Sunrise Montessori School was started in the home of Mary Ellen Marion in 1979.
The first year there were eight children in the class and fifteen on a waiting list.
A search was made for a church with space available to rent to our school.
Larkspur Christian Church on 33rd Avenue north of Cactus. Their Fellowship Hall was used for our school from September 1980 through June 1988.
In 1981, one of the first Montessori toddler programs in the valley was added. Mary Ellen and Ray Marion are the owners.
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Montessori School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
- Enrollment: 40 students
- Yearly Tuition: $6,250
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
Year Founded
1979
Summer School Offered
Yes
First Day of School
Fri. Aug 1, 2025
School Motto
Our aim is not merely to make the child understand, and still less to force him to memorize, but so to touch his imagination as to enthuse him to his inmost core.
Student Body
Total Students
40 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
20%
State avg.: 38%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
3 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
13:1
National avg.: 13:1
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Yearly tuition can be paid in 10 installments.
Application URL
School Notes
- Sunrise Montessori School offers a Montessori education according to the principals of Dr. Maria Montessori. It is an education of the total child, encompassing the social, emotional, intellectual, and physical growth of each child. We nurture and promote an atmosphere that develops self-motivation, responsibility, and self-control in the child. Each child is offered individual instruction, according to his/her ability level.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Sunrise Montessori School South cost?
Sunrise Montessori School South's tuition is approximately $6,250 for private students.
When is the application deadline for Sunrise Montessori School South?
The application deadline for Sunrise Montessori School South is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Sunrise Montessori School South located?
Sunrise Montessori School South is located in the North Mountain Village neighborhood of Glendale, AZ. There are 1 other private schools located in North Mountain Village.
School Reviews
Endorse Sunrise Montessori School South. 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

Podcasts That Will Change the Way You Think About Education
This article highlights a curated selection of podcasts that offer thought-provoking discussions, expert insights, and innovative ideas on various aspects of education. From exploring new teaching methods and technologies to discussing policy changes and social issues, these podcasts provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for anyone interested in education. Each podcast is briefly described, highlighting its unique focus and tone.

For-profit vs. Not-for-profit Schools
This comprehensive guide explores the differences between for-profit and not-for-profit private schools, discussing their organizational structures, advantages, and key considerations for parents. It emphasizes that a school's success is determined by its educational quality and management rather than its profit status.

2023-24 Best SSAT Prep Courses Reviewed
This article reviews the top SSAT prep courses, including Test Innovators, Enrollment Management Association (EMA), Princeton Review, Ivy Global, and Kaplan. Each course is evaluated based on its price, in-person and online services, officially licensed materials, instant normative scoring, and free trial options. We'll dive into the features and benefits of each course, helping you understand which one best fits your student's needs and learning style.