​Montessori isn’t simply academics, it’s a way of life. Children in Montessori learn more than just math and reading -- they learn how to take care of themselves, each other, and their environment. In addition to keeping the classroom clean and caring for our plants and animals, children in our new “green” facility are taught the importance of caring for the larger environment – our planet Earth.

Our building, built according to U. S. Green Building Council standards for LEED certification, helps children learn how to efficiently use precious resources, such as electricity and water. These special features of our building help protect the environment:

• “No-mow” grass. Our grass is a special seed that grows so slowly, it only needs cutting once a year – and never needs to be watered. This saves water and reduces the fumes (and noise!) from lawnmowers.
  
  
• Water-efficient bathrooms. Our dual-flush toilets and sensor-controlled faucets means we only use water we absolutely need – nothing is “wasted.”
  
  
• White roof. It’s not just a color preference – our white roof reflects excess heat, reducing the “heat island” effect that warms the atmosphere around school.
  
  
• We use the rain! Rain barrels around the school collect rain water that the children use to water the outdoor garden – each classroom has one!
  
  
• Solatube Natural Daylighting fixtures. These special fixtures reduce the use of electricity by providing natural light to the classrooms. The children are aware of when lights are not needed. In addition, all lights are set on automatic sensors so that they turn off when no one is in the room.
  
  
• Ample insulation. Glass and masonry provide lots of insulation so we can keep the heat turned low and still stay warm.
  
  
• Energy recovery ventilators. These allow fresh air to be brought into the building while recovering up to 88% of the energy in the “old” air before it is exhausted to the outside.
  
  
• Sensor-controlled heating and cooling systems.  Both our heat and air conditioning systems automatically sense when rooms are vacant and adjust the temperature accordingly.
  
  
• Recycling – of course! We recycled 85% of the waste from our building’s construction – and recycle paper, glass, and plastic throughout the school.