Turtle River Montessori School

926 Maplewood Drive

Jupiter, FL 33458

60 Reviews

School District
Grade

PK, K-8
Type

private

Find Homes for Sale in this School Zone

Reviews

Submitted by parent on February 11, 2025

It has been a pleasure to be a part of the Turtle River community for the last 7+ years. We love the method of teaching and the teachers who bring it to life every day. It is a harmony in our sons classroom. He has had the benefit of being the youngest at times with those to look up to, and also oldest at times with the responsibility of being a role model. We especially love the cultural element of this school, and all he is learning about the world.
Submitted by parent on August 15, 2024

I am incredibly grateful for the experience our family has had at Turtle River Montessori School, both the East and West Campuses. This school is truly a gem, and it's all thanks to the amazing staff who make it a nurturing and enriching environment. The leadership provided by Mrs. Lisa and Mrs. Alyssa is outstanding—they are always on top of every issue that arises, ensuring that every student is cared for and supported. Their commitment to the well-being and success of the students is evident in everything they do.Before coming to Turtle River Montessori, our children had some difficult experiences at other highly regarded schools in town, It was a challenging time for our family, and we were looking for a place where our children could feel safe, valued, and truly happy. We found all of that and more at Turtle River Famiy.Our children have been at Turtle River Montessori for three years now, and I can honestly say they have never been happier. The staff at this school not only love our children but also appreciate them for their manners and character. It is clear that the educators here are passionate about their work and deeply care for each child as if they were their own.The school has exceeded our expectations with its exceptional academic program. The curriculum is both rigorous and engaging, fostering critical thinking and creativity. The teachers are dedicated and highly qualified, ensuring each student receives personalized attention and support. The school also offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities that complement academic learning, allowing students to explore their interests and develop new skills providing an outstanding education that prepares students for future success in both higher education and beyond.Thank you, Turtle River Montessori School, for teaching our children with love, care, and respect. You have set the standard for what every school should be, and we are so fortunate to be a part of your community.
Submitted by parent on January 24, 2024

After researching this school and hearing such wonderful things, I did not hesitate to send my child here. I am only familiar with the East campus as my child attended school here from 3-6 years old. I really did love their approach to learning and how they claim to provide an open and supportive environment for children that suites their needs, at their own pace. But I do believe parents need to be warned about this campus and the director/owners that are running it. I do not believe they have their best interest in the children and their educational setting. I do believe that they have wonderful, nurturing, some- educated teachers however, I believe the director of this school consistently is failing the children and families that attend this campus. There is a list of red-flags with the director that oversees this campus and the beautiful children that are in it. I have experienced a lot within my 3 years sending my child here and most of my issues had to do with the decisions that the ‘director’ in charge was making. My first concern with this school this year (August 2023) was that my child’s classroom did not have working A/C for the first two-weeks of the school year (August in FL). The director did not notify any parents of this issue, continued to let our children (4-6 years of age) stay in the hot classroom. On top of this, parents should be aware that NONE of the windows in this building are capable of opening (old-school building) and there was one door inside that classroom that lead to the outside. The director took it upon herself to take out the door that lead to the outside and create a make-shift plug in air-conditioner to cool down the classroom. Now, not only where the parents of this class not notified, but it was also a concern for a fire hazard and safety issue, the environment of the classroom was completely not safe- how will my child get out of the classroom if there was a fire or emergency? When you are paying so much in tuition, you would think such a private school would have safety down but they DO NOT and that is my biggest concern with this campus, as I encountered multiple unsafe encounters during my time here- car break ins, no cameras that are recording/actually work, no security guard (that is new). FYI- be veeeerrrrryyy cautious if thinking about sending your child here!! Luckily, Jupiter FL is filled with a lot of great schools, so you DO have options!
Submitted by parent on February 07, 2023

When we began looking for a daycare option for our oldest child nearly 6 years ago, Turtle River was on our list and quickly rose to the top of it. Walking into the lobby of the East campus we were met with a calm atmosphere, different from many of the brightly colored, noisy, overwhelming environments we saw at other daycares we toured. We enrolled our oldest, and then as they were old enough, our second and third child as well.As a former VPK teacher, I was looking for an environment that fostered independence, encouraged children to advocate for themselves, and presented a well-rounded curriculum to develop my child in ALL areas, not just an academic curriculum.In our experience, Turtle River has met our needs and goals.As our children have grown and moved on to the West Campus, we have seen the staff using data gathered from observations, testing, and conversations with our children to help them grow personally and academically. They enjoy going to school, they come home talking about the experiments they did, the lessons they learned, and the fun that they had.The teachers that we have had the pleasure to get to know really care about their students, and love working with them. As parents, we are invited into the classroom for special events all year long to coincide with what students are learning.One of my favorite things (of many) is that parents are encouraged to observe the classrooms if they are curious or want to see how their children are doing, through the use of one-way observation windows.
Submitted by parent on November 11, 2022

I attended a Montessori school through elementary and was raised by a mother who is a Montessori teacher. Down the road my children attended Turtle River Montessori and they have returned to TRM for their middle school years. I am a former teacher in both the private and public sectors and I can't say enough about Turtle River Montessori. The true vision of Maria Montessori, to teach the whole child and to empower the child to be intrinsically motivated for a lifetime of learning happens at Turtle River. Both of our children are free and independent thinkers, highly engaged in their learning and driven by the curiosity which was fostered at TRM. As my oldest moved to a new school for high school, she is thriving and much of that is because of Turtle River. Her ability to self advocate, to communicate with her new teachers, to feel confident enough to ask big questions and to be responsible for her own academics is such a joy to witness. The middle school at Turtle River has fully prepared her for the workload in high school and supported and encouraged her to expand her views, navigate broad thinking, and understand deep, analytical texts in order to speak confidently about her work. This is such a gift. We are all forever grateful to the staff, faculty and families of Turtle River Montessori for all they do over the years.
Submitted by other on June 29, 2022

We love this school ! We were considering many different schools but fell in love with the teachers, staff, everyone. My son is doing so well and I couldn’t be more pleased! Highly recommend!
Submitted by other on January 17, 2022

I am an alumni of TRM and attended the school from 4th grade through 8th grade (I also attended Montessori schools since Pre-K).The school’s Montessori program equipped me with both academic and personal skills that have helped me thrive through high school and college. From learning advanced reading and writing to advanced math and problem solving, I was more than prepared to attend a top high school in the state. Furthermore, this school instilled in me leadership, time management, and public speaking skills, enabling me to grow as a student and lifelong learner. I just completed my bachelor’s degree in one of the best universities in the state and accepted a position at a Fortune 500 company, and I can guarantee that my success is backed by the education I received at TRM.
Submitted by teacher on October 27, 2021

"Working at TRM has been awesome. I started this year, and so far it's been great. Compared to other schools, the work environment, culture and students are excellent. It's low stress, and the focus is 100% on the child. I have a history teaching in public schools, and the work environment is a night and day difference. It's great to have the tools needed to be successful as an educator (school supplies, Montessori materials, admin support etc.) The work culture is great to be in, it's one of kindness, acceptance and love. Our entire staff is just so friendly and welcoming, and we work well together. The teachers here really have a passion for education and our students. It's so wonderful to be around. Students here at TRM are excited to learn, and are given the tools to be successful not only in the classroom, but in life. Independence, respect, value for oneself, others, and the world are taught day in, day out and create a high level of consistency. Overall, I would give TRM 5/5 stars as an employee."
Submitted by parent on October 14, 2021

As a former teacher at Turtle River and now as a parent, I am continually astounded by the whole child approach to their students. My two daughters attended for many years in Primary and Lower Elementary and have returned to the school for 7th and 8th grade. To say we feel grateful is an understatement. The teachers, staff, faculty and community of students as well as parents inspires both my husband and I as well as our children. Both girls feel truly seen, heard, accepted and supported. Their sense of self and also their sense of intrinsic determination is blossoming each day they are in the building. From humanities to math to out of the classroom field trips, their learning is self driven and they feel encouraged to push their curiosity. To be in middle school, surrounded by kindness speaks to the truth of what we are all seeking. To be validated, challenged and pressed to grow in a nurturing environment. We are forever grateful to be back at TRM
Submitted by parent on June 15, 2021

I am writing this review to warn future parents. While Turtle River has a good reputation, the school's performance does not match the reviews. The teachers seem miserable, and I have seen more leave in the passed couple of months than ever before. We personally decided to leave for multiple reasons. The first being that my child's underwear were disappearing. I think they have been sent home with other students although they were clearly labeled. I cannot begin to express how unprofessional a school must be to be mixing up undergarments during a pandemic. The school is hiring "teachers" with no certification, a little concerning considering the tuition paid to attend the school. The school is more worried about their reputation than the development of the children. This review was not the first attempt to voice my concerns, as the leader has done her best to avoid and disregard any concerns I or other parents have voiced. I hope this review helped in your search for education. Personally, we are very happy with our decision to leave.
Submitted by parent on March 01, 2021

8years in TRM has been an enrichment experience for my son. He entered TRM being shy, scared, insecure & separation anxiety TRM gave him not just tools and guidance, but the confidence he needed. Teachers and stuff always helped to comfort both of us all the time. He is blossoming socially, emotionally and academically. Not only does TRM focus on education and lessons, but they also support the basic essentials in life: time management, kindness for others, working in group projects with different mindset, working indecently being responsible for your work, and public speaking. Project base and hands on learning methods and materials. I personally feel like the Montessori model for education creates a well-rounded child who is prepared for all life’s challenges, who is curious about the world around them, who asks questions and challenges old thinking, and has the work ethic to achieve greatness by thinking outside of the box.I would strongly suggest TRM as it helps your child develop skills needed later in life very early in school years. Whole process happens very organically that sparks your child spirit for learning.
Submitted by parent on February 16, 2021

Our two kids have been going to TRM for over 8 years starting in Kindergarten and we have been more than happy with the school, the teachers, and the other parents as a community. TRM provides a warm and welcoming environment on a daily basis that treats each kid as an individual for their social as well as academic development. Lessons are tailored for the individual student's learning abilities, which means most kids are often ahead of the standard expectation. Reading, writing, researching in all subject matters, as well as presenting their learning is a central tenet of the TRM.
Submitted by parent on February 12, 2021

My children have been at Turtle River Montessori since they were 3 and 4 respectively and are now 11 and 12 and have thrived in this nurturing environment. Not only does TRM focus on education and lessons, but they also support the basic essentials in life: time management, treating others with respect, respecting your environment, working independently but also in collaboration with a team, and public speaking. The material is presented through hands on lessons that encourages retention. I have been amazing hearing my children repeat their knowledge to me. I personally feel like the Montessori model for education is the way of our future with more flexible work lifestyles and entrepreneurial opportunities. The gift of a Montessori education creates a well-rounded child who is prepared for all life’s challenges, who is curious about the world around them, who asks questions and challenges old thinking, and has the work ethic to achieve greatness by thinking outside of the box.
Submitted by parent on February 11, 2021

I have four kids- two have graduated from TRM, two are still there in 5th grade and 8th grade. All four of my kids started at TRM when they were 2-3 years old. When we decided to enroll them, I had no plans for them to stay. However, as I learned about the Montessori method and as we grew to become part of the beautiful community that the founder has so lovingly created, I could never have moved my kids to another school. This school embodies holistic education, and students who graduate from TRM are prepared academically for high school, as they possess the depth and breadth of subject matter taught during their years at TRM. More importantly, these kids leave with a very strong sense of self, ready to tackle the tough challenges and choices they will face as high schoolers, unafraid to be who they are and excited to pursue what interests them most.
Submitted by parent on February 10, 2021

We have three children there from preschool through upper elementary. There are wonderful benefits and experiences for all ages. All of our children continue to love to learn due to the Montessori method of teaching and the wonderful teachers. We highly recommend this school.
Submitted by parent on February 10, 2021

We have 3 children at TRM, all starting in PreK. TRM really instills a love of learning in their students and focus on preparing their students with time management skills, public speaking and independence. They work hard to create a safe and welcoming environment where they can be truly be themselves. We feel very safe sending our kids to TRM, especially during this crazy time.
Submitted by parent on February 01, 2021

We have two boys (ages 3.5 & 6) at TRM and have attended for two school years now. I am continuously impressed by the administration and staff's dedication to the children's social-emotional AND academic well-being. Whenever I spend time with the staff or in the classroom (now at a safe distance/outside to respect current CDC guidelines), I am inspired by the classroom community and family they create. This leads to enhanced learning collaboration, problem-solving, and curiosity. The children are presented with new and exciting lessons and encourage EACH OTHER because they are mirroring what the adults do for them. Turtle River is truly a special place and I write the staff weekly to express my gratitude. I recommend this school to personal friends, as a parent and professionally as a behavior specialist.
Submitted by parent on January 28, 2021

We highly recommend Turtle River Montessori. We have been attending TRM since our oldest daughter, now 6, was 2. We now have a 2 year old in a preprimary class, a 4 year old in Primary, and a 6 year old in 1st grade! The teachers and administrators are so nurturing and go above and beyond to help our children excel academically, socially and emotionally. There is a true sense of community on both campuses, and my kids are excited to go to school every single day. My kids are pushed to their utmost capacity academically, given so many resources to learn. They are able to learn and explore at their own pace through hands on experiences. The kids learn from each other, teach one another and develop life long skills such as confidence, inclusion, independent thinking, and empathy. My kids are truly thriving in every aspect and we could not be more happy at Turtle River Montessori.
Submitted by parent on January 27, 2021

We are so thankful to have found TRM for our son. After first sending him to a different local preschool at the age of 2.5 we quickly learned that while that school was lovely in many ways, it simply wasn't the right fit for him. He is smart and social however he is a sensitive kid who would always prefer to be home with me given the option. For us, finding a school which truly felt safe and fun like his home environment did was imperative. We wanted a space which encouraged classroom exploration, outdoor play, gardening or connecting to nature in some way, learning all of the basic age-appropriate education fundamentals and, most importantly, helped the little ones understand emotional intelligence and kind interaction. It is not enough to have smart children who are emotionally lost/disruptive or to have kind kids who are behind intellectually. We wanted a strong balance of the two. Now, having been a TRM family for the past two years we can see the massive strides our son has taken in all of these important aspects of his developmental growth. He is 4.5 and loves to show us his math (adding numbers like 2456 + 1391), he loves to read us books and every week he proudly brings home science and art projects which coincide with that month's topic. TRM has an inclusive approach to their curriculum in that one fun topic (i.e., Africa) carries the kids from Botany to Science to Geography to Cultures to Art to Math to Reading and back. They don't just look at a book and find a continent on the map - they dive deep and explore different aspects of that region in the most creative and engaging ways! The teachers we have here are amazing, (aside from COVID times) you can pop in at any point during the day to see the class in action, they offer many special days throughout the year for parents and grandparents to participate in the classroom, all families volunteer and come together to help foster a strong sense of community and, best of all, our sensitive little one is now happy and excited to go to school each day! * Also, the outdoor play areas are amazing. They have playhouses, swings, a mini hill, a paved track, garden beds, fenced in and shaded private areas per classroom with picnic tables and education bins so kids can have snacks/meals outdoors or play in that shaded space (they aren't stuck inside all day or only allowed out at playground time - there are many opportunities for indoor or outdoor study).
Submitted by parent on July 04, 2019

I promote a Montessori education but not for middle school or high school.Students need more exposure and opportunities then this school can offer.After transferring from TRM, there were classes and credits that didn't transfer. No HS student want to have to repeat credits. I wish TRM the best but think it should end at fifth grade.