Parent Handbook & Policies

I. Our Foundation

1. Our Purpose

Supporting a Firm Foundation for the Child’s Life.

2. Mission Statement

To provide premium, developmentally appropriate care for the youngest members of our community. Rooted Montessori Community is dedicated to creating a safe, loving environment that supports the development of strong, healthy, and secure roots for every child. Following the example of Dr. Maria Montessori—who viewed her work as a service to the child’s God-given nature—we protect the dignity of early childhood through a prepared environment that honors each child’s individual blueprint. While our founding team is rooted in the Christian faith, we are an inclusive community that welcomes and loves all families regardless of their background, honoring every person as a unique image bearer of God.

3. Vision Statement

To be the gold standard for early childhood stewardship, where children, families, and educators grow together in the light of Christ. We seek to support children as they develop themselves according to God’s design, providing an environment where they can feel, see, and absorb God’s love in every interaction. We envision a generation of children firmly established in their identity, flourishing in their unique purpose, and prepared to lead lives of grace.

4. Core Values

• The Child: A Divine Masterpiece (0–6 Focus): We believe the most important period in a person's life is birth to age six. We treat this window with the highest professional and spiritual stewardship, respecting the child's internal "guide" as they build the foundation of who they are meant to be.

• The Prepared Adult: The Humble Guide & Lifelong Learner: Our educators are "Servant-Leaders" who practice spiritual humility and deep observation. We invest in our adults through ongoing training so they can better support the child’s unfolding journey.

• The Prepared Environment: Curated for Discovery: Our classrooms are meticulously curated sanctuaries that allow exploration and curiosity to flourish, proven by science and refined by over a century of practice.

• Scientific Excellence & Spiritual Truth: We marry the proven scientific research of the Montessori method with the eternal truths of the Christian faith. We believe a high-fidelity Montessori environment honors the way a child’s brain and soul were designed to learn.

• Authentic Community: A Home Away from Home: We believe in partnering with families to create a "village." By providing a home away from home, we ensure that every staff member, parent, and child feels the security of being "Rooted" in an authentic fellowship of grace.

• Authentic Community: A Sanctuary: Our doors and hearts are open to everyone. Every child, parent, and staff member is a divine image bearer, worthy of deep respect, dignity, and care.

5. Inclusive Grace Statement

At Rooted, our faith doesn't lead us to build walls; it leads us to open doors. We believe that because every human being is created in the image of God, every family brings a unique and valuable light to our community. Whether you share our faith or follow another path, you will find here a community that respects your journey, honors your child’s design, and offers a firm foundation of love and excellence.

II. Philosophy and Methodology

1. Scientific Observation

The cornerstone of our program is the scientific observation of the child. Our lower-than-state ratios (1:3 for infants, 1:6 for toddlers) are a pedagogical necessity. They allow our Guides the time to observe and document each child’s interests and "sensitive periods," ensuring the environment is constantly curated to meet their developmental needs.

2. Behavior Guidance

We believe discipline is developed internally. We use:

• Modeled Communication: Staff model respectful, clear language.

• Practiced Interaction: "Grace and Courtesy" lessons allow children to practice social scenarios.

• Redirection: Gently guiding a child toward constructive activity.

• Prohibited Actions: Per MN Rule 9503.0055, corporal punishment, emotional abuse, and shaming are strictly prohibited.

III. Enrollment and Financial Contract

1. The Enrollment Process

1. Free Waitlist: Joining our waitlist is free.

2. Family Interview: Required to ensure alignment of values.

3. Invitation to Apply: Non-refundable $150 Application Fee.

4. Contract & Phase-in: Completed via Procare.

2. All-Inclusive Tuition Rates