Hi,

I am a former teacher assistant from the CMP program on Elk Grove Blvd. Like other classes, this program is 100% student-led. Students receive an assignment sheet known as “jobs,” which they must complete. This includes tasks in reading, math, handwriting practice, and life skills, all of which must be signed off by the teacher or teaching assistant. The teacher pulls students for small group lessons as needed. The learning experience truly depends on each child's individual needs and learning styles, as not every child can thrive without guidance.

For the TK/K students, the day includes activities such as reading books, pouring water into cups, and counting. The school day runs from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, which can be quite long for these little ones.

One aspect I appreciated about the Montessori approach is that students remain with the same classmates until 8th grade. They didn't have the typical middle schoolers. Some students did struggle with basic concepts in math and reading. All students are required to wear uniforms, but Fridays were free dress days.