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A Montessori School for Children Age 2 to Grade 3

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Admission FAQs

First of all, why Evergreen?

Click to see why Evergreen parent Erin Uritus chose a Montessori education for her daughters.

    


Other Admission FAQs

Click to see answers to common questions from other prospective families. 

What distinguishes your program?

The most distinguishing characteristic of Evergreen School is the quality and expertise of our faculty.  Our teachers are committed to the Montessori philosophy.  They believe in the capability and dignity of each child. Our primary goal is to foster and enhance each child’s natural sense of joy and wonder. Evergreen is characterized by collaboration, kindness and a strong sense of mission and purpose.

What do parents say about Evergreen?

Our parents appreciate their child's relationship with teachers, and our caring community. Read parent testimonials.

How is the program comprehensive and balanced?

Our Montessori classroom program is complemented by specials including music, art, physical education, library and Spanish.  By participating in specials twice each week, children experience continuity of their learning. Outdoor recess for 45 minutes every day in an all-natural Playgarden gives our students the essential opportunity to connect with nature and have the kind of free play and social time that is vital to physical, social and emotional development.

How does Evergreen help new students transition to school?

Our teachers are committed to knowing each child as an individual. They welcome new children to their classrooms and take time through one-on-on lessons to ensure that new children feel safe and cared for.  Each teacher uses a series of specific lessons to orient new children from the first moment they enter the classroom.

Should my child be in the Toddler or Primary class?

Our guiding philosophy is to minimize transitions for children and never rush them through a program.  Children should feel confident when making a tranisition. Children should be secure with their toileting skills before starting in Primary.  Our Director of Admission, Kara Stegeman is here to help with placement questions.

When should I apply?

The school year begins in September and ends in June.

We accept applications at any time during the year.  Most programs fill up quickly, so we encourage families to let us know that they are interested in enrolling as soon as they can.

Financial aid awards are made February and March, so families should follow finacial aid timeline carefully to have the best chance at receiving tuition support. 

When space permits, students can start start at any time during the year.  Toddlers may start on their second birthday.

Can you meet my child's advanced academic needs in a multiage classroom?

The Montessori program is individualized and open-ended. Children continue to be challenged at every step of the way with more and more complex lessons and classwork.

Is the school religiously affiliated?

Our program has no religious affliation or program. Our school welcomes and honors families of all faith backgrounds. At Evergreen, we strive to intentionally embed the values of diversity, inclusion, and equity throughout our programs and daily life. Our classroom curriculum places special emphasis on the exploration of culture with the express purpose of celebrating the heritage, dignity and worth of each child.

How do parents participate in their children's education at Evergreen School?

Evergreen has an active parent assoiciation and each classroom provides opportunities for volunteers, visitors and more.  In addition, a series of special programs and events take place each year where parent involvement is essential.

How do Montessori students transition to traditional schools?

The skills taught at Evergreen, including the emphasis on curiosity, independence and responsibility help make the transition from our Montessori program to a traditional program a smooth adjustment.  

In our experience, our students transition extremely well to the academic work in traditional schools.  They are confident in their abilities and they enjoy learning. They are ahead in some acadmic areas. Some Evergreen students have found classwork too easy or boring at first.  And they have express frustration initially at the pace of their new class and lack of opportunities for independent work.  In a short amount to time, former students report that they have made new friends and have adjusted to the expectations of their new school.

Many Evergreen alums report that although they miss many aspects of their Montessori classroom, they are able to excel in their new one.

How is discipline handled at Evergreen School?

The main goal of our program is to help children develop confidence, independence and self-regulation. Therefore our discipline policies emphasise respecting the individual and guiding children to make good choices. Discipline is instructive and not punative.  Children are encouraged every day to take responsibility for their actions and contribute to a community where everyone's rights are respected.

Where do graduates go to fourth grade?

Our graduates attend some of the finest public and private schools in the DC region. Their confidence, academic skills and ability to work with others makes for an easy transition to new environments. Read about life after Elementary.