Our family loves this school. It has been a great educational experience for our children. The teachers are CERTIFIED Montessori teachers and the philosophy is a completely integrated part of the school in every way. We feel very lucky to attend Ruffing.
Submitted by parent on January 29, 2023
We have been extremely disappointed with the lack of support for children with disabilities, learning differences, and mental health needs. The school leadership appears to not prioritize this important issue and shows little interest in accommodating the needs of these students. Additionally, the principal's communication with us has been shockingly disrespectful and uncaring. All of my children have attended this school for many years. Based on my experience, and the experience of other parents I have spoken to whose children attend this school, I would not recommend Ruffing Montessori school to any family, especially families with children who require any additional support in their education.
Submitted by parent on September 07, 2022
All of my children attended this school. While no place is perfect, Ruffing is as close as they come. It teaches resilience and a thirst for learning.
Submitted by other on May 15, 2019
I turn to John McNamara for advise and wisdom on anything to do with children and education. He is patient and thoughtful in all of our conversations.
Submitted by other on May 09, 2018
Drink the kool-aid and you and your kids will fit in fine.
Submitted by parent on August 28, 2017
All of my children attended Ruffing Montessori beginning in pre-primary. I have never had to worry about the quality of their education or whether they were getting what they needed in terms of instruction, discipline, or encouragement. The teachers meet the children wherever they are and nuture a life-long love of learning. My experience has been so good that I cannot imagine teachers behaving the way they were described in some of the negative reviews. Sometimes I think parents cannot accept constructive criticism and take their anger out on the teachers rather than recognizing the merit of the teacher's comments. They do their children a disservice!
Submitted by other on November 11, 2013
I attended this school 1st-8th grade. I can honestly say it was an absolutely terrible experience. My fellow classmates were cruel and relentless and the teachers and principal did nothing about it, even though it was brought to their attention several times. In fact, I had a few teachers repeatedly treat me terribly as well with comments and ridicule. Out of 8 teachers, I can only say something nice about 2 of them. If you want your child to be in a positive environment, do not send them here.
Submitted by parent on March 31, 2012
Ruffing Montessori is a good school but your experience will depend on what teacher you are assigned. My child attended this school and it was a nightmare. His teacher repeatedly made culturally insensitive remarks during our conferences and the class environment was very physical. I spoke to the teacher repeatedly about the physical culture of the class and she assured me it would get better but it never did. Also, my child told me she pointed her finger in his face and yelled at him. I sent her an email stating what my child told me and asked for clarification she did not respond. I withdrew my child out of the school. I am sure this is a good school but even good schools can have bad teachers. If you allow your child to attend a class directed by D. Liston you are doing him/her a disservice.
Submitted by parent on June 17, 2011
Excellent school! My daughter attended from 3 yrs old until 7th grade when we moved far east in Ohio. She now attends a public high school and has adapted wonderfully, academic and socially. As other reviews have stated, Ruffing teaches children what they need to know for the real world in addition to the academic studies. The studies let the child advance at their own pace and gifted children are not held back others that may need more attention. Although it was a bit of a financial strain for my family, I am so glad I made the decision and commitment for her to attend Ruffing.
Submitted by other on February 12, 2011
catholic option, I did not like that, some go to church in the gym some do not.