The NWT Montessori Society has long been known and valued for its outstanding reputation for delivering excellent, education in Yellowknife.
The school was founded in 1975 by a group of dedicated parents committed to the principles and philosophies of Dr. Maria Montessori. The original preschool grew and expanded, and in 1998 was granted private school status and permission to offer elementary education for grades K-4.
Further hard work by the Board of Directors and staff resulted in our elementary program becoming part of the public school system with Yellowknife Education District #1 – and in the fall of 2004, the Montessori elementary classes moved to NJ Macpherson School. The Society continues to operate two Casa Primary classes at the Yellowknife Montessori School, and in the fall of 2007, a large waiting list prompted the opening of a third Casa classroom, housed at NJ Macpherson, bringing the current number of classes at the two locations to three, with approximately 50 students in attendance.
The Casa Primary classes at the Yellowknife Montessori School and NJ Macpherson locations are the responsibility of the NWT Montessori Society. The YK1 Public Montessori program is the responsibility of Yellowknife Education District #1. Collaboration between the Society and the District in support of both the programs are set out through a partnership agreement.
The NWT Montessori Society programs are inclusive and non-denominational, enriched by the ethnic persity of our students. For over 30 years the programs have had proven success in providing a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can grow and develop intellectually, emotionally, and socially – developing a life-long love of learning. With a strong commitment to education and to the community of Yellowknife, and with a clear vision for the future, the NWT Montessori Society plans to serve the community of Yellowknife for many years to come by providing a carefully planned, stimulating school environment which will help children develop within themselves the foundational habits, attitudes, skills, and ideas which are essential for a lifetime of creative thinking and learning.