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Ridgeline
Montessori Public Charter School opened in Fall
2000 with a lower elementary classroom (grades 1-3). In Fall 2001
we offered a lower elementary classroom (grades 1-2) and an upper
elementary classroom (grades 3, 4,and
5). In Fall 2002, we added extended-day
Kindergarten and expanded into a third classroom, serving 86
children in grades K-6. In Fall 2003,
we welcomed 114 students, added a fourth classroom, and began our
expansion into middle school. In Fall
2004, we enrolled 170 children and offered the full K-8 program our
founders envisioned. Ridgeline now serves more than 220 students in
eight classrooms. Ridgeline Montessori is growing and thriving!
More Ridgeline history
Our home is the
former Frances Willard
Elementary School in South Eugene, where
we enjoy use of the property’s large playgrounds and playing fields,
along with one of the nicest gymnasiums in town. We also appreciate
the small covered outdoor play area, the ample garden space, and the
availability of a kitchen, cafeteria, and stage.
Operating a young
school such as ours requires many hands and hearts, but the effort
shows every day. Our children are learning in happy, industrious
classrooms that are rich in materials and experiences. Our
experienced, Montessori-trained teachers demonstrate their
commitment in the long hours they devote to creating the learning
environment, and in their standing availability for parent questions
and concerns. Teachers Cheri, Eric, Virginia, Diana, Paula, Gregg,
Jacque, Janell, and Jennifer deserve the lion’s share of the credit
for what Ridgeline is today, but we couldn’t get far without the
leadership of Principal Cindy Bass and Montessori Administrator
Chrystell Reed. We also have instructional assistants in each
classroom who bring their own Montessori experience and wisdom to
each child. And we can’t forget our specialists in art, music,
Spanish, and PE! They are gems – people with whom the kids have
genuinely bonded.
The magic that is
Montessori proves itself powerful each year, without fail. Even new
students who had no experience with the Montessori
method have quickly grasped their
responsibilities as learners. Parents say their kids
are anxious to get to school and start on their work. Teachers
report that their students become so engrossed in what they’re doing
that sometimes even recess seems like an interruption!
This wonderful
school is, like every school, a work in progress. Questions abound:
Can we continue to grow? Are there new ways to enrich the learning
experience for our students? But this much is certain: Ridgeline
Montessori will be all that our committed community – parents,
students, and teachers – is willing to make of it. As long as we
have an excellent
staff, and families who share time, talents, and treasure with us,
we know we will continue to offer one of the best public Montessori
programs available anywhere.
Ridgeline General Information
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