IMA’s mission is to provide an environment for children to foster their natural love of learning while developing the whole-child. IMA children develop 21st century skills such as collaboration, curiosity, critical thinking, and adaptability through purposeful learning. IMA strives to uphold a green school environment and is certified through the Association Montessori Internationale. This is IMA’s twelfth year operating and fourth year in our newly constructed building, complete with outdoor learning gardens and classrooms. IMA believes a respectful, thoughtful, and peaceful child will create a peaceful and sustainable future.
General Info:
Address: 2925 W 146th St, Carmel, IN 46074
Phone: (317) 569-1290
Website: https://imamontessori.org/
Related Article: Read more about Indiana Montessori Academy’s summer program!
Q&A with Indiana Montessori Academy:
What makes Indiana Montessori Academy unique?
We are the only school in Indiana certified by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI).
What is Indiana Montessori Academy’s educational philosophy?
Montessori
What is Indiana Montessori Academy’s age/grade range?
18 months-6 years old
What is your enrollment policy? Are there any key dates parents should be aware of?
Our enrollment process is three steps that includes a private tour or attendance of a Prospective Parent Evening, parent observation and parent interview. We typically enroll one year prior for our Primary Classrooms and two years prior for our Toddler Community.
What are the standard school day hours? Does Indiana Montessori Academy offer flexible day/hour options? Is before/after school care available?
Standard hours are 8:30-3:00, with before care available at 7:30 and after care available until 5:30. IMA offers a half-day option which is 8:30-11:50.
How many children are in each class? How are children divided up?
Children are grouped by age. Our Toddler Community has children ages 18 months through 2.5 or 3 years of age. Our Primary Classrooms build a community of children ages 2.5 – 6 years.
What is the teacher/child ratio?
Our toddler program has twelve children with two teachers and our primary program has up to thirty-two children with two teachers.
What are the teacher’s credentials?
Each Directress (teacher) holds a Montessori certification.
Is parental participation required?
We do ask that parents have a good understanding of our program and are able to mimic aspects of the classroom environment into their homes. This allows for consistency with the child and therefore allows for more success. In terms of classroom participation, parental involvement is not desired.
How do teachers communicate with parents? How often do parents receive updates?
We hold two formal conferences:twice a year for Primary and three times a year for our Toddler Community. In addition to this, we send out monthly newsletters and parents have access to an app called Transparent Classroom. We are always available via email or can schedule a meeting.
to know why? Come visit with us during a personal tour or a Prospective Parent Evening!
Does Indiana Montessori Academy offer support for students with special needs?
On a case-by-case basis.
How much time do the children spend outside?
Children who are here extended day hours or more spend a minimum of thirty to forty-five minutes outside per day. This is their recess, free-play time. In addition to this Primary aged children access the learning gardens during their work cycles and will work outside throughout the school year as much as possible.
Are meals and/or snacks provided?
Snacks are provided by families. Each family has one week of the school year to bring in snacks. This schedule is sent to families at the beginning of the school year. The week prior to their scheduled snack week, the family will receive a grocery list of items handwritten by the kindergarten children. We ask that families simply purchase these items. Snacks are prepared daily by the children. Items requested are fresh produce or baking ingredients. Nothing processed is ever ordered. Students bring their lunch from home and are kept in their hook space with an ice pack.
Does my child need to be potty-trained?
Children enrolled in the Toddler Community work on toilet learning at school, but children enrolled in our Primary Classrooms should be independent in the restroom and wearing underwear daily. All children at our school wear underwear.
What enrichment programs/activities are offered?
We enjoy gardening, singing, and participating in art projects on a regular basis at our school.
What are Indiana Montessori Academy’s safety policies?
All doors into the building are locked at all times. The outer vestibule door is unlocked during school hours and the inner door remains locked. Entrance into the building is only allowed by an adult. Identification is checked when necessary.
Who should parents contact for more information about Indiana Montessori Academy?
What makes your teachers excited to go into school each day?
We love witnessing each child’s individual growth and fostering their sense of independence!
