Creative Montessori School is located on a two-acre campus in the heart of Homewood within walking distance to Homewood Park and the public library.
Convenient to both downtown Birmingham and over-the-mountain suburbs, CMS offers its students an unparalleled private school education in a warm and loving atmosphere where the focus is on the individual child.
Always ahead of its time, CMS has been nurturing confident and enthusiastic learners since 1968, when visionary educator Barbara R. Spitzer opened our school with 18 students in a church basement. At that time, CMS became the first Montessori school in the Birmingham area; the first private school in the area to be purposely racially integrated from inception; and the first area school to offer science, world geography, and foreign language to preschoolers.
Today, CMS enrolls 225 students at the toddler, preschool, and elementary levels (18 months through 6th grade) from 21 different zip codes.
A Montessori education helps each child develop his or her fullest potential and cultivates a life-long love of learning.
For more information on Creative Montessori School, visit cmskids.org.
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Montessori School
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-8
- Enrollment: 252 students
- 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 Nursery/Preschool-8
Year Founded
1968
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
Campus Size
2
Student Body
Total Students
252 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
27%
State avg.: 24%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
34 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
24 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
Tuition varies by program level. Please visit cmskids.org/admissions for our current tuition rates.
Admissions Director
Nancy Chiodo
Application URL
School Notes
- Creative Montessori School (CMS) is dedicated to providing an authentic Montessori environment for our students. We value each child`s unique potential and nurture our students` inherent ability to meet challenges with divergent thinking skills, self-confidence, adaptability, and resilience.Children at CMS learn all the same things that children in a traditional school will learn - plus practical knowledge such as conflict resolution, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. It is how they learn and how they feel about learning that is quite different and truly valuable.Montessori classrooms are designed to foster intellectual curiosity by facilitating individualized, independent, purposeful work within a warm and peaceful setting. The result is children who fall in love with learning. Students are allowed to learn at their own pace under the caring and thoughtful guidance of a professionally trained Montessori teacher.Founded in 1968, CMS is Birmingham`s first Montessori school; the first local private school to be racially integrated from inception; and the first to offer science, world geography, and foreign language to preschoolers. Today, CMS enrolls students from 21 zip codes, and is located on a 2-acre campus in the heart of Homewood. Our affordable tuition makes exceptional education accessible to families with diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Daniel Hollingshead, Stanford University Philosophy Major -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are famous alumni from Creative Montessori School?
Creative Montessori School famous alumni include: Daniel Hollingshead, Stanford University Philosophy Major.
When is the application deadline for Creative Montessori School?
The application deadline for Creative Montessori School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 6/13/2025
My child started going to CMS at the preschool/primary level and is continuing into his sixth year/third grade next year. We have been so pleased with the warmth of the teachers and have seen such growth in confidence and social aptitude, along with a nurturing of natural curiosity. The kids get lots of outdoor play (structured P.E. and free play), many (including our son) actually enjoy math, and they explore science in engaging, hands-on ways. The reading interventionist is amazing. CMS is such a special place that is welcoming to all beliefs, cultures, and kinds of families. We love the diversity and the community we've found there!
5 6/13/2025
I cannot say enough good things about CMS! It has been a wonderful fit for our son. He's been attending since he was 18 months old and is now 5 years old. The teachers are so knowledgeable, so understanding & calm, and so engaging. The admin is very personable and really makes the school feel like a family. We've loved meeting the other parents through the various school events. Our son genuinely enjoys going to school every day and is constantly learning new life skills and academic skills!
5 8/9/2024
Both of my children attended CMS from pre-school through eighth grade and the experience was truly fantastic. The Montessori method and environment nurtured their innate curiosity and love of learning, which was equally inspiring for both students and parents. As my oldest has transitioned to college and my youngest to high school, I continue to witness the profound impact of a Montessori foundation on their present and future pursuits. CMS not only equipped them academically but also socially and emotionally, preparing them effectively for success as teenagers and young adults.
5 7/12/2024
We currently have three children at CMS, and our experience has been nothing short of spectacular. The teachers and administrators actually care and provide a safe and loving environment for our kids to learn and grow!
5 7/5/2024
We are so pleased with our experience at CMS. My daughter is so pleased with herself when she completes her required lessons. She's has so much pride in herself. The community is strong and the school fosters a strong love of learning and compassion for other students.
Endorse Creative Montessori School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

June 09, 2025
Is It Easier to Land a Private School Job When You're Already Employed?Is it easier to land a private school job when you're already employed? This article breaks down employer biases, networking advantages, and negotiation leverage—plus the latest hiring trends in independent schools. If you’re considering a move, here’s how to maximize your position.

June 09, 2025
How to Secure a Private School Job When You're Unemployed Without the StigmaFinding a private school job while unemployed can be tough, but it doesn't have to hold you back. This article breaks down networking strategies, ways to stand out, and smart approaches to keep your confidence strong. Learn how to turn setbacks into strengths and secure the right opportunity—without the stigma.

June 09, 2025
The Private School Job Hunt: Insider Tips for Employed & Unemployed EducatorsNavigating the private school job market? Whether you're employed or unemployed, the right strategy can make all the difference. This article breaks down essential steps to keep your resume sharp, expand your network, and stay visible in the education community. Learn insider tips to position yourself for success in private schools.