Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Empowering Students with Montessori Education in Ann Arbor
Daycroft School has been dedicated to empowering students through Montessori education for over 56 years. Founded on the principles developed by Maria Montessori, we provide a student-centered environment that nurtures individual differences and fosters self-directed learning. Our low student-to-teacher ratios ensure personalized attention, with classrooms designed to accommodate diverse learning styles and promote academic growth. We emphasize cultural diversity, preparing students to thrive as global citizens while maintaining a strong partnership between families and educators. Our multi-age classrooms encourage mentorship and continuity, allowing students to develop at their own pace.With programs spanning early childhood through sixth grade, we focus on building confidence, compassion, and a lifelong love of learning. Our natural setting in Ann Arbor provides an ideal environment for exploration and community bonding. Parents consistently praise our dedicated staff for fostering academic and emotional growth through patient, individualized instruction. We maintain rigorous standards in both educational outcomes and character development, ensuring students are well-prepared for future academic endeavors. Our commitment to innovation is reflected in our strategic planning for continued growth and improvement as an independent school.
Services
Montessori Education
Early Childhood Program
Elementary Program
Before School Care
After School Care
Enrichment Activities
Summer Camps
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- We implement Maria Montessori's proven educational philosophy with 56 years of experience.
- Our low student-to-teacher ratios enable personalized learning plans for every child.
- Multi-age classrooms foster natural mentorship and continuous academic progression.
- Cultural diversity prepares students for success in a global community.
- We maintain a 4:1 toddler classroom ratio for optimal early childhood development.
What people say
Lifelong love of learning
Dedicated staff
Positive learning environment
Cultural diversity
No child left behind
Services
Montessori Education
Daycroft's Montessori programs emphasize self-directed learning through hands-on materials and individualized instruction. Students progress at their own pace while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Our approach cultivates independence, creativity, and intrinsic motivation through structured freedom of choice.
Early Childhood Program
Our toddler and preschool programs establish foundational skills through sensory-based exploration and practical life activities. Small class sizes with specialized Montessori materials support early cognitive, social, and motor development. Certified educators guide children aged 18 months to 6 years in a prepared learning environment.
Elementary Program
Grades 1-6 curriculum combines Montessori principles with state standards through interdisciplinary projects and collaborative learning. Multi-age classrooms promote leadership development while individualized lesson plans address diverse learning styles. Emphasis on research skills, mathematical reasoning, and cultural studies prepares students for future academic success.
Before School Care
Supervised care available from 7:30-8:00 AM for grades Y5-6 and 7:30-8:30 AM for toddlers/preschool. Structured activities include outdoor play and quiet games to prepare children for the academic day. Monthly billing with flexible attendance options accommodates working families.
After School Care
After-school supervision Monday-Thursday 3:30-5:30 PM and Friday 3:30-5:00 PM includes enrichment activities, homework support, and recreational play. Programs emphasize social development through group projects and creative expression while maintaining Montessori-aligned learning principles.
People
David Lee
Head of School
David Lee leads Daycroft School with over two decades of Montessori educational experience. He champions student-centered learning while maintaining rigorous academic standards. As both administrator and parent, he fosters community partnerships and strategic growth initiatives.
Michele McGrath
Care Program Coordinator
Michele McGrath manages Daycroft's before and after-school care programs. With Montessori certification and child development expertise, she creates structured environments that balance educational support with recreational activities for students of all ages.
Lisa Edmondson
Admissions Director
Lisa Edmondson guides families through Daycroft's admissions process with personalized support. She coordinates school tours and maintains community outreach programs while ensuring alignment with Montessori educational principles and institutional goals.
Questions
What makes Daycroft's Montessori program unique?
Our program combines Maria Montessori's principles with modern educational practices through low student-to-teacher ratios, multi-age classrooms, and individualized learning plans that adapt to each child's developmental needs.
What age groups does Daycroft serve?
Daycroft educates children from 18 months through sixth grade with specialized programs for toddler, preschool, elementary, and middle school levels.
How does Daycroft support working families?
We offer extended care programs with before-school supervision starting at 7:30 AM and after-school care until 5:30 PM, featuring structured activities and homework support.
What is Daycroft's student-to-teacher ratio?
Our ratios range from 4:1 in toddler classrooms to 9:1 in elementary grades, ensuring personalized attention while maintaining effective classroom dynamics.
How does Daycroft incorporate cultural diversity?
Our student body represents diverse ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, creating a global learning environment where children develop cross-cultural understanding and international awareness.
What enrichment opportunities are available?
We offer co-curricular courses, summer camps, and after-school activities that expand learning through arts, sciences, and physical development programs aligned with Montessori educational principles.
