Business Details
44 Years
experience
Greenhouse Montessori School in Visalia, CA
Founded in 1982 by Anne Hoffman and Nina Clancy, Greenhouse Montessori School has dedicated over four decades to delivering high-quality Montessori education in Tulare County. Our philosophy centers on the Montessori method, which fosters independence, problem-solving, and a lifelong love of learning through hands-on, child-led exploration. We provide structured programs for children aged 2.5 to kindergarten, combining academic rigor with social-emotional development in a nurturing, non-institutional environment. Our certified Montessori teachers and assistants guide students through practical life exercises, sensorial materials, language, mathematics, and cultural studies. Extended care options and full-day programs accommodate diverse family needs while maintaining a focus on individualized learning.We emphasize respect for others, self-care, and environmental stewardship, preparing children for future academic and personal success. Our curriculum aligns with Maria Montessori's principles, including the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, and the prepared environment. We maintain strict adherence to California immunization requirements and developmental readiness criteria for enrollment. With a twelve-month schedule, including summer programs, we offer consistent, year-round educational support. Our team remains committed to transparency, parental collaboration, and creating a joyful, peaceful learning atmosphere that honors each child's unique potential.
Services
Morning Preschool Program
Afternoon Preschool Program
Full Day Program
Kindergarten Program
Summer Program
Extended Child Care
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- Established in 1982 with continuous Montessori expertise
- Certified Montessori teachers guide each classroom
- Curriculum based on Maria Montessori's proven educational philosophy
- Extended care available from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Twelve-month academic calendar with summer programming
Services
Morning Montessori Preschool Program
Structured morning sessions from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM focusing on independence and foundational learning. Children engage with Montessori materials that develop practical life skills, sensory awareness, and early academic concepts. The curriculum includes language development, mathematical thinking, cultural studies, and outdoor play in a prepared environment that supports natural learning rhythms.
Full Day Preschool Program
Comprehensive care from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM combining Montessori instruction with supervised activities. Includes morning and afternoon academic sessions, lunch period with outdoor play, and quiet rest time. Provides structured learning alongside flexible recreational time with puzzles, books, and creative play to accommodate working families' schedules.
Montessori Kindergarten Program
Specialized curriculum for kindergarten-age children continuing Montessori education. Emphasizes advanced language development, complex mathematical concepts, and independent project work. Available in half-day or full-day formats, this program builds on preschool foundations while preparing students for traditional elementary school environments through individualized learning paths.
Summer Program
Twelve-month educational continuity with July-August programming for enrolled and new students. Maintains Montessori principles through summer-specific activities while reinforcing academic skills. Separate registration process ensures space availability for both returning families and new participants seeking structured summer learning experiences.
Extended Child Care
Flexible care options from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Provides quiet activities before school and recreational play after classes. Designed to complement Montessori programs with unstructured social time while maintaining a peaceful environment aligned with educational principles through puzzles, books, and creative materials.
People
Anne Hoffman
Director
Co-founder with over 40 years of Montessori experience. Committed to creating nurturing educational environments that respect children's natural development patterns. Continuously implements Maria Montessori's principles in curriculum design and classroom management.
Nina Clancy
Director
Co-founder dedicated to Montessori education since 1982. Focuses on maintaining authentic Montessori practices while adapting to modern educational needs. Works closely with families to ensure smooth transitions and developmental readiness for all enrolled children.
Questions
What ages do you accept?
We enroll children aged 2.5 through kindergarten age, with programs specifically designed for different developmental stages.
Is toilet training required for enrollment?
Yes, children must be independently toilet trained before starting our program to ensure successful classroom participation.
What are your operating hours?
Our standard programs run from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM (morning) and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM (afternoon), with extended care available from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Do you follow the public school calendar?
We operate year-round with a ten-month school year September-June and separate summer programming, closing only for national holidays and scheduled breaks.
What immunizations are required?
California state requirements include polio, DTP/DTap/DT, hepatitis B, varicella, MMR, and Hib vaccines with documentation from a licensed physician.
How do you handle parent observations?
We require parent observations before enrollment to ensure program compatibility, followed by a director meeting and classroom introduction before the child's first day.