Inspiring Lifelong Learning Since 1964
Santa Cruz Montessori education for children ages 18 months to 14 years
Welcome to Santa Cruz Montessori
Santa Cruz Montessori is a private, non-profit school located on two beautiful campuses in Aptos, California. We serve children from 18 months to 14 years, and foster a community of self discovery, responsibility and belonging.
Established in 1964 by a group of local Santa Cruz parents looking for Montessori education for their children, we are proud to celebrate our 60th year providing quality Montessori education for our community.
As a Montessori learning community, we inspire lifelong learning and a peaceful world by nurturing the natural development of the whole child.
Our Programs
Young Children’s Community
18 months–2.5 years
Primary
2.5–6 years
Elementary
6–12 years
Extended Care
Available for all ages
Our Values
Development of the Whole Person
We support the development of the
whole child and foster an environment of
respect and
compassion for self, others, and our environment.
Freedom with Responsibility
We guide children to independence in their learning, encouraging them to identify their interests, passions and strengths, fostering a lifelong
love of learning & discovery.
Diversity & Belonging
The SCM community creates a culture of
belonging
where the richness and complexity of
each individual is honored. We recognize
the interdependence
of all beings and systems of our world.
Community
All members of the Santa Cruz Montessori
community are committed to working together to create a quality Montessori environment. We
embrace collaboration in order to achieve our mission-driven goals.
Discover Santa Cruz Montessori
What Our Community is Saying
Santa Cruz Montessori has been terrific for our daughter! The community, the attention to detail, and thoroughness of the educational philosophy have been inspiring and assuring. We're so happy to find such a wonderful institution.
— Primary Community Parent
I'm continually awed by Santa Cruz Montessori. We've been part of this community for four years, and each year has added an even further layer of intentionality, community, self discovery and growth for our daughter and family as a whole.
— Elementary Community Parent
Over the past 10 years, I have watched my daughters thrive and grow at SCM, excelling in both academics and personal development. They still love school, as one enters high school and the other 8th grade. They are kind, respectful, intelligent individuals, and they have a great work ethic, all of which I contribute to their Montessori education. This foundation has set them up for the rest of their lives. I only wish every child and family could experience this amazing school.
- Wavecrest Junior High Parent