The Montessori Schools (TMS) opened their first campus in Flatiron in 2001 with the goal of providing high‑quality Montessori education in a warm, community‑focused setting. The program expanded to a second campus in SoHo in 2010. Both campuses are designed with natural materials and child‑sized furnishings to invite independent exploration. TMS serves families seeking an early‑childhood program rooted in Montessori philosophy while offering modern amenities.
TMS operates two core programs across both campuses:
* Toddler (18 months–3 years) – The toddler program nurtures independence and creativity. Mixed‑age classes encourage children to learn from one another while developing coordination and language skills. Teachers act as guides, introducing Montessori materials for practical life, sensorial exploration and early math and language.
* Primary (3–6 years) – Children progress through language, mathematics, practical life and cultural studies at their own pace. Freedom within limits helps them build concentration and self‑discipline. Parents may choose half‑day (8:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.) or full‑day (8:30 a.m.–3 p.m.) options. A bilingual Spanish option is available via lottery.
TMS also offers a January start for toddlers and limited preschoolers with reduced tuition.
Tuition is set annually. For 2025‑26, the Toddler Half‑Day program costs \$34,650 and the Toddler Full‑Day costs \$42,787.50. Primary Full‑Day tuition is also \$42,787.50. There is an annual \$2,625 materials and snacks fee. The January start option costs \$23,730 (half day) or \$32,508 (full day) with monthly reductions.
TMS has two Manhattan campuses:
Both campuses provide a kitchen for preparing snacks and maintain an on‑site garden for children to learn about plants and sustainability.
The schools are led by Head of School Nick Combemale, who has served as an educator and administrator in international schools. Admissions are overseen by Esther Lee (Director of Enrollment) and Alex Shworak (Admissions Associate). Teachers hold Montessori credentials and participate in regular professional development. Parent volunteers support classroom activities and host community events.
TMS aims to build the intellectual, emotional and physical foundation for children to become self‑directed learners, flexible thinkers and creative problem solvers. The schools emphasise a close partnership with families, offering parent education workshops and opportunities for classroom observation. The curriculum balances freedom and responsibility, and bilingual Spanish classes introduce children to another language and culture.
Overall aggregate rating: Not publicly published. PrivateSchoolReview provides quick stats—198 students, 23 teachers and tuition around \$42,788—but does not include a star rating. Yelp and other review sites require verification. Families often report that teachers are warm and dedicated and that the community is supportive. Without sufficient public data, an aggregate rating cannot be calculated.
Admissions operate on a rolling basis with priority given to siblings and alumni families. Parents submit an online inquiry, attend an open house or virtual information session and schedule a classroom observation. The school emphasises the three‑year cycle for primary students. Financial aid is available for qualifying families.
While TMS follows classical Montessori methods, it does not list formal AMS or AMI accreditation. It is a member of regional independent school associations and upholds Montessori standards in classroom materials and practices.
URL | accessed 2025‑07‑25
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TMS mission & philosophy | 2025‑07‑25
TMS program description | 2025‑07‑25
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