HIGHLAND PARK MONTESSORI:
Programs that grow with your child.

Founded in 1987, Highland Park Montessori was the first of the four Lake Shore Montessori preschools. Originally established to give children an environment where learning could take place within a respectful, caring community, our school continues to thrive today, with the largest facilities, student body, and programs offered among our schools. We’re especially proud of our excellent teacher and staff retention – many of our staff members have worked with us for over 15 years!

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A SCHOOL AS SPECIAL AS
YOUR CHILD.

Highland Park Montessori offers programs for children starting at age 6 months, where our nurturing Nido Parent/Child class is a warm introduction for both adult and child to the Montessori approach. For families looking to combine the Montessori Method and Jewish traditions, our Makom Class allows students to learn from this unique curriculum. For older children, the Kindergarten program provides a tailored education, enabling students to progress at their own pace and facilitating their academic, social and emotional growth. Our beautiful facility is located near several large outdoor venues, and we take full advantage of them year-round. On site, we offer gardening, art, music, gymnastics and foreign language enrichments that keep our students engaged and curious throughout the school day.

OUR
PROGRAMS:

Half-Day Program

Full-Day Program

Parent/Child Class (6+ months)

Toddler Class (2-3 year olds)

Primary Class (3-6 year olds)

Extended Day Pre-K Program (4 year olds)

Full-Day Kindergarten (5-6 year olds)

Makom Jewish Montessori Classroom

Summer Camp (2-7 year olds)

QUICK
FACTS:

School Hours:

7:30AM–5:00PM

(8:00AM-5:00PM Summer Session)

Number of Students Enrolled:

154, including the Nido Parent/Child Program

Average Ratio of Teachers to

Students in the Classroom:

Toddler Program: 1:4-5

Primary Program: 1:8

Tour required before applying?

Yes, please schedule a visit before submitting an application.

OUR EDUCATORS.

Carol Lee, Director

Carol is a certified Montessori teacher and has been working in Montessori schools for over four decades. She founded Highland Park Montessori in 1987, then opening three additional locations which together form the Lake Shore Montessori Schools. Carol takes a hands-on approach to her work as the Director and is frequently found in the classrooms. She works with teachers and parents to facilitate the best possible experience for each individual child. Her favorite part of the Montessori curriculum is the cultural curriculum because of the beautiful lessons on diversity and inclusivity that the students carry into their lives.

Carol is married and has two adult children along with five beloved grandchildren. She has been an avid weight trainer for many years. Carol is a “foodie” and can often be found in local restaurants exploring different cuisines in her free time. She also loves taking peaceful walks along the beaches of Lake Michigan.

Katie Graff, Assistant Director

Katie has been involved with Highland Park Montessori since she was a student here (Class of 1991!). She worked for the Highland Park Montessori Schools throughout college and fell in love with the Montessori principles and method. Katie graduated from National-Louis University with a BA in Early Childhood Education and Psychology of Human Behavior in 2010. She also has a background in technology education and finance. Katie and her husband, Derrick, have three children who are also Highland Park Montessori students/alumni. In her free time, she dabbles in yoga and loves to cook.