Montessori School: About Us
Children’s House, A Montessori Preschool was founded by Janell Jewett in January of 1990. Having done her Montessori studies in London, England and her internship in West Germany, Janell was dedicated to the Montessori principles and philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori. She wanted to bring that educational opportunity to the children and their families of Rapid City.
Children’s House opened its doors to one class of 5 preschool children and 1 teacher. What began in a little house with a small back yard on Clark Street, moved to its current location in 1996.
Designed to fit the criteria necessary to enhance individualized learning, the school continues to provide quality programs and learning opportunities for the young people of Rapid City. It has grown to a possible preschool enrollment of 100 children in four separate classes and an elementary program with a possible enrollment of 40 students in first through fifth grades. Children’s House became a state accredited school in the fall of 2000 and
adheres to the requirements set down by the South Dakota Department of Education.
adheres to the requirements set down by the South Dakota Department of Education.On January 1, 2010, twenty years after the school began as a corporation, Children’s House Montessori, converted to a 501(c)3. George and Janell Jewett were ready for a change and the parents were ready to take on the responsibilities of owning and operating the school. Even though the CHM School Board now presides over the operations of the school, very little has changed. The strong commitment to the Montessori philosophy and the positive child-centered environment will continue to be the main focus of Children’s House Montessori.
Located on 1 1/2 acres of land, Children’s House Montessori School harbors a pumpkin garden, a flower garden and a butterfly garden that are home to squirrels, birds and butterflies. Nestled into the wooded areas are forts for exploring, bird houses for observing and apple and plum trees for harvesting.
The playground, located in multiple areas on the property, includes a multi-activity jungle gym, a climbing frame, a swing set, a climbing wall, a sandbox, a crawling tunnel, a playhouse and the perfect sledding hill for snowy days. The indoor environment was specifically designed to maximize learning opportunities for all children. Montessori materials invite the children to explore various concepts using a multi-sensory approach.
Children’s House Montessori School provides an opportunity for all children to discover and explore the wonders of their environment both inside and outside the classroom.
“This school admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.”