Business Details
44 Years
experience
Trusted Montessori Education for Children Ages 2 Months to 14 Years in Mesa
Montessori International School has been nurturing children's academic and personal growth in Mesa, Arizona for 40 years. Founded in 1982 by educator Therese Kestner, our institution has expanded from a single primary classroom to three campuses serving infants through 14-year-olds. Our AMI-certified programs follow Dr. Maria Montessori's principles, creating environments where children develop independence through exploration.With 20 educators boasting 250 combined years of experience, we maintain Arizona State Health Department licensing while preserving our founder's vision of fostering curiosity and preparing students to contribute meaningfully to society. Our toddler, primary, and elementary programs emphasize individualized learning, supported by ongoing teacher education and state-credentialed staff.
Services
Infant Program
Toddler Program
Primary Education
Elementary School
Parent Resources
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- 40 years of AMI-certified Montessori education in Mesa
- 20 educators with 250 combined years of experience
- Proven Montessori method emphasizing self-directed learning
- State-licensed programs for infants through upper elementary
- Founder-led continuity with 50 years of Montessori expertise
Associations and certifications
- Association Montessori International (AMI)
- Arizona State Health Department
Services
Infant Program
Our infant community provides nurturing care for babies aged 2 months to 18 months. Certified caregivers create stimulating environments that encourage sensory development and early motor skills. Parents benefit from structured routines and regular communication about their child's progress.
Toddler Program
Designed for 18-36 month-olds, this program fosters independence through practical life activities. Toddler classrooms feature child-sized materials and structured routines that develop coordination, language, and social skills in a supportive environment.
Primary Education
Three to six-year-olds engage in self-directed learning with specialized Montessori materials. Our primary program develops reading, math, and cultural awareness through hands-on exploration, cultivating concentration and intrinsic motivation in mixed-age classrooms.
Elementary School
Grades 1-6 curriculum follows Montessori principles while meeting Arizona state standards. Students explore interdisciplinary projects, developing critical thinking and research skills through individualized learning plans guided by state-certified teachers.
Parent Resources
We provide comprehensive resources including classroom observations, educational workshops, and personalized guidance for families. Our parent-teacher conferences and community events foster collaboration between home and school environments.
People
Therese Kestner
Founder & Director
B.A., M.Ed, AMI certified educator with 50 years of Montessori experience. Founded MIS in 1982 after establishing successful programs in multiple states. Specializes in learning disabilities and child development.
Questions
What ages does Montessori International School serve?
We serve children from infants (2 months) through 14 years old across our three Mesa campuses.
Is MIS accredited by recognized Montessori organizations?
Our infant, toddler, and primary programs are affiliated with Association Montessori International (AMI), founded by Dr. Maria Montessori.
How does MIS support student transitions between programs?
We offer classroom observations and trial periods for elementary placements, with collaborative decision-making between parents and teachers.
What teacher qualifications does MIS require?
Our Montessori teachers complete AMI training, while elementary staff hold Arizona state teaching credentials with ongoing professional development.
What makes MIS different from traditional schools?
Our Montessori approach emphasizes self-directed learning, mixed-age classrooms, and specially designed materials that follow Dr. Montessori's scientific method.
