Lower Elementary Program

For children in grades 1 – 3, integrating them into a multi-age classroom that promotes independence and critical thinking.

Our Lower Elementary Program (Grades 1 – 3) builds on the foundation of the Casa Program and is designed to help children grow into confident, capable, and compassionate individuals.

Our Lower Elementary classroom was born from the passion of parents who felt their children’s Montessori journey wasn’t yet complete. Almost 20 years later, the class continues to flourish—offering a rich, dynamic learning environment for children in Grades 1 through 3.

During these years, children move into what Dr. Maria Montessori called the second plane of development—a time marked by curiosity, imagination, and a strong desire to understand the “why” behind things. Students begin to think more abstractly, explore moral questions, and enjoy working collaboratively with their peers. This plane of development truly thrives on cooperation and shared discovery; children learn that together they can create something greater than they could accomplish alone.

In the Montessori Lower Elementary environment, each child works with the guidance of the teacher to create a personalized weekly work plan. This plan helps them set meaningful goals, manage their time effectively, and take increasing ownership of their learning. The adult-to-child ratio is 1-12, and lessons are presented in small groups or individually, allowing children to move at their own pace—often exploring concepts well beyond traditional grade levels when they are ready.

The curriculum is broad and interconnected, encompassing language, mathematics, geometry, science, history, geography, and cultural studies. Through hands-on materials, research projects, and community engagement, children develop not only academic skills but also independence, empathy, and a deep sense of belonging.

At Belleville Montessori School, we make every effort to ensure each child feels engaged, supported, and connected—to their peers, their community, and their own learning journey.

I enrolled my child in the Belleville Montessori at 3 years old. She joined Tadger's Casa class for three years before graduating to Shari's primary class until the end of Grade 3. Our experience at Montessori was remarkable, and my child still talks about her teachers and experiences there (she is now in high school). Montessori set the benchmark for education and learning for her, and set a strong foundation of valuable skills for self-directed learning. The student-led learning environment, multi-grade/age classrooms, made for the best early schooling experience for my child.

Christy M.

We have had two children go through the early childhood program and continue through to grade 3 graduation at the Montessori school, and it has been an incredible experience for both of them! The teachers and staff at Montessori feel like family, providing exceptional teaching, attention and care while addressing each child's individual needs. Their commitment to ensuring that every child succeeds is second to none.

Jenn

Belleville Montessori has been more than a daycare or school program for our children. They have learned and grown in a caring and supportive environment where they have been encouraged to take risks, try new things, and make new friends. We are regularly surprised by the knowledge they have acquired, but more importantly, by the values that are encouraged and demonstrated in the classroom. The staff and families have become friends we will keep with us long past graduation.

Heather B.

Both of our daughters attended Belleville Montessori, and now our granddaughter is carrying on the tradition. That alone says how much we love this school. The teachers truly love their students, and it shows in everything they do —from the beautiful art projects to the thoughtful lessons to the care they show each day. It’s such a magical place that offers a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn, grow and explore. We’re so grateful for the foundation this school has given our family.

The Walmsley's

Our son loved his time at the Belleville Montessori School. He became more confident, independent, and curious every day. The teachers truly cared about him and helped him learn in ways that fit his personality. We were so grateful to see him excited about school and proud of what he was learning. Marcia, Tadger and Shari became like an extended family to him and we are still in touch with them to this day.

Shawn & Raylene P.