Fostering a love of

lifelong learning

Dr. Maria Montessori believed that "to assist a child, we must provide [them] with an environment which will enable [them] to develop freely." This is why every facet of our environment fosters a sense of spontaneity within an orderly framework. 

From our expansive outdoor spaces to our carefully curated classrooms, your child will delight in a child-led education rooted in respect, harmony, and community.

The AMI-Accredited Montessori Classroom Environment

Mississippi Valley Montessori School symbol in terracotta outline

A mixed, three-year age group in each classroom to foster leadership and growth

Mississippi Valley Montessori School symbol in green outline

One AMI-trained teacher to assist with each age level represented in each class

Mississippi Valley Montessori School symbol in beige outline

Uninterrupted work cycles using quality materials to encourage independence

Circular MVMS brand icon

Children’s House

Explore

Our Montessori classrooms are intentionally designed to be a second home for your children. Both classrooms offer a variety of flexible learning spaces in a well-curated environment.

With lots of natural light and direct access to our outdoor space, children can explore their natural curiosities and engage in independent learning.

classroom view showing child-sized tables, counters, and shelves
Child playing with a hands on activity
Neatly arranged trays and Montessori tools on organized classroom shelving
Wooden Montessori materials displayed on open shelves near natural light

Our Classroom Features

Child-Led Learning

With purposefully arranged materials, our classrooms encourage children to engage in their interests at their own pace.

Order & Organization

Children thrive in uncluttered, tidy environments that minimize distractions, helping them refine their focus and attention.

Harmony & Unity

Our mixed-age classrooms instill a sense of peace and belonging, supporting children as they develop social and emotional skills.

Beautiful Quality Materials

Our natural materials inspire your child to explore their curiosities while developing their concentration and confidence.

Child-First Design

All of our counters, tables, shelves, and chairs are at a child’s level, promoting independence and freedom.

Hands-On Environment

Hands-on learning helps children actively engage with materials, nature, and real-world experiences.

  • “Thank you for the opportunity to observe. It was such a joy to watch your students learn together. I was especially impressed by how the self-directed work created a culture of purpose, how the students showed shared responsibility for their learning and classroom environment.”

    Kelli Kiedrowski

Children running around outside playing together

Our Outdoor Space

Exploring

Unique to our school, we are happily surrounded by nature and encourage children to be outside daily. With direct access to the sprawling acreage, children love to explore our vast backyard area.

A short walk from Dodge Nature Center’s trailhead and Weschcke Park, we often take walking field trips. This helps us practice routines and build observation and listening skills—all while engaging in imaginative play.

  • Surrounded by mature pine trees, our outdoor space features:

    • A rain garden 

    • A raised garden with flower beds

    • A natural sand area surrounded by boulders

    • A large grassy area for running and yard games

    • A paved area for bikes, trikes, and scooters

    • A shady pergola for group work

    • A composting area and worm farm

    • An outdoor chalkboard

    • A water tower and a water trough system

    We also provide rain suits for all children, so we can spend time outdoors daily. Whether your child wants to engage in nature, learn about the plant growth cycle, or simply wants space to roam and play, it’s all possible at MVMS.

"Let the children be free; encourage them; let them run outside when it is raining; let them remove their shoes when they find a puddle of water."

-DR. MARIA MONTESSORI

Children playing in the MVMS indoor gym during inclement weather

Our Indoor Gym

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In Minnesota, you must always be prepared for inclement weather. On these occasions, we have private access to an on-site, full-size indoor gym. It has ample space for children to run, explore, and engage in group play.

  • “Our experience with MVMS has been absolutely remarkable in so many ways. From day one, we felt the quality of care and over the years it’s only gotten stronger. MVMS goes above and beyond by authentically implementing and growing culture by connecting with families and community to sculpt rich and meaningful experiences and environment.

    MVMS is truly a rare gem. Our kids love going to this school and love their teachers. We couldn’t recommend it more.”

    Chris & Sharri Keller

Offering flexible half-day and full-day programs

Experience the difference by observing our Montessori classrooms