At Cottonwood School how children learn is as important as what children learn.
We partner with parents who believe that the early years are the most important in the whole of a lifetime.
Together we cultivate each child's talent and character by nurturing their social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development.
Our quality programs unleash the potential of every child and develop a foundation for academic achievement and life long success.
The Cottonwood School was founded in 1995 by parents and teachers who sought to improve educational opportunities for New Mexico's children through an independent, non-sectarian school which provided dynamic academics through fully integrated subject areas. Cottonwood School is a joyful learning community whose vision is to help our students reach their full potential.Our mission is to encourage the potential of each child through an interdisciplinary curriculum which cultivates intellectual achievement, physical and artistic abilities, emotional learning and creative reasoning in accordance with Montessori philosophy.
Cottonwood School is a non-profit, 501(c) 3 tax exempt, educational organization which serves and educates children 2 years to 12 years of age, or toddlers through sixth grade.
Quick Stats (2023-24)
- School Type: Montessori School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-6
- Enrollment: 163 students
- Yearly Tuition: $13,000
- Average class size: 24 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-6
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Onsite Dyslexia Therapist and Reading Tutor
Year Founded
1995
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
163 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
16 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
10:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
50%
Average Class Size
24 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Play clothes, closed toe shoes
Play clothes, closed toe shoes
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$13,000
Tuition Notes
Discounts available for siblings and single payments. Monthly payments made through ACH bank draft.
Summer Program Cost
$200
Summer Program Cost Notes
Summer programs run June through August in weekly thematic units costing $200-$250 depending on the half or full day enrollment. Open 7AM-6PM for before and after childcare.
Admissions Director
Trish Nickerson
Admissions Associate
Kate Nichols
School Notes
- The purpose of Cottonwood School is to- 1. Encourage a. responsibility of oneself, for others and for the environment. b. joyful, self-directed learning c. interdependence with all living creatures 2. Provide a. a safe, respectful, nurturing community b. experiential learning in a multi-age setting c. opportunities for discovery 3. Develop a. self-sufficient, independent thinkers b. an appreciation for art and culture c. enthusiastic life-long learners
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Cottonwood Montessori School cost?
Cottonwood Montessori School's tuition is approximately $13,000 for private students and $200 for summer students.
Does Cottonwood Montessori School offer a summer program?
Yes, Cottonwood Montessori School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
When is the application deadline for Cottonwood Montessori School?
The application deadline for Cottonwood Montessori School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
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