Tempe Montessori School, founded in 1978 and is a family-owned institution rooted in the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) tradition, dedicated to nurturing the whole child-academically, socially, and emotionally-from infancy through junior high school.
Tempe Montessori School. Located on the TempeMesa border, the school's setting comprises renovated homes that evoke a warm, home-like atmosphere, surrounded by vibrant gardens, a tranquil koi pond, and a barnyard populated by goats, chickens, creating immersive, nature-rich learning environments.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- School Type: Montessori School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 133 students
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Average class size: 26 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
Year Founded
1978
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
Last Day of School
Fri. May 22, 2026
Student Body
Total Students
133 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
36%
State avg.: 38%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
7 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
19:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
52%
Average Class Size
26 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Non fantasy or character clothing
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
Tuition varies according to age and schedule for a five-day program.
Summer Program Cost Notes
Tuition varies according to age and schedule.
% on Financial Aid
15%
Acceptance Rate
90%
National avg.: 81%
College Acceptance Rate
100%
Admissions Director
Lauren Bolar
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
4 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
3 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Recreational Athletic Programs:
GymnasticsMusic and movement
Soccertots
School Notes
- School Motto: “The hands are the instruments of man’s intelligence.” — Dr. Maria Montessori
- Tempe Montessori school was established in 1978 by Irma Letson, the school carries a legacy of over four decades in providing authentic Montessori education. Tempe Montessori School is recognized and accredited by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), with programming spanning from infancy to middle school. Their mission is to deliver high-quality AMI Montessori education that nurtures each child's development, and to support parents in their educational goals-guided by the sensitive and respectful principles of Maria Montessori.
- Tempe Montessori School Emphasis is on whole-child education-academically, socially, emotionally-encouraging independence, responsibility, and a lifelong love of learning.Our programs offered serves children from 12 weeks (approximately 3 months) up to 7th grade (around age 13).Students are guided by AMI-certified educators committed to professional development and fostering supportive, individualized learning environments.
- Tempe Montessori School Campus & Learning Environment Situated on the TempeMesa border, just two blocks from Loop 101, the campus occupies renovated homes designed to feel like home environments. Tempe Montessori School The large property includes outdoor classrooms, gardens (growing citrus, apples, vine fruits, vegetables), and a barnyard featuring goats, chickens, and a koi pond-making it a hands-on, immersive environment. We are a family-owned and operated school led by Lauren Bolar, granddaughter of the founder. She holds AMI credentials in Infant/Toddler, Primary, and Montessori Administration, and brings hands-on leadership with a background as a former student. Tempe Montessori School The school is AZDHS-certified, tuition-based, and accepts state funding options like DES, ESA, STO, plus offers scholarships.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate of Tempe Montessori School Ltd?
The acceptance rate of Tempe Montessori School Ltd is 90%, which is higher than the national average of 87%.
What sports does Tempe Montessori School Ltd offer?
Tempe Montessori School Ltd offers 4 interscholastic sports: Ballet, Dance, Martial Arts and Soccer.
When is the application deadline for Tempe Montessori School Ltd?
The application deadline for Tempe Montessori School Ltd is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
Endorse Tempe Montessori School Ltd. 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

Transferring from Public to Private School Mid-Year: What to Expect
Considering a mid-year transfer from public to private school? Learn what to expect with admissions, academic placement, social adjustment, and financial aid to ensure a smooth transition.

A Guide to Day vs. Boarding School: Which Is Right for Your Family
Discover the key differences between day and boarding schools to determine the best fit for your child. Explore benefits, costs, lifestyle factors, and questions to help guide your family’s decision.

The A to Z of Private Schools 2025
Explore the A to Z of private schools in 2025—from admissions to tuition—offering parents and educators clear insights into today’s options.