Is the school approved by the state of Washington?

Every year of operation, we have been approved as a private school in the state of Washington. In order to comply with the state requirements, we undergo a health and fire inspection, maintain copies of important records, submit enrollment information to the state, file credentials, and guarantee a minimum of 1,000 hours of instruction in standard curriculum areas. By obtaining state approval, your child's education at Cedar Tree will be accepted at any other public school in the U.S.

What are the qualifications of your staff?

All lead teaching staff are Montessori trained for their level. Specialists, such as Music or Physical Education teachers, may not be Montessori trained but we work together to ensure that their methods follow the same philosophy.

How many children are in a class?

In the Lower Elementary classroom, there are up to 24 children, with two teachers. At the Upper Elementary level, the classroom has expanded from 6 children with one teacher when it began in 2005, to 15 children with two teachers in 2007, and continues to grow. The students receive a great deal of one-on-one teaching.

Do you teach religion or are you affiliated with any particular religion?

Montessori education is not associated with any particular religion. We do teach respect for all religious beliefs as part of our cultural curriculum.

Do you assign homework?

Cedar Tree Montessori does assign homework. Homework reinforces concepts taught at school, offers opportunities for family projects and encourages children to learn outside of the classroom. Homework is due once a week.

How do your students do when they move to other schools?

Studies show children who have completed a Montessori K-6 education are typically two to three years above grade level. Generally, students fit in well because of their highly developed social skills. We maintain contact with students who have moved on and often invite them back to visit on days they have off. If you would like to speak to the parents of a Cedar Tree graduate regarding this issue, please contact Kim at the school number on the home page.

What if I change my mind once I have registered?

We often have more applications than spots available. If you think you will not attend after registering, please contact the school as soon as possible so we offer your spot to a family on our waiting list.

How do I know what my child is working on in school?

At Cedar Tree, good parent-teacher communication is a priority. You can look at your child’s worklist each week to see what new lessons he or she has had. You can read the weekly newsletter for news of the classrooms and upcoming events. You can visit the classroom with your child and “hang out” with him or her as he or she goes through the day. You can volunteer if you would like to become more involved on a regular basis.

Your child’s teacher is always willing to set up time to talk with you about the progress of your child outside of the two parent conference periods. You can catch us in the parking lot at dismissal time to set up a time. You can also leave a message on the school phone for a specific teacher and we will call you back. Please don’t ever feel shy if you have a question or concern about your child.