At Crossroads Montessori School, we believe education should spark curiosity, nurture independence, and prepare students to engage with the real world.

Our programs are built on the principles of Dr. Maria Montessori’s philosophy and adapted to meet the needs of students in our Effingham community.

We offer a seamless K–12 Montessori experience — one of the only schools in Illinois to do so.

Our Elementary Program is divided into two multi-age groups:

Elementary I (Kindergarten–3rd Grade)

Elementary II (4th–6th Grade)

What makes our Elementary classrooms unique:

✅ Multi-age learning communities that encourage mentoring and leadership
✅ Hands-on materials and real-world projects
✅ Freedom to choose work within a prepared environment
✅ Supportive guidance from Montessori-trained teachers
✅ Time outdoors, in the garden, and in the community
✅ A foundation in academics, practical life skills, and social-emotional learning

Students build essential academic skills while developing independence, curiosity, and a sense of belonging.

Our Secondary Program supports adolescents as they grow into thoughtful, capable, and responsible young adults.
We follow the Montessori concept of Erdkinder — “children of the earth” — where learning is practical, purposeful, and connected to the real world.

What makes our Secondary program different:

✅ Student-driven projects, research, and field studies
✅ Opportunities for leadership, internships, and community work
✅ Restorative Justice practices and Student Council leadership
✅ Capstone projects for upper-grade students
✅ Outdoor learning, service learning, and real-world problem solving
✅ A focus on academic skills, self-reflection, and personal growth

Students learn how to manage their time, collaborate with others, and prepare for life beyond high school.

Our curriculum is rooted in Montessori principles and designed to meet the needs of the whole child:

Language Arts, Math, Science, & Social Studies

Practical Life & Executive Function Skills

Fine Arts, Music, and Theater Opportunities

Environmental & Outdoor Education

Real-World Projects, Internships, and Community-Based Learning

Field Studies & Student-Led "Going Out" Experiences

Digital Literacy & Responsible Technology Use

Restorative Justice, Leadership, & Character Development

You can view more details in our curriculum guides below:
Elementary I (Grades K–3) Curriculum Overview (COMING SOON)
Elementary II (Grades 4–6) Curriculum Overview
Secondary (Grades 7-12) Curriculum Overview

At Crossroads Montessori, the world is our classroom.
Students spend time outdoors, in local parks and gardens, at the library, and in the Effingham community — connecting what they learn to real life.

We believe that meaningful learning happens everywhere.