I’ve found a great resource on how to find out if a school that says they are a Montessori school really is a Montessori school.

Anyone who is interested in finding or starting a Montessori school should be aware of the fact that the word Montessori, is not patented and anyone can use it. Thus, the use of the word Montessori is no assurance of quality. If you want to enroll your child in a Montessori school it is important that you learn what a Montessori school should be like, and then observe children working in the school you are considering.

In a good school there will be:

1. A certified Montessori-trained adult, the teacher and preferably also the administrator. The teacher or director will not be giving traditional group lessons, but will be implementing the progress of each child through individual lessons and record keeping.
2. A full range of tested and proven Montessori materials elegant, uncluttered environment.
3. Happy, kind children, busy on self-chosen, uninterrupted work.

There are many different kinds of Montessori teacher certification courses in the world today. Some schools are certified by a particular organization and only have teachers with that certification. Some schools have been known to call themselves Montessori schools even though they have no certified teachers. Parents must look carefully into this question.

Montessori schools are found in tiny church halls, large public school building, even homes. The physical environment is secondary to the natural ability, and the training of the adults.

There is a great need for certified Montessori teachers. Because of this shortage many Montessori schools have long waiting lists. Choose carefully; your child will be entering a second family.

A great place to start your search is to see if the school you are interested in appears here

You can also visit MONTESSORI SCHOOLS to get more info.