Why Country Montessori
Why Families Choose Country Montessori in Poway
Choosing a school is a big decision. Since 1989, Poway families have chosen Country Montessori School for authentic Montessori learning, teachers who stay for years, small classes and one caring campus from age 2½ through 5th grade.
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- WASC accredited
- Full member of AMS
- Nonprofit since 1989
- 5.0 ★ on Google
- A+ on Niche
What sets us apart
8 reasons families choose CMS
Authentic Montessori
We are WASC accredited and a full member of AMS. Credentialed Montessori teachers lead every class, using hands-on materials and lessons matched to each child.
Teachers who stay
Our teachers average more than 12 years at CMS, so families get experienced, familiar faces who know their children and their school well.
Small classes, real attention
A 1:12 ratio in preschool and kindergarten and 1:10 in grades 1–5 means teachers can observe each child and give the right lesson at the right time.
One campus, age 2½ to 5th grade
Children can start preschool at 2½ and continue through kindergarten and 5th grade without changing schools.
Care for working families
Classes run 8:30–2:30 for preschool and kindergarten and 8:30–3:00 for grades 1–5, with before- and after-school care on campus from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Learning beyond the classroom
Spanish and music start in preschool, kindergarten adds art and P.E., and grades 1–5 add digital literacy. Every level, including preschool, has field trips and community service opportunities.
Room to run and explore
Our nearly 3-acre campus in northwest Poway has gardens, large playgrounds and several play areas, so children spend real time outdoors every day.
A nonprofit, community school
CMS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Throughout the school year, families share about their cultural holidays, and our community comes together for beach cleanups, the Halloween Carnival, Spring Fling, food drives and service projects.
The Montessori difference
What it means for your child
Montessori is more than a teaching method. It shapes how children think, work and treat others.
They learn by doing
Hands-on materials turn ideas like numbers, letters and maps into things children can touch and explore, building real understanding instead of memorization.
They move at their own pace
Teachers present new lessons when each child is ready, so children who are ready for more get it, and children who need more time get it too.
They grow as leaders
In multi-age classrooms, younger children learn by watching older ones, and older children build confidence by helping and leading.
They become independent
Children choose purposeful work within clear routines, which builds focus, responsibility and the confidence to solve problems on their own.
Recognized in San Diego
Trusted by parents, recognized by our community
Named a 2027 A+ School, with A grades for teachers and diversity.
Voted a Favorite Private School, Best of North Inland 2026.
Named Best Private School, Best of North Inland 2025.
Rated 5.0 on Google, in parents' own words.
★★★★★ 5.0 on Google
Why parents say they chose CMS
“CMS is an amazing school where your children will not only gain knowledge in English, Math, and many other subjects from an exceptional team of educators, but also learn to be independent and develop the skills to organize their own days and lives.”
“The CMS community is the icing on the cake: engaged, kind families who share a deep commitment to their children's growth. We feel so fortunate to be a part of it.”
“All the CMS staffs are warm and caring. They even offer occasional date night and monthly enrichment programs!”
Find the right program
Programs from preschool through 5th grade
Questions
Questions parents ask
What makes Country Montessori different from other schools in Poway?
CMS combines authentic, accredited Montessori teaching with long-tenured teachers, small classes (1:12 in preschool and kindergarten, 1:10 in grades 1–5), care from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and one campus from age 2½ through 5th grade.
Is Country Montessori accredited?
Yes. Country Montessori School is WASC accredited and a full member of the American Montessori Society (AMS).
Is Country Montessori a private school?
Yes. CMS is a nonprofit private school in Poway, serving families since 1989.
How experienced are the teachers?
Every class is led by a credentialed Montessori teacher, and our teachers average more than 12 years at CMS.
Where do CMS families come from?
Our campus is in northwest Poway, and families join us from across North County Inland, including Rancho Bernardo (RB), Rancho Peñasquitos (PQ), Scripps Ranch, 4S Ranch and Escondido.
How can I see if CMS is right for my family?
The best way is a tour during the school day, when you can watch children at work and ask our team your questions. Book a tour online or call (858) 673-1756.
See why families choose CMS
Tour during the school day to see children at work, meet our teachers and walk our Poway campus.
12642 Monte Vista Rd, Poway · (858) 673-1756