History

History of St. Croix Montessori School

St. Croix Montessori School (SCMS) was opened thirty years ago with a vision to nurture the mind and spirit of the three-year-old son of its founders. Their interest in research that had been conducted on brain development of young children led them to learn more about Maria Montessori’s philosophy and to open a school in Hudson, WI, which was named Hudson’s Children’s House and More.

In 1994 a larger space was found in Stillwater which became the home school’s home. In 1999, the adjacent property known as “The Ames Farm “was purchased, giving children opportunities to care for chickens and alpacas. Over the years, our menagerie of farm animals has grown, adding mini donkeys and goats to the children’s experience.

Heads of School, excellent staff, dedicated board members, and fantastic family volunteers helped shape the school into what it is today. These individuals volunteered on projects which included the pavilion construction, the farmhouse remodel, playground, and many interior updates.

SCMS’s journey has been dedicated to children, and our commitment to AMI Accredited Montessori Education has been unwavering. Our guiding Montessori principles and values have always been strong and true, allowing us to evolve into more than just a school but also a place where lifelong friendships are made, talents are shared, and memories created.

Valerie Olson is the current AMI Montessori trained Head of School. All teachers at St. Croix Montessori School have completed graduate level training through Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), which is the international organization that upholds the highest standard in Montessori teacher training.

Now as always, St. Croix Montessori School is a community of joyful learners as well as the educators and parents who come together around the mission of serving the needs of the children in our care. As SCMS continues its growth, we are guided by the work of Dr. Maria Montessori and by the children themselves, whose joy in exploration, knowledge and creative expression is a timeless inspiration.