The Crescent Difference
There’s no magic behind The Crescent Difference. It is developed through intentional, thoughtful, and thorough implementation of the Montessori Method, and deep understanding of the science of child development.
We are a Whole School for the Whole Child
The process of lifelong learning is an exciting journey. Crescent curriculum is designed to support the developmental characteristics and needs of each child – intellectually, socially, physically, emotionally, and spiritually—along their journey. Our aim is to support children’s capability to build the skills they need to become adults who not only want to contribute to the world around them but who have the passion to do so in exceptional ways. We work to build respectful long-term relationships with parents as partners in the educational path of their children.
We Understand How Children Learn
Children are born with a natural curiosity. They want to know about the world and their part in it. While cultures and technologies change over time, the milestones of human development remain constant. Montessori education is aligned with children’s developmental stages, maximizing their learning potential at each level. This natural approach supports their curiosity with the rewards of the joy of discovery.
We Allow Uninterrupted Time for Learning
The school day at Crescent is organized into blocks of uninterrupted time. This schedule, by design, supports a natural level of concentration and allows children to progress through the school day at their own pace. Children experience learning as knowledge that becomes understanding and moves toward application in the real world. The gift of time enables this important process to unfold. The opportunity to engage in meaningful, interesting self-chosen activity keeps the joy for learning alive and motivates children to want to learn more.
We Create Active Child Centered Learning Environments
Everyone knows children were designed to move. Active learning in our intentionally designed classrooms provides young children with opportunities for choice about where to work, who they work with, and how to structure the work of the school day. Hands on activities develop and refine physical skills supporting not only intellectual competence but human capability.
We Foster Independence
From the youngest in our classroom communities to the oldest, our staff guides each child in their quest for independence. Children are trusted with real responsibilities through meaningful tasks each and every day. In this way, as contributing members of the school community, their confidence in themselves and connection to others is intertwined.
We Create a Community of Eager Learners
We encourage our students to develop their unique talents and to teach them to others. Because children of different ages learn naturally and enthusiastically from one another, Montessori schools are built around a child’s developmental levels instead of single age groups. The three-year multi age classroom community benefits students through peer learning and peer teaching. Our collaborative social climate provides countless life-lessons in an atmosphere of support that appropriately enhances the social emotional development at each developmental level.
Every Crescent student is…
Of Service
Academically Prepared
Capable of Autonomy and Collaboration
Competent and Confident in their Skills
Capable of Intrinsic Motivation
Able to Internalize Ground Rules
Capable of Social Responsibilities
Creative and has the Gift of Personal Expression
A Kind Model of All These Traits for their Family and Community
What People Are Saying
“I loved Crescent Montessori because I had the freedom to be creative while learning. Crescent allowed me to choose what I wanted to do and helped nurture my curiosity. My teachers were kind and dedicated, and were supportive of every decision I made which encouraged me to keep on doing my best and learn with eagerness and joy. Aside from learning fundamental material, my teachers also taught me valuable life lessons and morals. My memories from Crescent will always be ones I remember and cherish..”
— Alegria Silvi, Crescent Alumna
"Discovering Crescent Montessori for my children was a blessing. Both of them were able to thrive in an environment where they had more decision-making in their learning. The combination of structure and flexibility was a perfect fit. I remember vividly the day that reading clicked for my first grader. He was so excited to tell me when I arrived at pick up that he read an entire Magic Tree House book. I can't imagine another school that would allow a child to absorb that opportunity! Both of my children are now in college and they often mention their time at Crescent with joy and fondness."
— Susie Gallo, former Crescent parent and Executive Director of the Sonoma Mentoring Alliance
As a parent of two spirited boys who attended Crescent Montessori, I can attest to the phenomenal growth I witnessed in their ability to concentrate, to make choices…The school and the teacher take great pains to prepare an environment so rich in developmentally appropriate, hands-on materials that each child's innate curiosity can always be satisfied with just the right level of challenge and novelty. This freedom within limits fosters a true love of learning and meets every child where they are. There's no better school in Sonoma Valley!
— Casey Richter, Former Crescent Parent and Educator
When I look back on my time at Crescent, I remember a chapter in my life in which I first flourished. I was encouraged by my parents and teachers to embrace my curious nature and imagination. Whether I was studying the local forests, designing irrigated gardens, building extensive sand castles, doing chemistry experiments or learning about the universe, Crescent supported my endeavors and passions. Now that I'm in college, I continue to be curious and imaginative, expanding upon the seed which initially sprouted during my early childhood and grew during my Crescent years.”
— Joseph Silvi, Crescent Alumnus, UC Berkeley ‘24
"I love how Cresent allowed me to explore learning with more freedom. It made education feel like an opportunity and that mindset continues to motivate me today."
— Mary Gallo, Crescent Alumna, UCLA ‘24, Biology Major
“I have fond memories of my years at Crescent. The curriculum offered different experiences that set a foundation for how I learn today. The small class size, different activities and projects were unique and fun.”