Montessori School in Huntington Beach, CA

Heritage Montessori School:
Located in the historical former family home of Senator John Murdy in Huntington Beach, Orange County, Heritage Montessori School offers an excellent education to children ages 2 through to fourth grade. We follow a well defined, rigorous curriculum that is a blend of classical Montessori roots, modern enhancements, and innovative activities that encourage the development of fundamental skills. Each child progresses on an individual basis within a social setting that is compatible for him / her. Our children test, on average, approximately two years above grade level. We are dedicated to providing a safe and loving environment that will enrich your child's mind and spirit.

Our Curriculum includes: 
- Cultural enrichment including foreign languages and geography.
- An integrated approach to language based on phonics.
- A firm mathematical foundation developed through the use of didactic materials and supplemental workbooks in the elementary levels.
- The program develops the child's natural tendency for physical and social growth.
- A well-rounded curriculum including visual arts, drama, music, gymnastics and field trips.

Education Programs:
Montessori Programs for ages 2 1/2 years through to 4th grade:

- Stepping Stones:
For children ages 2 1/2- 4 years. Classes are offered 5 mornings, 3 full days, or 5 full days.

The Stepping Stone program is designed to give each child a positive first school experience and to expand his world beyond home. The materials and activities in the class satisfy the children's natural curiosity, sense of order, and desire for independence as they learn and explore through their senses. The children are given freedom of choice and movement in a safe and nurturing environment within clearly defined limits. They are also given the opportunity to interact with other children and to develop and practice their language and social skills.

Each day your child will be engaged in a variety of activities including music, art, story time, dance, and all of the Montessori developmental areas in the class- your child will love learning! Your child need not be toilet trained. This service is offered when he shows signs of readiness. Morning snack is included. However, children bring their own lunch or purchase hot lunches.

- Pre-K Class:
For children ages 3-4 years. Classes are offered 5 mornings or 5 days per week all day.

In the Pre-K class children are exposed to an academically and culturally enriched environment. The children learn respect, for themselves, others, and their surroundings while they also learn to work together. They are given freedom of choice and movement within a well ordered and carefully prepared social community. Interwoven during the day are opportunities for your child to explore his interests in art, music, dance, and the Montessori centers.

Children are guided by the teacher to explore and develop at their own pace. The aim of the program is to help the child develop all aspects of his personality by fostering independence, confidence, concentration, self-motivation and a love of learning. The children bring their own lunch and snacks or they can purchase hot lunches. Children participating in this class must be 100% toilet trained.

- Kindergarten:
For children ages 5 years. Classes are offered 5 full days per week. Dress code includes mandatory uniforms to be worn Monday through Thursday.

Children will be accepted into the Kindergarten program if they are five years old by December 1st and they demonstrate readiness for the program.

The teacher has a well organized structured Montessori environment equipped with hands-on learning materials which are sequentially arranged to allow the children the freedom to learn at their own pace. In addition, each child receives consumable workbooks in the core subjects that match their ability in that particular area of study. Mornings are spent with lessons and activities from the core curriculum and rest of the day is spent rotating from different enrichment lessons which include music, science, geography, dance, computers, art and Spanish.

Each year the students show off their talents in the winter recital and open house. This year the parents were treated to an "Evening in Japan". The physical education program emphasizes gross motor development and free play. Also, special trips are planned as a component to the ongoing curriculum. The children provide their own lunch and snacks or hot lunches can be purchased.

- Elementary Program:
The elementary class is comprised of children ages 6-9 years. School uniforms are required Monday through Thursday.

The mixed age elementary class corresponds to grades 1 st through 4 th , although students learn at their own individualized levels, report cards with grade equivalents are used for easy transition when the child eventually leaves the Montessori system.

The classroom is very structured while maintaining a curriculum that allows for individualized progress. The elementary program is steeped in Montessori philosophy while integrating contemporary learning tools to prepare the student for his eventual departure from the Montessori system. These tools include navigating test books, research activities, writing and grammar workshops, test taking skills, organizational skills, and time management. Each year the children take an exit exam that ranks their yearly progress against children across the nation. Our children routinely test very well.

The children have both an organized and unstructured recess each day. Advanced art class, Spanish lessons, grammar, and computer time are part of the weekly curriculum. Children and parents look forward to annual events such as the winter recital, science fair, spring garden, and thematic study activities.

Additionally:  Special classes, enrichment classes & summer program.