Montessori School of Lake Forest in Lake Forest

Posted: February 18, 2025

As a parent of two daughters attending the Montessori School of Lake Forest, I couldn't be more pleased with our experience. From the moment we joined the community when both were toddlers, we felt welcomed and supported by both the staff and other families. The sense of community here is truly remarkable, fostering a nurturing and collaborative environment for both students and parents.
The Montessori methodology employed at the school has been transformative for my daughters. They have become independent, critical thinkers who love to learn. The hands-on, student-centered approach has allowed them to explore their interests deeply and develop at their own pace. It's incredible to see how confident and self-motivated they have become.
None of this would be possible without the exceptional teachers. They provide personalized attention and guidance to each child, acting not just as educators but also as mentors who genuinely care about the holistic development of their students. The emphasis on respect, responsibility, and community is evident in every aspect of the school's culture. Additionally, the beautiful campus offers ample outdoor learning opportunities, which my daughters thoroughly enjoy.
There are several great schools in the area, but the Montessori School of Lake Forest has exceeded our expectations in every way. My daughters are curious, compassionate, and confident individuals because of the school. We are grateful to be part of such a wonderful community and highly recommend this school to any family seeking a nurturing and enriching educational experience for their children.

Posted: February 18, 2025

Posted: February 17, 2025

Our son and daughter attended MSLF through kindergarten, and weve been incredibly happy a with their experiences! Their classroom teachers were caring, supportive, knowledgeable, and motivating, and most importantly cultivated a love of learning in our children. We especially valued the enrichment opportunities, such as outdoor education, Mandarin, music, and Spanish, which our children had the opportunity to begin at 2 years old (Im not aware of any other school that has these choices at such a young age). MSLF is a truly special school and we feel so fortunate our children had the opportunity to learn and grow in this community!

Posted: February 5, 2025

MSLF has been an incredible, supportive community. The teachers are the core of the school and committed to the education of each child. Each of my 3 children love school and continue to thrive because of their interest in learning and how their curiosities are fostered. I always feel my children are safe, physically and emotionally, and I love how they integrate technology when age-appropriate. I highly recommend visiting the school to see the impeccable facilities and beautiful grounds- there are no other schools like it.

Posted: February 4, 2020

MSLF teachers are the heart & soul of the school. They are incredibly dedicated and passionate about teaching. They prioritize not only academic excellence but social/emotional growth and intelligence.

Posted: February 4, 2020

Kindness, respect and integrity are foundational to the school.

Posted: February 4, 2020

MSLF culture is unlike anything we have experienced at other schools. My children love their school because they are challenged in a safe and nurturing environment.

Posted: February 4, 2020

We love MSLF and highly recommend it to all parents. The school has a nurturing and inclusive culture. Our children are not only academically challenged but are learning to be highly motivated, responsible, and independent. The MSLF outdoor environment is incomparable. Our children have attended other preschools and one also attended public school, but nothing compares to their experiences at MSLF. My only regret is not discovering the school sooner.

Posted: January 17, 2020

Our children complete their work at school & have time to play after a long day of lessons & learning. This creates a wonderful environment at home with time to spend together as a family.

Posted: January 17, 2020

All teachers weve had have been exceptional!

This is personalized education at its best!

Academically, Socially & Emotionally

Posted: January 17, 2020

Every teacher weve had has taken time to discuss social issues in class. I like that building character is a part of the Montessori curriculum to cultivate individuals to have empathy & kindness!

Weve seen this develop strongly in both our children over the years!

Posted: January 17, 2020

Its a warm, open and honest environment. All kids are different and weve seen teachers go above & beyond to help our children reach their highest potential.

Posted: January 17, 2020

Everything about this school is wonderful & I highly recommend it!

Teachers, Families, Staff & Facilities

5 Acres of outdoor space for children to explore & learn. From growing gardens to operating a Herb & Vegetable Stand. Learning to cook muffins & cookies.

My kids run into this school excited to learn!

Posted: November 15, 2019

The Montessori approach to homework is that it's work done in the home, for the family, not school work taken home to be done while at home. That being said, supportive work to help enhance a student's progress may occasionally be sent home, but there is no homework load to be concerned about ESPECIALLY for young students!

Posted: November 15, 2019

There are no words to adequately express the caliber of faculty at this school. Not only are they masters of their craft as Montessori educators, they are some of the kindest people you will ever meet. Many of them have been at this particular Montessori school for OVER 10 years, dedicating themselves to THIS particular school, and it's warm and welcoming culture. They are unmatched!

Posted: November 15, 2019

These fundamental character traits are instilled in EVERY MSLF student, from the youngest Toddlers to those in the Elementary program. The beauty is that it takes very simple rules, and the natural confidence that comes from the Montessori environment allows the children themselves to hold each other accountable to respect for self, respect for each other and respect for the environment. The expectations are articulated clearly from the earliest stages, so that as a child grows, it isn't even a question for them!

Posted: November 15, 2019

Current leadership at the school is focused on what matters most to the MSLF community: strong Montessori ideals, progressive ideas to move the curriculum forward without jeopardizing the fundamentals, and involvement from the community of parents. There is now a strong focus on maintaining the culture of MSLF, which is one of kindness, respect, warmth, involvement and community spirit. It's like no other!

Posted: November 15, 2019

Since Montessori environments allow for each child to pursue interests in their learning, and teachers are their to guide them, learning differences are not glaring "issues" to be dealt with, and children are not singled out because of the need to additional help or support in any one area. Because the teacher guides each child individually, they can adapt learning to meet the needs of each individual student. My daughter has needed additional support with handwriting, and her teacher's support has led us to the right tools for practice at home, but also for the classroom, to ensure she is able to improve her skill over time. This has allowed her to not feel bad about the need for additional help, especially at an age where social aspects can make a child feel singled out for being different or needing help. The way it is handled in her classroom makes it no big deal, and that allows her to have the confidence to continue to improve and succeed.

Posted: November 15, 2019

Kids hold each other accountable, to treat each other with kindness, and this is taught from an early age. The school does have a formal bullying policy, and most conflicts are handled directly with the students involved as active participants in the solution to the conflict. I have seen this empower my daughter to speak up more and not immediately turn to find someone else to solve an issue or conflict for her. What a gift!

Posted: November 15, 2019

My daughter has been enrolled at MSLF for 6 years. This has truly been the best investment we could make for her, her future, and her confidence as an individual facing a largely unknown future in today's society. When the academics are taught in a way that focuses on concrete understanding first, building to more abstract concepts, the core beliefs teach respect and instill confidence, and the overall nature of the Montessori environment gives her more than ANY traditional environment could ever give her, I cannot express enough how valuable it is for her future. The investment we have made NOW will serve her far into the future. Please do yourself a favor and visit the Montessori School of Lake Forest, to see it for yourself. You won't be sorry!

Posted: November 7, 2019

Traditional homework is not a part of the Montessori principals. That said, my children that attend MSLF are doing more after school inclusion of learning versus my child that attends traditional school. They are exploring their surroundings more, reading at night, and actively participating in household chores as that is all part of their normal day at MSLF.

Posted: November 7, 2019

MSLF has the best teachers in the business. Hands Down. These special humans are giving my kids a gift that they will have the rest of their lives.

Posted: November 7, 2019

No doubt this is another one of the great strengths at MSLF.

Posted: November 7, 2019

Leadership comes in many forms. The leadership at this school comes from administration, board support, community support, and so much more.

Posted: November 7, 2019

I am not sure if this is MSLF specific or Montessori, but the way the kids interact and learn with each other is a site to see. No kid is left behind.

Posted: November 7, 2019

Bullying isn't really a thing at MSLF. The kids respect each other and their community that I don't think it has ever been a big issue. I believe the school is dealing with bullying by providing an experience that keeps bullying from starting...

Posted: November 7, 2019

I have 2 children in the school now and they have been there for several years. MSLF has accepted them and our family as part of the community. My children are learning advanced subjects, but beyond anything else, it is the love of learning they have is the true gift. At school they are surrounded by an amazing outdoor "natures" classroom, indoors they are surrounded by love and attention. In my profession, I hire many people. The values that my children are gaining are the exact same value that I am looking for in the people I hire. Independent problem solvers that are proactively learning and helping those around them. This is the MSLF way.

Posted: November 7, 2019

We love MSLF. We will be sending our third child there this next year. I canNOT recommend this school enough for families looking for a strong education And a compassionate community.

Posted: November 7, 2019

There is no homework given as part of the Montessori philosophy. Children learn during the day and encouraged to apply their lessons outside of school.

Posted: November 7, 2019

The teachers wholeheartedly believe in their school and invest in the whole child/student. We are consistently impressed by how much the teachers go out of their way to support our children and family.

Posted: November 7, 2019

In a crowd of children, you can identify those that are attend MSLF by their empathy, respect and bright nature.

Posted: November 7, 2019

When concern was raised about my sonss speech, it was handled respectfully, thoughtfully and with a lot of support for my son and for us, as parents. The therapy he receives through the school has helped him improve immensely and I love how his therapist works with his teacher and the school schedule.

Posted: November 7, 2019

Our family has been a part of the MSLF community for over 8 years now. All three of our children have attended the school in their various programming offerings. We couldn't be happier. The curriculum is wonderful but it is the dedicated teachers and the specialists (Chinese, theater, outdoor educators, Spanish, etc...) that go above and beyond that we keep coming back for. I would highly recommend this school to anyone in the area. Our entire family loves this community.

Posted: November 27, 2018

At MSLF, an emphasis on peace, kindness, and empathy within the classroom makes bullying a rare occurrence. Even at a young age, children are taught phrases and ways to express themselves if someone hurts their feelings and how to respond if they hurt someone elses. The teachers are very proactive about creating classroom communities that are warm and respectful. Seeing this gives me hope for our world!

Posted: November 27, 2018

Speaking for the toddler and primary levels (ages 6 and under), children do not have homework and are encouraged to read, play, and be children. As they should be. Montessori does an awesome job of cultivating self-motivated learners.

Posted: November 27, 2018

The teachers make the school. Every child receives personalized attention and the teachers are always happy to answer any question you may have. In my experience, they go above and beyond to provide the best possible education.

Posted: November 27, 2018

100%. MSLF truly brings to life Maria Montessoris focus on creating a peaceful world and teaching the principles needed to cultivate that among children. Kindness and empathy are core parts of the curriculum and it shows in the way children treat each other.

Posted: November 27, 2018

The current leadership is guided by a commitment to providing the best possible education and doing so in a way that is proactive and transparent.

Posted: November 27, 2018

While I dont have personal experience with this issue (hence the neutral rating), I will say that the Montessori approach is very individualized by nature, allowing teachers to work with students and parents in a highly personalized way that is often far more challenging in a more traditional educational environment.

Posted: November 27, 2018

Over the past two years, our children have thrived at Montessori School of Lake Forest. Not only are they growing in leaps and bounds intellectually (my 5-year-old is doing addition with numbers in the thousands!), but they also are becoming confident, independent learners. The school offers a highly personalized approach to learning, led by specially trained teachers who know how to bring out that love of learning. Also, the campus itself is beautiful - each classroom is designed like its own little house with indoor and outdoor environments and the grounds are unparalleled. Our children have received true outdoor education, which is hard to find but oh-so important in our tech-obsessed culture. Love this school!

Posted: November 24, 2018

The children are encouraged to engage in unstructured play and family time rather than homework as appropriate.

Posted: November 24, 2018

The teachers at MSLF are incredible. They are highly trained, incredibly capable, diligent and caring. The teachers are the heart of the school.

Posted: November 24, 2018

Integrity, compassion and respect are key pillars upon which MSLF was built.

Posted: November 24, 2018

MSLF is a school which uses the Montessori method as the foundation of the education programming. As such, the school is uniquely positioned to support students with learning differences. Each student is allowed to learn and explore standard educational principles at their own pace, in a classroom suited to different learning styles, within a curriculum that is adaptable to traditional school.

Posted: November 24, 2018

The teachers and specialty staff at MSLF have been an invaluable part of our boys' education and long-term love of learning. They are inspired to be curious, ask (and answer) questions and explore the world in a way that accomplishes educational expectations and enhances self-confidence.

Posted: October 5, 2018

As mentioned before, respectfull personality has developed in these kids that no remarkable bullying has been recorded, when bullying seems to be showing is properly handled by their immediate directris.

Posted: October 5, 2018

Very knowledgeable of how to direct the kids interest in productive work and learning

Posted: October 5, 2018

Character is appreciated at every level and in all places. Compassion and respect is so present in their mind and heart that we see their caring personality even outside school.

Posted: October 5, 2018

You can see the great leadership reflected on the kids skills to lead in their own life and inmedediate surroundings

Posted: October 5, 2018

Everybody here learns at their own peace and is supported and things adjusted to their specific needs; setting them up for success

Posted: October 5, 2018

100% satisfied and highly admire the family like community and support everybody in this school have created.

Posted: September 27, 2018

MSLF has offered my 4 children independence, confidence, intelligence, compassion, and respect. The teachers are exceptional, the campus is incredible and the community is engaging. We are so grateful to be a part of this school.

Posted: May 31, 2017

The response is immediate and unwavering. The expectations of peers has a significant impact, and the entire staff are a critical part in addressing this issue if it does arise

Posted: May 31, 2017

We have experienced this first hand as we have managed the needs of our own child. The dedication of the teacher to sort this out in a manner that works for him, the class and his needs has been nothing short of amazing

Posted: May 31, 2017

Solid traditional Montessori leadership, with a strong pulse on educational advancements, changing world dynamics and the need to balance tradition, consistency and relevant education.

Posted: May 31, 2017

There is an expectation that every student respect themselves, others and their environment. This is a core part of everyday life at the school, and I see it as i watch children interact and help one another all the time.

Posted: May 31, 2017

Each and every teacher I have encountered has worked in a manner that engages every child and supports their needs. Their ability to adapt and teach is exceptional.

Posted: May 31, 2017

The Montessori approach does not include homework assignments specifically, but I find we are constantly discussing the things learned each day and demonstrating skills. Amazing ! Without the pressure and time needed for traditional homework

Posted: May 31, 2017

We joined the school after a relocation over 5 years ago and it was the most welcoming, supportive experience we could have hoped for. The student population was very diverse, and the school was very adaptive to families moving from other cities, states and for us - countries. Since then we have watched our boys thrive. With an amazing set of teachers, assistants and special program directors - every child is able to learn, grow and develop in a manner and pace that suits their specific needs and learning style. For us, this was critical, and we have been so happy our choice of schools then and now.

Posted: February 21, 2017

They address any issues right away and really work hard to emphasize respect for all peers at school. I don't think anyone feels left out or disrespected.

Posted: February 21, 2017

While the school is set up to help students learn at their own pace, they don't have in house staff to help with students with significantly different abilities. Being a private school, they have speech therapists and reading help available but it is at an extra cost to the parent. They don't have mental health counseling available for students, which I think might be helpful in some cases for kids who are having trouble adjusting.

Posted: February 21, 2017

I love the head of the school - she really cares about each student and gets to know every family. She is passionate about creating an environment where kids grow into responsible, thoughtful, intelligent, kind human beings. I think she sets a great tone for the rest of the school.

Posted: February 21, 2017

Kids refer to the other kids as friends straight off the bat. There is a big focus on helping out each other in the classroom and learning from classmates, not just teachers. Kids work together regularly on classroom chores. The school also does a lot of social service projects and does a lot to create a real sense of community.

Posted: February 21, 2017

They are really focused on getting to know the strengths and weaknesses of each child as they are with them for a full 3 years. They work individually with each child on a regular basis. Moreover they have a holistic and kind approach. They don't just teach academics, they teach responsibility and respect for others.

Posted: February 21, 2017

There is no homework, kids work during class.

Posted: February 21, 2017

First, let me clarify I am not associated with the school in any way other than as a parent. My daughter has been attending MSLF in elementary for a year and a half and she is thriving. All my relatives who come to the school can't believe how beautiful it is and what an accomplished responsible young girl my daughter is becoming. Most importantly my daughter is loving school. She has made amazing friendships, bonded with her excellent teachers, and is learning in a holistic, exciting way. She isn't growing up too fast, but growing up confident and responsible. The school does offer financial aid if needed. I can't recommend this school enough and feel so lucky to send my daughter there.

Posted: July 29, 2014

We joined the MSLF Parent Infant class when my son was nine months old, and I am so grateful we did. One year later, he is in the Toddler program and thriving. This is a wonderful school, and a true Montessori environment. MSLF helped us transition our son into the Toddler program with grace; from home visits to classroom visits to having me stay on campus during his first days, someone was always available to assuage any fears or concerns I had, and they made sure to check in with me several times during the transition period. As a first-time mom returning to work after a long parental leave, this peaceful transition helped our entire family feel comfortable with these changes. MSLF is truly a gem. From the director, to the faculty and staff, to the delightful man who drives the school bus--this schools is filled with wonderful people who care about the children and the community. And don't even get me started on the school itself, and its beautiful grounds. You have to see it to appreciate it. As an educator, I am proud to send my son to MSLF. As a parent, I am grateful for the community, and the peace of mind I have knowing that he is in a wonderful place.

Posted: August 15, 2013

We spent 3.5 years at this school, and have since moved. We have moved to a much larger metropolitan area and cannot find a school to compare. While there were some rough years with a terrible director and one bad teacher (who are both gone), the teachers are fantastic and committed to the students. The natures classroom trip beginning around age 6-7 is absolutely amazing. We miss this school a lot. Such a great environment.

Posted: January 10, 2011

I am a former teacher and founder of an accredited school - so a very tough customer. I actually had tears of joy when I first visited here for my toddler. A calm toddler classroom? It was in my school and it is here which you don't see often. She had been in 2 "schools" previously which turned out to be daycare at best. I say this as a teacher, my child has been an incredibly fast learner and aware of everything from the beginning. Not even 3, she is reading and doing activities many 5 yr. olds can't do. She has WONDERFUL teachers and LOVES going to school. The school is very community oriented. I won't move from the area until my daughter graduates from here (if she so chooses).

Posted: June 21, 2010

I am updating a previous review of mine. I disagree with someone's negative post and do not think this is a 1 star school - that is an overreaction. I believe it is well worth the investment. We have been part of the MSLF community for 5+ years now. When my son was 4 and doing addition and subtraction with ease and doing multiplication, division when he was 5. My children have great manners and self esteem because of their education here. Participation and donations were down after a new school director came on board. She has since left and there has been a great weight lifted off the school for everyone involved. The teachers are experienced and committed and make it worthwhile. I have toured other Montessori Schools around the country and this school is exceptional.

#	Name	Type	City	State	Distance
1	Forrestal Military Community	Neighborhood/Subdivision	North Chicago	IL	2.6 mi
2	Forest City Nimitz	Neighborhood/Subdivision	North Chicago	IL	3.2 mi
3	Woodlake Apartments	Apartment Complex	Gurnee	IL	6.4 mi
4	Reserve at Eagle Ridge	Apartment Complex	Waukegan	IL	10.4 mi

#	Name	City	State	Overall Rating	Distance
1	Libertyville	Libertyville	IL		2.9 mi
2	Waukegan	Waukegan	IL		7.1 mi

Base	Distance
Great Lakes Naval Station	3.1 mi.
Coast Guard Chicago	35.1 mi.
General Mitchell ANGB Milwaukee	46.5 mi.

Montessori School of Lake Forest

Lake Forest, IL 60045

Refine Search

National Ad

Montessori School of Lake Forest

Lake Forest, IL 60045

Refine Search

National Ad

Email Address *

*We take your personal information very seriously and will never give it to a 3rd party. If you don't enjoy the email series, you can always unsubscribe at anytime.*

We take your personal information very seriously and will never give it to a 3rd party. If you don't enjoy the email series, you can always unsubscribe at anytime.