First Steps Montessori School

2450 River Oaks Boulevard

Houston, TX 77019

6 Reviews

School District
Grade

PK-K
Type

private

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Reviews

Submitted by parent on August 20, 2014

In reply to "First Steps not warm/nurturing". I have 2 children at First Steps and when I have another he/she will also be at First Steps. The school's goals are to develop independent children with self confidence at an early age. Having a "lovey" would hinder this development. I have observed my children on many occasions and the toddler program actually has an observation area. As a parent of children in the school I appreciate that if a child may be sick and you cannot "control his or her snot" they are sent home. You should not have your child around others if they are not feeling well and have uncontrollable mucus. It is not fair to other children or other parents to have them at school. I have reviewed their curriculum and it's definitely a different process but to see my 3 year old beginning to read is amazing. My teacher has regularly scheduled meetings to talk about progress and I can also schedule meetings if I feel the need. A school should have rules and process that parents follow because it is a model for the children to follow. I never knew about Montessori before but for my children the foundation of independence has been extremely effective.
Submitted by parent on March 05, 2014

First Steps does not have the warm, nurturing atmosphere that you will find at most Montessori schools. Rules and order take precedence over children's needs. Policy takes precedence over families. Your child may not be able to bring a "lovey" or other comfort item to school. There is no show and tell. The school does not provide lunch. If your child cannot "control his or her snot," they are sent home immediately. Parents are not permitted to observe, or even step foot into, the classrooms. There is little to no communication between parents and teachers. Parents drop off in carpool and pick up in carpool. If you need to communicate something to your teacher, even if it is something she should know about your child that morning, the procedure is to leave a message at the front office and your teacher will call you at 1:00 pm. If you don't want the hassle of being involved with your child's education, then this may be the school for you. If you would prefer a collaboration with your teacher and school regarding your child's well-being, then you should probably look elsewhere.
Submitted by parent on September 08, 2012

My 2 children are flourished at this school. My youngest child just graduated and made it into the gifted program for elementary school thanks to his teachers encouraging him. Nothing but respect for the child came from the teachers and assistants. The office staff is helpful and knowledgable, too...not to mention fun!
Submitted by other on November 02, 2010

Went further?? If the school trains their teachers in ALL OF THIS, what would be the need for more training? The website states the teachers have at least 15 years training, but it does not mention if the aids are required to have such extensive training and the aids are NOT CERTIFIED, which was my concern. I am a teacher and we are all trained in the same thing CPR, etc., so that is nothing special. We do go through extensive background checks and I cannot say the same for this school. It is apparent some teachers and aids were 'ushered' in (maybe by knowing someone in the church). But just like all schools, none is perfect and this school definitely has its flaws (the "ballet' and "dance" classes are laughable, but .... my daughter went to this school for 2 years and then on to St. John, which she adores
Submitted by parent on September 07, 2010

My daughter is beginning her 3rd year at Firs Steps montessori and I can say nothing but good things about the the director, the staff and the entire program. Everyone on the First Steps Montessori Staff has a had a background check, is by trained and certified in CPR, has had to take "Safegaurding God's Children," and maintains continuing education hours in Montessori Training. I wish the program went further!! It is THE BEST!
Submitted by other on August 30, 2010

Great school. The aids are a little less than professional. My child has gone here for 2 years and while I could complain about the unprofessionalism of some of the staff, I will not point fingers. But, First Steps should update or do background checks on their teachers and aids and monitor them and their interaction with the kids.