Admissions Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there space available, and what is the likelihood my child will be accepted?

Each year, availability for new students depends on the enrollment decisions of our returning families. In Children’s House, our most common openings are for children entering at ages 3 and 4, though occasional spaces become available for 5-year-olds. Elementary enrollment can vary more from year to year, but we typically have openings across grades 1–6.

Because Montessori classrooms are intentionally balanced communities, enrollment decisions are not based solely on age or available space. We thoughtfully consider each child within the context of the classroom community to ensure a supportive environment for all students.

Q: How is classroom placement determined?

When determining classroom placement for new students, our goal is always to create a harmonious balance of ages, genders, personalities, and learning dynamics while considering factors such as available space, current classroom composition, and sibling enrollment.

Once a child enrolls and is placed in a classroom, that classroom becomes their home for the duration of their program: three years in Children’s House and six years in Elementary. Maintaining consistency in the classroom environment, Guides, and peer community allows children to develop strong relationships, build confidence, and benefit from Guides’ deep understanding of their individual growth and development.

Q: When are applications due?

Families may submit an application after completing the required enrollment steps: attending a classroom observation and meeting with our Admissions Coordinator. A submitted application is required to be considered for enrollment.

Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, so we encourage families to apply soon after their observation if they are interested in enrollment for the following school year. Applications submitted by our new enrollment period in March are considered for initial contract offers. 

Q: Do you maintain a waitlist? How do I put my child’s name on it?

Families who complete our online inquiry form are added to our Inquiry List. This allows us to maintain organized records of families interested in future enrollment, but placement on the Inquiry List does not guarantee a space or represent a formal waitlist.

Families on the Inquiry List are invited to attend a classroom observation during the Fall or Spring prior to their desired enrollment year. Following the observation, families may submit an application.

Our formal Waitlist is reserved for families who have completed the observation process, submitted an application, and were not offered a space due to limited availability. Families on the Waitlist will be contacted if a space becomes available that aligns with their child’s age and classroom placement needs.

Q: I applied last year, and my child was not offered a space, yet a neighbor child was able to enroll immediately. How is that possible?

Each year, our classroom communities shift as children move through the Montessori cycles and new families join Little Oak. Because classroom placement is based on creating a balanced community, factors such as age, gender, developmental stage, and sibling priority all influence enrollment decisions.

A child who was not offered a space in one year may have a different opportunity in another year as classroom dynamics change. Families who have submitted an application and are placed on the Waitlist will be contacted first if an appropriate opening becomes available.

Q: Does the school provide lunch & snacks? 

Little Oak does not provide lunch. Children staying for the full day bring a reusable container with a balanced lunch and snack from home.

Food preparation, serving, and care of the eating environment are all meaningful parts of the Montessori classroom experience. Children often participate in Practical Life activities related to food preparation and may have opportunities to enjoy additional classroom snacks as part of this work.

Q: What is your travel and vacation policy?

We encourage regular attendance so children can fully benefit from the consistency, relationships, and learning opportunities within the classroom environment. We understand that occasional absences are unavoidable and are committed to supporting families through those moments.

Because Montessori relies on continuity and connection, this program is best suited for families who are able to maintain consistent attendance throughout the school year. Tuition is based on enrollment in the program and not daily attendance; therefore, we do not offer prorated tuition or reimbursement for planned absences, unexpected absences, weather closures, or emergency school closures.