Key West The Newspaper

Public charter school May Sands Montessori announces its open application period for the 2018-2019 school year, beginning Monday, February 26. Parents and guardians of children slated for grades Kindergarten through 8 may apply for the tuition-free school, with acceptance based on state-regulated lottery procedures to take place May 4 at 4:15 at the school located at 1400 United Street #110.

“We believe Montessori education should be accessible to all students, without the high cost of tuition,” says Principal Lynn Barras.  “We welcome all families who are interested to come and learn more about our school’s Montessori public education program.”

May Sands Montessori is the first charter school in Monroe County, established in 1997 by a group of dedicated parents eager to bring Maria Montessori’s well-proven methods of education to the island.  The school offers an alternative to traditional education through authentic Montessori programming, and a rigorous, developmentally-appropriate curriculum, with a focus on peace education.

The A-rated, high performing school is open to all children and strives to reflect the diversity of the community while guiding students in the development of curiosity, self-motivation, and respect.  Families can visit the campus to tour classrooms during a Community Open House held on March 1 from 5:30pm – 6:30pm.

“As we approach our school’s 20th anniversary, it is a time to reflect on our success as well as a time to look forward on how we can best be of service to our community,” says Barras.

Applications will be available on the school’s website and office, with open enrollment closing at noon on Friday, April 20. Enrollment announcements for the 2018-2019 school year will be made the week of May 7.

For more information or to schedule a time to observe the Montessori model at work in the classrooms, contact Principal Lynn Barras at 305. 293.1400 x 53418 or visit MaySandsMontessori.com.