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Christian Montessori · Prior Lake & Savage, MN

A Different Way to Learn.
A Place to Belong.

Small by design. Big on purpose. A Christian Montessori community for families who want more than “just school”—they want meaning, belonging, and a path for their child to thrive.

Choose the schedule that fits your family—3-Day Homeschool Hybrid or 5-Day Private Academy.

Discover a joyful community where your child’s unique gifts are celebrated, and learning is guided by faith, wonder, and belonging.

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What we believe

The Heart of SouthBridge

Four convictions shape every day in our classrooms—the way we teach, the way we welcome, and the way each child is known.

01

Child-Led Learning, Guided by Faith

Every child is uniquely created by God, and our curriculum honors that individuality. Following the Montessori principle of “following the child,” we meet students where they are in reading, math, and every subject—empowering them to grow at their own pace while nurturing resilience, perseverance, and a love for learning.

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02

Whole-Child Curriculum

We integrate core academics—language arts, math, science, history, and geography—with Bible stories, hands-on exploration, and practical life skills. Children learn to think critically, discover the world, and build strong foundations for both academic achievement and character.

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03

Partnership with Families

Education works best when home and school are connected. We encourage active parent involvement, regular communication, and collaborative support—so families can reinforce and celebrate learning at home, helping every child thrive in the classroom and beyond.

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04

Celebrating Mistakes & Growth

Mistakes are a natural, valuable part of learning. By creating a safe space to try, reflect, and try again, students develop confidence, grit, and a mindset for lifelong growth—preparing them to become amazing adults rooted in faith and ready for life’s challenges.

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This year

Our Vision for Growth

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A circle of students laughing together in a sunlit classroom
01

Building Lifelong Friendships

We foster an environment where children form meaningful friendships, learn to collaborate, and grow together in kindness and respect—a place where every student belongs and relationships are rooted in Christian love.

A child examining a hands-on Montessori material with focused curiosity
02

Inspiring Curiosity and Wonder

We encourage every child to ask questions, explore new ideas, and see God’s handiwork in the world around them. Through hands-on learning and discovery, students develop a curiosity that fuels academic and spiritual growth.

A parent and child reading together at home
03

Empowering Families as Partners

Parents are a vital part of each child’s journey. We support, equip, and celebrate families with open communication, helpful resources, and opportunities for involvement—so everyone feels connected and valued all year long.

Small by design

A place where every child is known by name, and learning is woven with faith, wonder, and belonging.

Take the next step

Three simple ways to begin

Learn how we nurture growth and inspire a lifelong love of learning.

Discover Our Programs

Reserve your child’s place for the coming school year.

Enroll for Fall 2026

Reach out with questions or schedule a school tour.

Connect With Our Directors
Who we are

Our Leadership

A small team of founders and teachers who know every child by name—and walk alongside every family.

Cathy King, Co-Founder and Teacher, smiling outdoors

Cathy King

Co-Founder & Teacher

Kirsten Hancock, Co-Founder

Kirsten Hancock

Co-Founder

Yohanna Kelly, Teacher

Yohanna Kelly

Teacher

Admissions

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything families ask before they tour. Still wondering about something? We’d love to talk.

What ages and grades do you serve?

We welcome children in kindergarten through sixth grade. We are also introducing our Bridge to Kindergarten program. Our age-banded classrooms are thoughtfully designed to nurture each student’s growth, no matter where they are on their learning journey.

Children must be five years old by September 1 of the current year to be considered. Bridge to Kindergarten is designed for children who meet this age requirement but may want an additional year before traditional Kindergarten—this classroom runs on a two-year cycle for families who wish to have that extra time.

What days and hours does Southbridge meet?

Our 3-Day program runs Monday through Wednesday. Our 5-Day program runs Monday through Friday, with Friday as an early release day ending at 1 p.m.

Drop-off for all programs begins at 8:30 a.m., and class officially starts at 8:45 a.m. Classes end at 3:15 p.m., with final pickup no later than 3:30 p.m.

What is Montessori education?

Montessori education is a proven, child-centered approach that encourages independence, curiosity, and a love of learning. In our classrooms, students explore hands-on materials, work at their own pace, and are guided by experienced teachers who support both academic and personal growth.

How does faith fit into the curriculum?

Faith is gently woven into our daily routines and classroom culture. Children engage with stories, reflections, and values that help them develop kindness, empathy, and a strong moral foundation in a welcoming environment.

When should I apply for enrollment?

A tour is the first step in our enrollment process. After completing your tour, you will be invited to apply to Southbridge.

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What happens after I submit my application?

Once you submit your application, you will be notified of acceptance into your preferred program or placed on a waitlist. Your application holds your place on the waitlist and will be applied to the registration fee should a place open up.

Are there tuition or registration fees?

For new families, there is a $90 application fee that is applied to the registration fee. For the 2026–2027 school year, there is a $300 non-refundable registration fee per student, with a family maximum of $600. Tuition for each program is listed on the Enrollment & Tuition page.

Enrollment & Tuition
Do I need to register my child as a homeschool family?

Families enrolled in the 3-Day program are required to register as a homeschool family in Minnesota. Families entering the 5-Day program will be enrolled by Southbridge.

Is there before or after school care available?

No, Southbridge does not offer before or after school care. Drop-off begins at 8:30 a.m., and the school day runs from 8:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Families must pick up their children by 3:30 p.m.

Do I need to purchase school supplies for my child?

No extra school-supply shopping is needed. All classroom materials and supplies are included in your registration fee—we provide everything your child will need, so you can start the year stress-free and confident your student is fully equipped.

What if my child has never attended a Montessori school?

No prior Montessori experience is needed. We welcome children from all educational backgrounds and offer plenty of support as new students adjust to our learning environment, routines, and hands-on approach.

Come see us

A small school with big purpose.

The best way to understand Southbridge is to visit. Book a tour, meet our directors, and picture your child here.