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Frequently Asked Questions About Our Montessori Program

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Montessori Program

  1. Can five year olds enter the program?
    Unfortunately, this age cannot. The model is built on a three-year cycle in which students can begin at ages three or four.
  2. What is reciprocity and how do you apply for it?

    In accordance with Administrative Procedure 6192- Reciprocity-Entrance is offered  through the lottery process on a space- available basis when a student first enters PGCPS from attending a school outside Prince George’s County.  

    The student must have attended at least four (4) consecutive quarters and/or at least two (2) consecutive semesters at a public, charter or private school Montessori program that is affiliated and/or a FULL member with American Montessori Society (AMS) or American Montessori Internationale (AMI).

    1. For parents who seek entry for grades kindergarten and higher, a lottery application must be submitted. Documentation must be submitted indicating they meet the requirements for academic validation.
    2. A parent must submit a request in writing to the Department of Pupil Accounting and School Boundaries.  Placement via reciprocity is made on a space-available basis only and does not offer guaranteed placement.
    3. The written request must include the following:
      1. )current written program description from the school that the student previously attended;
      2. )most recent report card and/or transcript for the student;
      3. )contact information and website for the school previously attended; and
      4. )documentation validating the recent establishment of a Prince George’s County residence.
  3. Is Before and After Care available at the school?
    Before and After Care service is available at each of the three schools.
  4. When will the lottery application open?

    November 1, 2023 - February 9, 2024

  5. How do I apply?
    To apply, visit Apply for 2024-2025: Specialty Programs
  6. How do I get a student ID?
    Please contact your boundary school to set up an appointment to bring in your documents and information for verification.
  7. How do I find my boundary school and the appropriate Montessori school?
    Go to School Finder
  8. How do I contact the Office of Pupil Accounting?
    Go to Office of Pupil Accounting or call 301-952-6300
  9. How is Montessori different from other programs?
    Montessori education distinguishes itself from other programs by emphasizing child-led, hands-on learning, individualized instruction, and a focus on fostering a child's natural curiosity and independence.
  10. Can you apply for early entrance into Kindergarten for the Montessori program?
    Early Entrance into Kindergarten is not allowed for specialty programs.
  11. Are the PreK3 and PreK4 based on income?
    No. There is no income requirement. However, per Administrative Procedure 6192, proof of income is required from all parents/guardians

    once placement has been offered and accepted.

  12. What happens if my child cannot adjust to the program?
    A conference will be scheduled to discuss concerns and next steps that are in the best interest of the student.
  13. Are all of the programs the same?
    Yes, all programs follow the same model and have the same curriculum.
  14. If three year olds attend half-day what time frame is that?
    Each school has the same time schedule, 9:15am-3:55pm.
    Half-day is approximately 9:15am-11:45am
  15. Is there tuition?
    There is no tuition.
  16. How can I contact someone if I have questions?
    Please email montessori@pgcps.org.