Steps from 50th & France · SW Minneapolis · Est. 2019
Where children thrive in two
languages
Located just steps from 50th & France in Southwest Minneapolis, Girasol is a bilingual English & Spanish Montessori school for children 33 months to 6 years, a peaceful, prepared environment rooted in authentic Montessori philosophy.
Bilingual English & Spanish ✦
Authentic Montessori ✦
Montessori Certified Guides ✦
Ages 33 Months – 6 Years ✦
Year-Round Program ✦
Steps from 50th & France ✦
State Licensed & Inspected ✦
Bilingual English & Spanish ✦
Authentic Montessori ✦
Montessori Certified Guides ✦
Ages 33 Months – 6 Years ✦
Year-Round Program ✦
Steps from 50th & France ✦
State Licensed & Inspected ✦
Why Girasol
A school unlike any other in Minneapolis
🌻
Bilingual English & Spanish
Academic lessons are taught in English, while Spanish is woven naturally into daily life through greetings, songs, stories, and conversation. This balanced approach builds a strong academic foundation while giving children joyful, authentic exposure to a second language, preparing them confidently for any school setting ahead.
🎓
Authentic Montessori
Our guides hold accredited Montessori certifications at the primary level (ages 3–6). We are deeply rooted in Dr. Montessori's philosophy, guided by years of real classroom experience. Where the evidence and our expertise point toward what truly serves children best, we embrace it. Montessori is our foundation, not a rigid script.
🌱
Prepared Environment
Our classrooms are carefully designed to meet each child's physical, psychological, and intellectual needs. Calm, beautiful spaces that invite exploration and independence. This is freedom within structure, not freedom without limits. Children thrive within clear community expectations: respect for peers, care for the environment, and shared responsibility for the space we all belong to.
👐
Mixed-Age Community
Children ages 33 months to 6 years learn together. Younger children are inspired by older peers; older children deepen their understanding by teaching what they know.
🌍
Cross-Cultural Understanding
Our team brings together diverse backgrounds and lived experiences from multiple countries and cultures. This multicultural richness flows naturally into daily life through language, music, storytelling, and celebration, giving children an authentic global outlook and a deep appreciation for the world's many perspectives from day one.
📅
Year-Round, Flexible Hours
We offer half-day, full-day, and all-day programs running year-round, five days a week, designed to work for working families without compromising the child's experience.
Our Story
Born from a parent's love for this method
Girasol Montessori School was founded in 2019 by Sharon Estrada, originally from Costa Rica, who moved to Minnesota in 2007. Sharon's journey began as a Montessori parent, and she was so transformed by what she saw that she earned her Montessori primary teaching certification from the Montessori Center of Minnesota in 2010.
After years working within Montessori communities, Sharon founded Girasol with a singular vision: to create an authentic, bilingual Montessori community where children and families from all backgrounds could belong. Girasol means sunflower in Spanish, meaning bright, warm, and always turning toward the light.
Children spend the morning in a carefully prepared Montessori environment, engaging in purposeful, self-directed activities guided by our trained staff. This program is especially well suited for younger children and for families who would like a gentle introduction to the school experience, allowing time for children to gradually build comfort, confidence, and independence away from home.
8:30 – 3:00
Full Day
Full Day Program
Our most desirable option. Children enjoy a full, unhurried day that flows naturally from morning exploration into a joyful and social lunchtime, followed by rest and meaningful afternoon activities. The entire day unfolds within a calm, consistent rhythm guided by Montessori principles and carried out in a bilingual environment from arrival to pickup.
8:00 – 5:00
All Day
All Day Program
An extension of our Full Day program designed for working families who need additional care. The day continues within a structured Montessori environment with early drop-off and later pickup. While maintaining a consistent rhythm, our staff remain attentive to the children's needs, allowing thoughtful flexibility to follow the child and support their comfort and engagement throughout a longer day.
All programs run year-round, Monday–Friday. Children are accepted ages 33 months through 6 years.* * We may consider children younger than 33 months on a case-by-case basis, depending on toilet readiness and overall maturity.
What Families Say
"We were fortunate to have our son be the first student enrolled in Girasol when it opened in November of 2019. It was Miss Sharon and her staff's genuine love and dedication to the children that made us stay. The classrooms are welcoming, clean, calm, and inspirational, absolutely unparalleled. Our son cherished his time at Girasol and we wouldn't consider sending our second child anywhere else."
— Dana
"I work with kids for a living and so I put a lot of thought into where the educational journey should begin for my two girls. I first heard of Girasol from a dad at the playground who said Girasol is a hidden gem and that I should check it out. Language immersion was important, but what was more important was finding a place that would foster the growth of my child that blended safety, respect, independence and fun. I'm a product of Montessori myself so I knew the importance of learning how to learn at a young age. Girasol means sunflower, which is really fitting as I've seen such my daughter blossom in confidence while at Girasol. This school has been a blessing for our family. In my daughter's words, it's the most amazing school."
— Asitha
"Our experience at Girasol Montessori has been nothing short of transformative. The warm and inviting environment fosters emotional regulation and provides safe spaces where our child feels secure in building relationships and engaging in meaningful learning. The staff is deeply committed to creating a community where every child and family feels valued and supported. We have seen our child flourish not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well, thanks to the nurturing atmosphere at Girasol. It truly feels like a second home, and we are grateful to be part of this wonderful community."
— Caitlin
"From the moment my daughter entered Girasol, we felt welcomed and part of a caring community. The teachers are incredibly nurturing, patient, and genuinely dedicated to each child's development. My daughter blossomed during her time at Girasol, and we appreciated the balance of learning with playtime and creative activities. We are grateful for Girasol!"
— Meghan
"Our daughter started at Girasol at 3 just after we moved to Minnesota from out of state. The teachers did a wonderful job of helping her make that difficult transition and she learned so much in her 2 years at the school. One thing that really stands out about Girasol, at least to us, was the sense of community. Our daughter made so many close friends during her time at the school! The children spend a good amount of time outside as a community and the school organizes some fun events for families that really contribute to forming these deep connections. We're so glad we found Girasol when we moved and hope to stay connected to the school as we transition to elementary."
— Emily
"Working with Sharon completely altered my perception of early childhood education. Her work with the children perfectly puts into action what Maria Montessori envisioned for the children of this world. Her dedication, patience, and clarity is inspiring and I have carried her wisdom with me throughout my life working with children and adults alike."
— Willow
"I can't say enough good things about our Girasol Montessori School! The nurturing environment and individualized approach to learning helped my children thrive both academically and socially. The dedicated teachers foster a love of exploration and creativity, allowing each child to learn at their own pace. Every day, my children came home excited about what they discovered, and I witnessed such growth in their confidence and independence. I highly recommend this preschool to any parent looking for a supportive and enriching educational experience!"
— Jenna & Shane
"Our family has been very blessed to have all three of our daughters attend Girasol Montessori with Ms. Sharon and Ms Jennifer. The teachers are all extremely kind and dedicated to creating a nurturing environment that encourages both community and independence. We're so grateful we found Girasol."
Rather than following a fixed curriculum, we follow the child. Dr. Montessori believed that every child carries within them a natural drive to learn, explore, and make sense of the world. Our role is to prepare an environment that supports and nurtures that inner motivation.
At Girasol, we place particular emphasis on the child's social and emotional development. As children learn to regulate their emotions, navigate relationships, and develop a sense of belonging within the community, they build the inner stability that allows true concentration to emerge. In Montessori education, this capacity for deep focus becomes the foundation for all meaningful future work.
In practice, this means children are free to move, choose activities, and engage with beautiful, hands-on materials in a carefully prepared environment. Our guides observe closely and offer support when needed, allowing children the time and space to repeat activities, develop concentration, and build confidence in their abilities.
Freedom in a Montessori classroom exists within a thoughtful structure. The environment is grounded in clear expectations of respect for oneself, respect for others, care for materials, and responsibility within the community. Within these guidelines, children develop independence, self-discipline, and a deep sense of belonging, creating a classroom atmosphere that is calm, purposeful, and joyful.
Independence
Children learn to care for themselves and their environment
Concentration
Uninterrupted 3-hour work cycles build deep focus
Language
Rich bilingual vocabulary acquired naturally through use
Community
Mixed-age groups foster empathy and leadership
Admissions
Ready to join our community?
We welcome families who share our belief in the power of childhood, the importance of language, and the beauty of learning at your own pace. Here's how enrollment works:
1
Schedule & Complete a School Tour
A tour is required before submitting an application. This gives you the chance to see our classrooms, meet our guides, and ask all your questions in person.
2
Submit Your Application
Submit a completed application along with a non-refundable $100 application fee (by check payable to Girasol Montessori School) for each child applicant.
As part of your application, please include a brief video of your child engaged in a hands-on activity with a parent, such as baking, planting, or completing a craft. This allows us to observe how your child follows directions, engages in a task, demonstrates independence, and interacts with a familiar adult, helping us facilitate the review process.
Once we receive your application, fee, and video, we will carefully review all materials. Accepted families will receive an email outlining the next steps for enrollment.
3
Enrollment & Contract
Upon acceptance, you'll sign an enrollment contract and submit the registration fee and security deposit to confirm your child's spot.
4
New Family Orientation
Prior to your child's first day, new families will receive a welcome orientation packet with everything you need to know: school policies, daily rhythms, what to expect, and how to best support your child's transition.
Every new child also goes through a phase-in orientation week, allowing them to gradually acclimate to the prepared environment at their own pace, building confidence and comfort before fully joining the community.
Begin your child's journey
Tours fill up quickly. We recommend reaching out early, especially if you're looking for enrollment in the coming school year.
Choosing a school for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll make. We've answered the questions families ask us most, about our approach, our programs, and what daily life looks like at Girasol. Don't see yours? We'd love to hear from you.
About Our School
What is the heart of Girasol Montessori School?
At GMS, our highest priority is creating a kind and loving environment where every child feels safe, respected, and valued. We believe that social-emotional growth is the foundation of all learning. When children feel secure and supported, they are able to build trust in themselves and in others, develop resilience, confidence, and self-regulation, and fully engage in the academic and social opportunities around them. By focusing on the whole child, mind, body, and heart, we nurture not only capable learners, but also compassionate individuals who are inspired to become confident global citizens.
What makes Girasol different from larger schools or childcare centers?
When we started Girasol Montessori, we knew we wanted to stay small. Our goal was never to become a big center, but to create a boutique Montessori school, a warm, close-knit community where children, families, and staff truly know one another.
One of our families once described Girasol as "a hidden gem in the neighborhood," and that's exactly how we feel too. We take pride in being a place that feels personal and intentional, where every child is seen and valued for who they are. In larger schools, it's easy for children and teachers to become just another number. At Girasol, we notice the small moments, greet each child by name, and build real relationships that help them feel safe, confident, and connected.
Everything we do at Girasol is intentional, from how we prepare our classrooms to how we communicate with families. We want our community to feel like an extension of home, where trust, connection, and a shared sense of purpose guide every part of a child's journey.
When can my child begin at GMS?
Children may join us starting at 33 months and remain through age 5 or 6. Families with summer birthdays sometimes choose to wait before transitioning to kindergarten, giving their child extra time for social and emotional growth.
How do you manage your waitlist?
Our waitlist is not based on a strict "first come, first served" system. Instead, we look for families who are the best fit for our community and Montessori approach. We carefully consider readiness, timing, and whether GMS can meet the needs of the child and family.
Who teaches my child?
Our classroom guides hold Montessori credentials from AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) or AMS (American Montessori Society). In addition, all staff members hold Early Childhood Development qualifications. This ensures every adult in our school is well-prepared to support both the academic and social-emotional growth of your child.
Montessori & Language
Why do you group children of different ages together?
Mixed-age classrooms are a key aspect of the Montessori environment. At GMS, children ages 3–6 learn together in the same community. Younger children are inspired by observing older classmates, older children develop leadership, empathy, and confidence by guiding younger peers, and every child progresses at their own pace, free from the pressure of being rushed or held back. This intentional design nurtures independence, cooperation, and respect, while reflecting the way people learn and grow in real life.
How does independence look in a Montessori classroom?
Independence in Montessori doesn't mean working alone in isolation. It means children are trusted to choose meaningful work and follow their own rhythm. Through this practice, they build concentration, responsibility, and confidence.
Will my child still connect socially while working independently?
Absolutely. Socialization in Montessori is woven into the day, though it looks different than in traditional classrooms. Imagine an office: everyone has their own projects, yet they still chat, share meals, and collaborate. In the same way, our children work deeply on their chosen activities, share snack and lunchtime with friends, and move freely, ask questions, and engage with classmates. This balance reflects real life, nurturing both focus and connection.
Is your program Spanish immersion?
No, GMS is a bilingual program, not full immersion. Academic lessons (reading, writing, math, and other core work) are in English, while daily interactions, including greetings, songs, stories, and directions, happen naturally in Spanish. This balance ensures children are well-prepared when they transition out of our program, while still gaining the gift of bilingual exposure.
Why not full Spanish immersion?
Since there are limited Spanish immersion options available after preschool, a full immersion model could make the transition to English-based schools unnecessarily challenging. Our bilingual approach gives children strong academic foundations in English, natural joyful Spanish exposure woven into the day, and confidence to meet, and often exceed, kindergarten readiness standards.
How will my child benefit from Spanish at GMS?
Children gain exposure to Spanish through songs, greetings, stories, and conversation. While they may not leave fully fluent, they build a strong foundation, cultural awareness, and excitement for language learning that can last a lifetime.
Is Montessori a good fit if my child has challenging behavior?
Montessori can be a wonderful fit for every child. The approach is designed to honor individuality, nurture independence, and support social-emotional growth at each child's own pace. Our classrooms are built on freedom within limits, where children are trusted with independence, but always within clear structure and expectations. Guidance emphasizes respect, safety, and self-regulation, and teachers partner with families to support children, though Montessori is not a replacement for professional behavioral intervention if one is needed.
How does GMS handle challenging behavior?
We see behavior as part of a child's learning process. Our goal is to guide children with compassion, helping them build self-control, problem-solving skills, and respect for themselves, others, and the environment. GMS staff use strategies like clear limits, natural consequences, redirection, and modeling positive behavior. Safety is always our priority. In rare cases where a child's behavior poses a serious risk to safety, parents may be called to pick up their child.
Daily Life
What are your hours of operation?
GMS is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Children are always supervised during school hours.
For Half Day and Full Day programs, arrival is between 8:25–8:35 a.m. For All Day children, arrival is anytime between 8:00–8:35 a.m. Arriving within these windows allows children to settle peacefully and ensures the morning work cycle begins smoothly.
Is rest time included in the day?
Yes. For children attending five or more hours daily, a rest period is required by state licensing regulations. Children rest quietly for 30 minutes. If they do not fall asleep, they are invited to enjoy quiet activities. This pause gives children time to recharge, regulate, and process their learning.
How are meals handled?
Families pack a healthy, balanced lunch (no candy or treats). GMS provides nut-free snacks that meet USDA standards. If your child has allergies or dietary restrictions, snacks are provided from home.
What if my child has difficulty separating at drop-off?
It is very common and completely normal for children to experience some difficulty separating. It is a healthy sign of the strong bond you've built with your child. The best way to support your child is to offer a calm, confident goodbye, as children take cues from you. Keep your goodbye brief, as lingering can increase anxiety. Trust the process. With consistency, children learn that school is safe and that parents always return.
How do you connect with parents?
Conferences take place twice a year for deeper conversations, and teachers connect with families throughout the year as needed. We use the Procare app for newsletters, school updates, photos, direct messaging, and tuition management. We also love creating seasonal opportunities for families to connect and celebrate together.
How does GMS handle health and illness?
The well-being of our community is a priority. We follow Minnesota Department of Health and DHS guidelines, along with additional GMS policies to help reduce illness and protect children, families, and staff.
Enrollment & Tuition
What is the path to enrollment?
1. Tour the school to see if it feels like the right fit. 2. Application visit, where teachers gently observe your child's readiness, independence, social maturity, and ability to follow directions. 3. Acceptance comes with a welcome letter and clear next steps. 4. Orientation/Phase-In Week to ease your child into school routines.
What is the Orientation Phase-In Week?
All newly enrolled children take part in a required Orientation Phase-In Week. This gradual start helps children feel secure, build trust with teachers, and adjust to routines at a pace that respects their readiness. Skipping the Orientation Phase-In Week is not an option, as it is essential to helping your child begin their Montessori journey with trust and success.
What are your enrollment requirements?
Our program is designed for children who are fully toilet independent, meaning they wear cloth underwear (no pull-ups), managing bathroom needs confidently, and dressing themselves afterward. This supports safety, builds confidence, and allows learning to continue without interruption.
What documents are required at enrollment?
To complete enrollment, families must provide a current Health Summary form signed by the child's pediatrician, up-to-date Immunization Records, and the GMS Registration Form (provided by the school). Documents are required by Minnesota state licensing and must be submitted before your child's first day.
How are application payments handled?
Initial application and pre-enrollment fees are submitted only by check (either dropped off or mailed to the school).
Is a security deposit required?
Yes. We require a security deposit equal to one month of tuition to secure enrollment. Details about how the deposit is applied and handled are outlined in the Tuition Contract Agreement and the Parent Handbook provided at the time of enrollment.
How does the re-enrollment process work?
Each January, we begin the re-enrollment process for the following school year, which begins in August. Families confirm their child's spot by completing re-enrollment documents. This allows us to plan staffing and classroom placements, offer available spaces to new families in a timely way, and ensure a smooth transition into the next school year.
How can I find out about tuition rates?
For the most up-to-date tuition information, please contact us directly. We do not publish tuition on our website because rates may change, and we want families to always have the most accurate information.
How are tuition payments made?
Tuition billing is managed through the Procare app. Payments are due on the first of each month via ACH or check. Initial enrollment fees are paid by check (dropped off or mailed to the school).
Do you offer tuition discounts for absences or school closures?
Tuition is based on your child's reserved space in the program, not on daily attendance. For this reason, there are no discounts or refunds for family vacations, illness, or school closures (including holidays, weather closures, or other force majeure events). This policy ensures consistency for staffing, classroom planning, and the stability of the school community.
Is GMS a year-round program?
Yes! GMS operates as a year-round program with scheduled closures. Each spring, we release the calendar for the upcoming school year so families can plan ahead. Scheduled closures include winter and spring breaks, staff professional development days, national holidays, weather-related closings, and any state-ordered closures. This year-round continuity allows children to stay comfortable and engaged in their routines without the long summer break that often disrupts learning.
Montessori vs. Traditional Preschool: What the Environment Is Really Teaching Your Child
Written by Girasol Montessori
In many traditional preschool and childcare settings, walls are covered with bright colors, letters, numbers, alphabet charts, seasonal decorations, and motivational posters. For young children between the ages of zero and six, too much visual input can become visual noise. When the environment is overstimulating, children often find it harder to focus, harder to regulate their emotions, and harder to engage deeply with meaningful hands-on work.
In a Montessori classroom, the environment itself and the properly prepared adult are the most important aspects in the environment. Spaces are intentionally calm, orderly, and thoughtfully prepared. Materials are purposeful and displayed with care. Shelves are uncluttered. Wall decor is minimal and meaningful.
Montessori curriculum is integrated, meaning every material and activity is designed to develop multiple capacities simultaneously. Practical Life activities build concentration, fine motor control, hand dominance, sequencing, and the deep satisfaction of completing a real task independently. Sensorial work refines the senses and builds the child's ability to classify, differentiate, and bring order to their perception of the world. Language development runs through everything. Mathematics builds understanding from the ground up using materials that make abstract concepts physically tangible before any symbols are introduced. Cultural studies introduce children to geography, history, biology, botany, zoology, art, and music as a connected whole.
At Girasol Montessori School in Minneapolis, the full Montessori experience comes to life in a bilingual English and Spanish environment for children ages 33 months to 6 years, near 50th and France in Southwest Minneapolis.
Finding Your Place in Minneapolis: A Guide for Relocating Families With Young Children
Written by Girasol Montessori
The Southwest Minneapolis neighborhoods of Fulton, Linden Hills, Armatage, Kenny, and Lynnhurst have long been among the most sought-after family destinations in the Twin Cities. At the center of it all sits the 50th and France corridor, a beloved neighborhood hub that has become the social heartbeat for families in the area. Lake Harriet is minutes away with a walking and biking path, a bandshell for free summer concerts, and a rose garden magical in June.
Families relocating to Minneapolis frequently explore Montessori early because Montessori environments prioritize emotional security and self-regulation alongside academic development. The calm, predictable rhythm of a Montessori classroom gives children a stable foundation when the rest of life is in flux.
Girasol Montessori School was founded in 2019 by Sharon Estrada, located steps from 50th and France in the Fulton neighborhood of Southwest Minneapolis. Girasol offers a bilingual English and Spanish Montessori program for children ages 33 months to 6 years, serving families from Fulton, Linden Hills, Edina, St. Louis Park, and surrounding Southwest Minneapolis neighborhoods.
Montessori in the Modern World: Why It Matters More Than Ever, and What It Has to Do With STEM
Written by Girasol Montessori
Maria Montessori was first and foremost a scientist. She was the first woman to earn a medical degree in Italy, graduating from the University of Rome in 1896. Through careful, systematic observation of children, she discovered that when given the right environment and materials, children could concentrate deeply, work independently, and achieve remarkable things. The materials she developed, the sandpaper letters, the pink tower, the bead chains, the moveable alphabet, were discovered through observation and refined through decades of iteration.
A 2017 study published in the journal Science found that Montessori children significantly outperformed their peers in executive function, reading, math, and social understanding. Montessori is one of the most STEM-aligned educational approaches in existence because it teaches children to think like scientists from the very beginning. Three-year-olds sorting geometric shapes build spatial reasoning. Four-year-olds counting beads develop embodied mathematical understanding. Five-year-olds observing plants practice scientific inquiry: observation, documentation, hypothesis.
At Girasol Montessori in Minneapolis, these principles come to life in a bilingual English and Spanish environment near 50th and France, for children ages 33 months to 6 years.
Girasol Montessori School — Serving Families in Southwest Minneapolis and Surrounding Neighborhoods
Girasol Montessori School is located at 4800 Ewing Avenue South in Minneapolis, Minnesota, just steps from 50th and France in the heart of Southwest Minneapolis. We serve families from Fulton, Linden Hills, Edina, St. Louis Park, the Lake Harriet area, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, and surrounding Southwest Minneapolis neighborhoods.
A Preschool for Families Moving to Minneapolis
Families relocating to Minneapolis — whether from across the country or internationally — frequently choose Girasol Montessori for their young children. Our bilingual English and Spanish Montessori program offers a calm, intentional, and welcoming environment that makes transitions easier for children and families new to the area. Located near 50th and France, one of the most family-friendly destinations in Southwest Minneapolis, Girasol is easy to find and close to where many relocating families choose to live.
Family-Friendly Neighborhoods Near Girasol
Girasol draws families from some of the most desirable family neighborhoods in the Minneapolis area. Fulton and Linden Hills are walkable, community-oriented neighborhoods known for their parks, local businesses, and strong sense of belonging. Edina families frequently choose Girasol given its proximity to the Edina border and easy access via the 50th and France corridor. Families near Lake Harriet, in the Fulton and Linden Hills neighborhoods, appreciate being walking distance from both the lake and Girasol's campus.
Why Families Relocating to Southwest Minneapolis Choose Girasol
When families move to Minneapolis with young children, they are looking for more than just childcare. They want community, values, and an environment that reflects their hopes for their child's development. Girasol Montessori offers exactly that — a bilingual, Montessori-certified, small-scale school where children are known by name, families are welcomed as partners, and the educational philosophy prioritizes independence, confidence, and joy in learning.
Neighborhoods Served
Girasol Montessori primarily serves families living in or near: Southwest Minneapolis (zip codes 55410, 55419), Linden Hills (55410), Fulton neighborhood Minneapolis, Edina (55424, 55416), St. Louis Park (55416), Lake Harriet area, 50th and France corridor, Eden Prairie, and Minnetonka.
Bilingual Preschool Near Edina
For families living in Edina or searching for a bilingual preschool near Edina, Girasol Montessori is one of the closest and most highly regarded options. Located just over the Minneapolis border near 50th and France, Girasol is minutes from Edina and offers a unique bilingual English and Spanish Montessori education not available elsewhere in the immediate area.
Raising Young Children Near 50th and France
50th and France is a beloved neighborhood destination for Southwest Minneapolis families. With parks, walkable streets, local businesses, and a strong community feel, it's one of the most sought-after areas for families with young children. Girasol Montessori School is located steps from this neighborhood hub, making it a natural choice for families who value both community and educational quality.
Frequently Asked Questions — Girasol Montessori School
About Our School
What is the heart of Girasol Montessori School?
At GMS, our highest priority is creating a kind and loving environment where every child feels safe, respected, and valued. We believe that social-emotional growth is the foundation of all learning. When children feel secure and supported, they are able to build trust in themselves and in others, develop resilience, confidence, and self-regulation, and fully engage in the academic and social opportunities around them. By focusing on the whole child, mind, body, and heart, we nurture not only capable learners, but also compassionate individuals who are inspired to become confident global citizens.
What makes Girasol different from larger schools or childcare centers?
We stay intentionally small — a boutique Montessori school where children, families, and staff truly know one another. Everything we do at Girasol is intentional, from how we prepare our classrooms to how we communicate with families. We want our community to feel like an extension of home, where trust, connection, and a shared sense of purpose guide every part of a child's journey.
When can my child begin at Girasol Montessori School?
Children may join us starting at 33 months and remain through age 5 or 6. Families with summer birthdays sometimes choose to wait before transitioning to kindergarten, giving their child extra time for social and emotional growth.
How do you manage your waitlist?
Our waitlist is not based on a strict first come, first served system. Instead, we look for families who are the best fit for our community and Montessori approach. We carefully consider readiness, timing, and whether GMS can meet the needs of the child and family.
Who teaches at Girasol Montessori School?
Our classroom guides hold Montessori credentials from AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) or AMS (American Montessori Society). In addition, all staff members hold Early Childhood Development qualifications. This ensures every adult in our school is well-prepared to support both the academic and social-emotional growth of your child.
Montessori and Language
Why do you group children of different ages together?
Mixed-age classrooms are a key aspect of the Montessori environment. At GMS, children ages 3–6 learn together. Younger children are inspired by observing older classmates, older children develop leadership and empathy by guiding younger peers, and every child progresses at their own pace, free from the pressure of being rushed or held back.
How does independence look in a Montessori classroom?
Independence in Montessori means children are trusted to choose meaningful work and follow their own rhythm. Through this practice, they build concentration, responsibility, and confidence.
Will my child connect socially while working independently?
Absolutely. Socialization in Montessori is woven into the day. Children work deeply on their chosen activities, share snack and lunchtime with friends, and move freely, ask questions, and engage with classmates. This balance nurtures both focus and connection.
Is your program Spanish immersion?
No, GMS is a bilingual program, not full immersion. Academic lessons (reading, writing, math, and other core work) are in English, while daily interactions including greetings, songs, stories, and directions happen naturally in Spanish. This balance ensures children are well-prepared when they transition out of our program, while still gaining the gift of bilingual exposure.
Why not full Spanish immersion?
Since there are limited Spanish immersion options available after preschool, a full immersion model could make the transition to English-based schools unnecessarily challenging. Our bilingual approach gives children strong academic foundations in English, natural joyful Spanish exposure woven into the day, and confidence to meet and often exceed kindergarten readiness standards.
How will my child benefit from Spanish at Girasol?
Children gain exposure to Spanish through songs, greetings, stories, and conversation. While they may not leave fully fluent, they build a strong foundation, cultural awareness, and excitement for language learning that can last a lifetime.
Is Montessori a good fit if my child has challenging behavior?
Montessori can be a wonderful fit for every child. The approach is designed to honor individuality, nurture independence, and support social-emotional growth at each child's own pace. Our classrooms are built on freedom within limits, where children are trusted with independence, but always within clear structure and expectations.
How does Girasol handle challenging behavior?
We see behavior as part of a child's learning process. Our goal is to guide children with compassion, helping them build self-control, problem-solving skills, and respect for themselves, others, and the environment. GMS staff use strategies like clear limits, natural consequences, redirection, and modeling positive behavior. Safety is always our priority.
Daily Life
What are your hours of operation?
GMS is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Children are always supervised during school hours.
What program options does Girasol Montessori offer?
Half Day: 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Full Day: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. All Day: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
When is morning drop-off?
For Half Day and Full Day programs, arrival is between 8:25 and 8:35 a.m. For All Day children, arrival is anytime between 8:00 and 8:35 a.m.
Is rest time included in the day?
Yes. For children attending five or more hours daily, a rest period is required by state licensing regulations. Children rest quietly for 30 minutes. If they do not fall asleep, they are invited to enjoy quiet activities.
How are meals handled at Girasol Montessori?
Families pack a healthy, balanced lunch (no candy or treats). GMS provides nut-free snacks that meet USDA standards. If your child has allergies or dietary restrictions, snacks are provided from home.
What if my child has difficulty separating at drop-off?
It is very common and completely normal for children to experience some difficulty separating. The best way to support your child is to offer a calm, confident goodbye, keep your goodbye brief, and trust the process. With consistency, children learn that school is safe and that parents always return.
How does Girasol connect with parents?
Conferences take place twice a year for deeper conversations, and teachers connect with families throughout the year as needed. We use the Procare app for newsletters, school updates, photos, direct messaging, and tuition management.
How does Girasol handle health and illness?
The well-being of our community is a priority. We follow Minnesota Department of Health and DHS guidelines, along with additional GMS policies to help reduce illness and protect children, families, and staff.
Enrollment and Tuition
What is the path to enrollment at Girasol Montessori?
1. Tour the school to see if it feels like the right fit. 2. Application visit, where teachers gently observe your child's readiness, independence, social maturity, and ability to follow directions. 3. Acceptance comes with a welcome letter and clear next steps. 4. Orientation Phase-In Week to ease your child into school routines.
What is the Orientation Phase-In Week?
All newly enrolled children take part in a required Orientation Phase-In Week. This gradual start helps children feel secure, build trust with teachers, and adjust to routines at a pace that respects their readiness.
What are the enrollment requirements at Girasol Montessori?
Our program is designed for children who are fully toilet independent, meaning they wear cloth underwear (no pull-ups), manage bathroom needs confidently, and dress themselves afterward.
What documents are required at enrollment?
Families must provide a current Health Summary form signed by the child's pediatrician, up-to-date Immunization Records, and the GMS Registration Form. Documents are required by Minnesota state licensing and must be submitted before your child's first day.
Is a security deposit required at Girasol Montessori?
Yes. We require a security deposit equal to one month of tuition to secure enrollment. Details are outlined in the Tuition Contract Agreement and Parent Handbook provided at the time of enrollment.
How does the re-enrollment process work?
Each January, we begin the re-enrollment process for the following school year, which begins in August. Families confirm their child's spot by completing re-enrollment documents.
How do I find out about tuition rates at Girasol Montessori?
For the most up-to-date tuition information, please contact us directly at info@girasolmontessorimn.com or call (952) 222-7605. We do not publish tuition on our website because rates may change and we want families to always have the most accurate information.
How are tuition payments made at Girasol Montessori?
Tuition billing is managed through the Procare app. Payments are due on the first of each month via ACH or check. Initial enrollment fees are paid by check dropped off or mailed to the school.
Do you offer tuition discounts for absences or school closures?
Tuition is based on your child's reserved space in the program, not on daily attendance. For this reason, there are no discounts or refunds for family vacations, illness, or school closures.
Is Girasol Montessori a year-round program?
Yes, GMS operates as a year-round program with scheduled closures including winter and spring breaks, staff professional development days, national holidays, and weather-related closings. Each spring we release the calendar for the upcoming school year so families can plan ahead.
