West Side Montessori School (WSMS) is an early childhood, independent Montessori school enrolling approximately 200 students, ages 2.10 through 6 (pre-K through kindergarten).
We are a school that awakens children's imaginations to the limitless possibilities in life.
We are a warm, welcoming community in which children and adults find friendships and support, where adults and children are encouraged to ask questions and broaden their understandings of themselves, others and the world around them.
We are committed to maintaining our position as a model urban early childhood program.
We are also committed to being a school that helps prepare future teachers through our on-site weekend Montessori teacher preparation program (our WSMS-TEP) and our vigorous student teaching program.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked NY School
- School Type: Montessori School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
- Enrollment: 184 students
- Yearly Tuition: $45,000
- Acceptance rate: 20%
- Average class size: 21 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
West Side Montessori School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
Year Founded
1970
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
First Day of School
Fri. Aug 15, 2025
Student Body
Total Students
184 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
21%
State avg.: 40%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
8 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
23:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
21 students
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$45,000
Acceptance Rate
20%
National avg.: 81%
Application URL
School Notes
- School Motto: To think, not to be thought.
- West Side Montessori School (WSMS) is an early childhood, independent Montessori school enrolling approximately 200 students, ages 2.10 through 6 (pre-K through kindergarten).
- We are a school that awakens children's imaginations to the limitless possibilities in life.
- We are a warm, welcoming community in which children and adults find friendships and support, where adults and children are encouraged to ask questions and broaden their understandings of themselves, others and the world around them.
- We are committed to maintaining our position as a model urban early childhood program.
- We are also committed to being a school that helps prepare future teachers through our on-site weekend Montessori teacher preparation program (our WSMS-TEP) and our vigorous student teaching program.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does West Side Montessori School cost?
West Side Montessori School's tuition is approximately $45,000 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of West Side Montessori School?
The acceptance rate of West Side Montessori School is 20%, which is lower than the national average of 74%. West Side Montessori School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in New York with low acceptance rates.
What is West Side Montessori School's ranking?
West Side Montessori School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for: Lowest average acceptance rates.
When is the application deadline for West Side Montessori School?
The application deadline for West Side Montessori School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
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