FAQs
How long has the school been in existence?
The Ocean State Montessori School (OSMS) was founded in 1973 by a group of parents interested in providing a Montessori education for their children. What started as a one-room school for preschool-aged children has evolved over the years to include Montessori programs for children ages three to fourteen, as well as after-school programs and vacation and summer camps. For more information read About Us.
What type of parent involvement is there?
Our school is a parent-cooperative and each family is required to volunteer 10 hours per school year. There are many different volunteer opportunities including serving on a school committee; subbing in the classroom; helping with grounds, maintenance, technology, or office work; chaperoning field trips; and helping with special school activities (Grandparents’ Day, Book Fairs, May Day, etc.). For more information read about The Parent Community.
Is the school a non-profit?
Yes, the school is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) corporation.
Is the school licensed?
The OSMS is licensed by both the Rhode Island Department of Education and the Department of Children, Youth and Families.
What qualifications do your teachers have?
Our Montessori teachers possess a Bachelor’s degree or higher in education or a related field. In addition, they have received their American Montessori Society (AMS) certification for the level at which they are teaching. Occasionally we will hire a teacher who will teach while attending a Montessori teacher education program. Successful completion of the program is required for continued employment. For more information, read the Faculty and Staff page.
Do you offer year-round care?
The OSMS follows a typical school-year calendar. However, we do offer vacation camps for our February and April vacations, as well as an eight-week summer camp program. For more information see the Vacation/Summer Camps page.
How many students do you have? What is the teacher to student ratio?
Please see the About Us page for information on current enrollment level. We have:
- Three Primary classrooms (ages 3 to 6). Each primary classroom has 20 students with a Head Teacher and Teacher Assistant
- One Lower Elementary classroom (ages 6 to 9) with a Head Teacher and Teacher Assistant. Average class size is 20-22 students.
- One Upper Elementary classroom (ages 9-11) with a Head Teacher and Teacher Assistant. Average class size is 16-22 students.
- One Middle School classroom (ages 11-14) with a Head Teacher. Average class size is 8-15 students.
Does my child need to have been in a Montessori program to transfer to the Elementary or Middle School program?
We accept students without previous experience in a Montessori classroom. Typically students who are able to adapt more readily to the independent learning style have an easier transition.
Do you offer music, art, or any other special classes?
Music: Music is incorporated into the daily curriculum of our Primary students through songs at circle time and through the study of the composer of the month. Our Music Teacher also provides music instruction to all our students, Primary through Middle. Recorders and xylophones are introduced in Elementary, and guitar in Middle.
Art: Art is also incorporated into the daily curriculum of our Primary students through practical life activities and the study of the artist of the month. Our Art Teacher provides formal art classes for Elementary and Middle School students where they explore a variety of media.
Spanish: Spanish is introduced in first grade and continues through Middle School.
Physical Education: Physical Education is incorporated into the Primary students' curriculum through outdoor play as well as movement activities within the classroom. Elementary and Middle School students have a more formal physical education curriculum. Middle School students also enjoy a martial arts class once a week.
Do you have an outdoor play area?
Yes, we have an enclosed yard with a play structure and room to run and play. [link] to a picture
Do you have an Open House? When can I visit?
We hold our annual Open House in November. The Open House provides parents with an opportunity to tour the school, visit in the classroom, meet the staff, and talk with parents of currently enrolled students. Parents and children are welcome to attend.
We schedule school tours and observations on an individual basis. Please call the office to schedule a time to visit (401) 434-6913. Parents wishing to spend time observing in our classrooms should visit without their children. See the Contact Us page.
What is the application process?
You may submit your application for the next school year at any time; all applicants are put on a "waiting list" until January when we begin the acceptance process. We typically accept students based on a first-come, first-served basis, with some exceptions. Preference is given for siblings of current and past students, as well as for students transferring from other Montessori schools. We also try to maintain a balance of boys and girls and age groups within each class.
Notification of acceptance is sent beginning in January with enrollment deposits typically due within two weeks of notification. The enrollment deposit secures a spot for your child. We continue to accept from the waiting list until all classrooms are full. For more information see the Admissions page.
Does my child need to visit?
Accepted three- and four-year old students are scheduled for visits in April.
Students applying for Kindergarten and up may be required to visit with a teacher prior to acceptance. See the Admissions page.
Do you accept students from any state/town?
Yes, our students come from many communities throughout Rhode Island as well as nearby Massachusetts and Connecticut.
Can my child ride the bus to school?
Some of our students do ride the bus to school. Please contact the transportation department of your local public school district. Busing is not arranged by the school.
How much does it cost for tuition?
Please see read our Tuition and Costs page.
Where are you?
Ocean State Montessori School is located on Grove Avenue in East Providence between Route 195, Route 44, and Broadway. For details see the Map & Directions page.