First School

At First School we have developed an environment where your child is an independent learner utilizing the first years of life when vital learning occurs at it's best and fullest.
Reading is the key to independent learning; therefore, we have developed a program that guides your child through steps enabling him/her to become an early reader.
Children who learn to read before elementary school are better learners reading at their own individual pace.
Here at First School we provide your child with that opportunity.
Our curriculum has a Montessori basis, which utilizes hands-on activities and equipment.
The language program we use is phonetic as well as visual because some children learn best auditorially while others do visually.
We have incorporated a computer program and a four-station light-tracing table to reinforce the hands-on activities.
Your child learns language, math, science, art, music, and fine and large motor skills while developing important social and self-help skills.
First School is accredited by the National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs.
First School is registered with the Illinois Department of Education and the International Montessori Council has deemed First School with Program Recognition status.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • School Type: Alternative School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
  • Enrollment: 165 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten

Student Body

Total Students
165 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Students by Grade
First School Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
29 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling

School Notes

  • At First School we have developed an environment where your child is an independent learner utilizing the first years of life when vital learning occurs at it's best and fullest. Reading is the key to independent learning; therefore, we have developed a program that guides your child through steps enabling him/her to become an early reader. Children who learn to read before elementary school are better learners reading at their own individual pace. Here at First School we provide your child with that opportunity. Our curriculum has a Montessori basis, which utilizes hands-on activities and equipment. The language program we use is phonetic as well as visual because some children learn best auditorially while others do visually. We have incorporated a computer program and a four-station light-tracing table to reinforce the hands-on activities. Your child learns language, math, science, art, music, and fine and large motor skills while developing important social and self-help skills. First School is accredited by the National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs. First School is registered with the Illinois Department of Education and the International Montessori Council has deemed First School with Program Recognition status.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the application deadline for First School?
The application deadline for First School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

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Quick Stats (2024)

  • School Type: Alternative School
  • Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
  • Enrollment: 165 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Champaign County, IL is $9,653 for elementary schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).

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