Harbourview Montessori is a school that grew from a place of great love and respect for children. It was the brainchild of the founder, teacher and mom, Michelle Morrison. Here is how she describes the evolution of the school.
Harbourv
iew Montessori was born from a dream. This dream was to create the most beautiful, calm and enriching environment for young children. It was to create a place in which children would be supported in their development, learn according to their individual learning styles and temperaments, and come to know that they have unique gifts to be developed and realized. Maintaining a cheerful, accepting and loving environment would be the atmosphere essential to the development of each child’s unique gifts. For too long, the happiness factor had been left out of the education equation; it was time to make this a priority. Almost two decades ago, Harbourview Montessori School began as Harbourview Montessori Children’s House with six 3-year old children. The following year, the school expanded to 20 children; the third year, 24. We had reached our capacity.
After our 6th year, we purchased the old Westmount School, fully renovated it and expanded to include Elementary and, eventually, Middle School. Today, we have 4 beautiful classrooms, over 2 acres of wild and landscaped grounds, and a staff that is dedicated to our goal of nurturing, inspiring and supporting the social, emotional, physical and intellectual development of the children in our care. As founder, I feel a deep sense of satisfaction when I walk down our hallway, hearing and seeing signs of joyful learning. I feel a real sense of contentment when we hear, over and over again, parents praising us for our peaceful atmosphere, our open and professional communication, and the rich and varied curriculum we offer to our students. Finally, I feel a sense of humility when I realize that, together, we are helping to raise children to be kind, loving, generous and self-actualized individuals who will see and create beauty in our world. I am happy to say that, after almost 20 years, we are as strong in our core beliefs as we were in the beginning. Thank you to the incredible support from our staff, parents and, most importantly, our students.
We do hope that you enjoy the information contained on this website. For further information or to book a tour, phone our office (902) 539-8884 and we will be happy to help you!
What do parents think? Read our reviews from godaycare.com
“We couldn’t ask for a better early childhood education for our daughter. She started when she was three and we have been consistently impressed with the facilities, curriculum and teacher. So much thought goes into structuring the day, activities and year. We know she is never just passing time while there. Couldn’t recommend more highly”.
“We are thrilled that we chose this program for our child beginning at 3 years old. The Montessori philosophy that supports a child’s self-direction and intrinsic motivation to learn has been a very positive experience for our child and family. Our child LOVES going to school everyday. The teachers are incredibly knowledgeable, skilled and attentive to each child’s individual needs. We appreciate the cultural diversity that is evident and respected in the Harbourview community. We appreciate the attention to peace and respect amongst students and we love the emphasis on time outdoors. I would highly recommend Harbourview Children’s House as an alternative to daycare”.
“There are many things that I deeply appreciate about this school and the first is that every child is recognized and respected for their own individual self. Teachers take great time, care, and compassion to truly know each child. Children are engaged in the things they love and taught healthy social skills through modelling and practice (peace table, discussing emotions etc). They have plenty outdoor time with lots of room to run and play creatively… on real grass, amongst trees, and a multi-lingual peace garden, and wooden play structure. As this pre-school is located within an elementary school, the younger children are mentored by the older children during reading time and social gatherings. The same is true in the classroom where the older children are encouraged to help, care for, teach, and be a mentor to the younger children. The educational materials are practical and engaging and the program delivery is done with great creativity and care. What is felt most is the love in this beautiful environment”.
