Stepping Stones Montessori was established in 1983 by a group of dedicated parents.
It continues today with a Parent Board and functions as a non-profit.
Our programs currently serve children from the age of 3 to 15 years of age.
Stepping Stones Montessori is a member of the American Montessori Society.
Many of our faculty are active members of the North American Montessori Teacher's Association (NAMTA), the American Montessori Society (AMS) and Association Montessori Internationale (AMI).
Stepping Stones Montessori School nurtures global citizens and guides each child to realize their unique potential.
We are not a typical school. We aim to sustain an environment that enables each child to thrive as a life-long learner who is self-directed and responsible; self-confident and respectful; and self-aware and globally-conscious.
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Montessori School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-7
- Enrollment: 153 students
- Yearly Tuition: $20,970
- Average class size: 20 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-7
Year Founded
1983
School Calendar
First Day of School
Mon. Sep 1, 2025
School Motto
Education for Life
Student Body
Total Students
153 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
22%
State avg.: 18%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
9 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
17:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
20 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Students dress for the weather and to be comfortable working all over the classroom.
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$20,970
Admissions Director
Sarah Danielski
Application URL
School Notes
- Stepping Stones Montessori was established in 1983 by a group of dedicated parents. It continues today with a Parent Board and functions as a non-profit. Our programs currently serve children from the age of 12 weeks to 15 years of age. Stepping Stones Montessori is a member of the American Montessori Society. Many of our faculty are active members of the North American Montessori Teacher's Association (NAMTA). Stepping Stones Montessori School's Mission: Engage each child's passion for learning through the Montessori philosophy of education. Sustain an environment that enables each child to thrive as a life-long learner who is:
- Self-directed and responsible
- Self-confident and respectful
- Self-aware and globally-conscious
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Stepping Stones Montessori School cost?
Stepping Stones Montessori School's tuition is approximately $20,970 for private students.
When is the application deadline for Stepping Stones Montessori School?
The application deadline for Stepping Stones Montessori School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Stepping Stones Montessori School located?
Stepping Stones Montessori School is located in the Highland Park neighborhood of Grand Rapids, MI. There are 1 other private schools located in Highland Park.
School Reviews
5 12/12/2024
Our son attended this school for 8 wonderful years. All of their head guides are properly Montessori trained, which does not happen in all schools. And their staff are so loving and respectful to the children and real partners to the parents. The overall community is great. And their middle school program is on a beautiful farm! Our son transitioned well to a public high school and is now in the honors college of a university. We love Stepping Stones Montessori School!
5 11/19/2018
SSMS has been a fantastic choice for my daughter, I couldn't be happier. Love the Montessori way, (which I was new to), it's so effective I have begun incorporating their methods into my parenting with wonderful results. The staff is so caring and knowledgable regarding; teaching, development and growing children through play and study. Never been so happy about a decision for my daughter...
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