Our School

A school where children grow into themselves.

At Crystal Lake Montessori, we believe children are capable of much more than simply following directions, completing assignments, and moving from one grade to the next.

They are capable of thinking for themselves.
They are capable of meaningful work.
They are capable of caring for their community.
They are capable of solving problems, making choices, and learning from mistakes.


Our job is to create the environment where they can.

Our History

For more than 40 years, CLMS has been a Montessori school serving children and families throughout McHenry County and the surrounding communities. We provide an authentic Montessori education from Toddler through Middle School in an environment designed around children's natural drive to learn, grow, and become increasingly independent.

We are an International Peace Site

Crystal Lake Montessori school became an International Peace Site in 2004. Partnering with World Citizen, we embrace their mission to empower communities to educate for a just and peaceful world.


Being an International Peace Site means that CLMS is committed to the following 5 PEACE ACTIONS:

 

  • SEEK peace within yourself and others
  • REACH OUT in service
  • PROTECT the environment
  • RESPECT diversity
  • BE a responsible citizen of the world

“The instructions of the teacher consist then merely in a hint, a touch—enough to give a start to the child. The rest develops of itself.”

- Dr. Maria Montessori

Our Mission

The mission of CLMS is to provide an inclusive Montessori education in partnership with the family that nurtures the whole child – socially, emotionally, physically, and academically – on their journey to become global citizens.

Statement of
Non-Discrimination

Crystal Lake Montessori School is committed to equal opportunity and respect for diversity. The school does not discriminate based on race, color, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, national origin, age, socio-economic level,  religion, learning style, genetic information, or physical ability.