Public School Uncertainty Means Parents Considering Alternatives  

The summer is a time for enjoying sunshine, family vacations and spending extra time with our children at home. Summer is also a time when many families may are researching educational options for the upcoming school year. We often speak with parents who are using the summer break to reconsider the educational path for their child.

There are so many questions – Are my child’s needs being met right now?  What other options are available?  Can we afford a private education?

In Ontario, there is growing interest in alternatives to public education due to recent job action from local school boards. With mounting pressure from a looming strike, many parents are seeking not only stability, but a guarantee of quality education and individualized instruction for their child.

If you have found yourself re-evaluating options for the upcoming academic year, the following comparison may be helpful as you work through questions and concerns.

 

	Kendalwood Montessori	Public School
Class Composition	Classrooms enjoy 3 year mixed age groups. Students are placed based on level of readiness.	Students are placed based on date of birth.
Teacher to Student Ratio	1:15 max for Casa and up. Each classroom has a qualified & experienced Montessori teacher and a dedicated assistant.	Full day kindergarten classrooms are not subject to a hard cap on class size.
Curriculum	Individually developed for each student based on their individual progression.	Mandated set curriculum that does not allow for variation.
Learning Materials	Students learn through a wide variety of resources and experiences both in and outside of the classroom. Peer mentoring and 1×1 learning is frequent and common.	Rooted in lecture style and textbook lessons.
Student assessment	On-going throughout the year.Teachers constantly observe and assess students and share with parents. Open and on-going dialogue.	Set to Government mandated requirements. Primarily test based.
French Language	Introduced at the toddler age and provided on a daily basis.	Introduced at grade 4 – once/twice a week
Extracurricular	Lunch and afterschool programs are included in cost of tuition,  offered to families at NO additional cost	Extracurricular may be inconsistent (based on individual school administration), programs are often canceled year to year

 

Interested in learning more about Kendalwood? Drop in or book a tour to see us in action! We are located in Whitby, Ontario in the heart of Durham Region.

 

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Kendalwood Montessori & Elementary School is Durham Region’s first fully accredited Montessori school. At Kendalwood, we believe that our job is to inspire children to become the best students they can be. With a curriculum that focuses on developing the intellect as well as nurturing self-esteem, academics are taught, curiosity is cultivated and respect is fostered. Our approach creates an environment where students flourish and develop a lifelong love of learning.