Ridgeline Montessori

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 was the former Frances Willard Elementary School in South Eugene, where we enjoyed 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, Bonnie, Emily, Diana, Paula, Demitria, 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 Administrator Trish DeJohn 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.