotional learning. The academy actively promotes inclusivity and cultural awareness through curriculum and community events. Students benefit from small class sizes that foster close relationships with peers and teachers. The school also welcomes international students, providing additional language support services to help non-native English speakers thrive. Overall, the demographic diversity enriches classroom discussions and broadens perspectives, preparing students for a globalized world.
Low-Income Students and Students with Disabilities
Countryside Montessori Academy is committed to supporting low-income families by offering financial aid and scholarship opportunities. The school recognizes the importance of equitable access to high-quality education and provides resources to ensure all students can participate fully. Additionally, the academy has an inclusive education program that supports students with mild to moderate disabilities through individualized education plans (IEPs) and collaboration with specialists. Classroom teachers receive training in differentiated instruction and adaptive methods to accommodate diverse learning needs. The school’s holistic approach ensures that students with disabilities are integrated into mainstream classrooms and participate in all activities, fostering a sense of belonging and achievement.
Student Body Overview
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female Students | 52% |
| Male Students | 48% |
| Caucasian | 45% |
| African American | 10% |
| Hispanic | 15% |
| Asian | 25% |
| Other/Multiracial | 5% |
University Diversity
Although Countryside Montessori Academy is a Pre-K through 8 school, it prides itself on preparing students to enter diverse secondary schools and eventually colleges with strong commitments to diversity. The school’s curriculum incorporates multicultural perspectives and global awareness to foster respect for different cultures and viewpoints. Students engage in projects and celebrations that highlight various cultural traditions, promoting an inclusive mindset from an early age. This foundation helps graduates transition smoothly into environments with diverse populations, where they are more likely to succeed socially and academically. The academy’s focus on empathy, collaboration, and critical thinking equips students to appreciate diversity in higher education and beyond.
Average Earnings
As a middle school institution, Countryside Montessori Academy does not report earnings data for graduates directly. However, alumni surveys indicate that students who continue on academically rigorous paths tend to pursue high school and college programs that prepare them for successful careers. The school’s emphasis on problem-solving, creativity, and communication skills lays a strong foundation for future professional success. Families often report that students develop entrepreneurial mindsets and leadership qualities that positively influence their earning potential later in life. The Montessori approach encourages lifelong learning and adaptability, skills highly valued in the evolving job market.
Graduation Rate
The school maintains a strong graduation rate, with nearly 95% of students completing the 8th-grade program. This success is attributed to the personalized support provided by teachers and the emphasis on student engagement through hands-on learning. The small class sizes allow educators to identify and address challenges early, helping students stay on track academically and socially. Additionally, the community-oriented atmosphere fosters a positive learning environment where students feel motivated and supported. Alumni often report feeling well-prepared for high school, both academically and in terms of self-confidence, which contributes to continued success in their educational journeys.
Countryside Montessori Academy Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Countryside Montessori Academy employs a dedicated team of 48 faculty members, most of whom hold Montessori certifications along with advanced degrees in education. The staff includes classroom teachers, specialists in subjects like music and physical education, and support personnel such as counselors and learning specialists. The school prioritizes ongoing professional development, encouraging teachers to participate in workshops and conferences focused on Montessori pedagogy and child development. Faculty members are known for their collaborative spirit, working closely to create interdisciplinary projects and share best practices. Support staff contribute to a safe and welcoming environment, ensuring students’ social and emotional needs are met alongside academic goals.
Faculty Profiles
The teaching staff at Countryside Montessori Academy comprises experienced educators with diverse backgrounds in Montessori and traditional schooling. Many teachers have been with the school for over a decade, fostering continuity and strong relationships with families. Faculty members specialize in various grade levels, with early childhood educators emphasizing sensory-based learning and middle school teachers focusing on inquiry and critical thinking. Several teachers hold additional certifications in special education, language acquisition, or STEM education. The faculty collectively embraces the Montessori philosophy of respecting each child’s learning pace and interests, promoting autonomy and curiosity. Teachers also serve as mentors, guiding students through academic and personal challenges with empathy and insight.
Countryside Montessori Academy Campus and Student Life
Campus Life and Housing
Countryside Montessori Academy’s campus is designed to reflect Montessori values, featuring open classrooms filled with natural light and materials that encourage exploration. Outdoor learning spaces include gardens, play areas, and nature trails where students engage in environmental studies and physical activity. The campus is situated in a quiet residential neighborhood, offering a safe and serene environment conducive to learning. While the school does not provide on-campus housing, it maintains strong relationships with local families and community organizations to support students’ well-being outside school hours. Regular events such as family picnics, art shows, and cultural celebrations foster a sense of community and enhance student life beyond academics.
Transportation
The school offers a transportation program with buses servicing surrounding neighborhoods in Bellevue and nearby areas. Routes are designed to accommodate working families, with morning pick-ups and afternoon drop-offs aligned to school hours. For families outside bus zones, carpool programs and partnerships with local transit services provide additional options. The school’s location near major roads makes it accessible by private vehicle, and ample parking is available on campus. For older students, walking and biking are encouraged, supported by safe pathways and crossing guards. Transportation services prioritize safety, punctuality, and convenience to reduce barriers to attendance and ensure students arrive ready to learn.
Job Openings and Career Opportunities
Countryside Montessori Academy periodically offers employment opportunities for educators and administrative staff committed to the Montessori philosophy. Openings may include classroom teachers, specialty instructors in arts or sciences, and support roles such as counselors or office personnel. The school values candidates with Montessori certification and experience working with children in developmental stages. Career growth is supported through professional development programs, mentorship, and participation in educational conferences. Additionally, the academy encourages local high school and college students to apply for internships and part-time roles, providing early career exposure to education and child development fields. Job listings and application details are available on the school’s website.