Admissions FAQs

APPLICATION PROCESS

What is the admissions process? 

The admissions process typically includes attending a school tour, submitting an application, attending a child observation (for students enrolling in the Children’s House only), receiving an acceptance letter, and finally confirming enrollment through registration and payment of the enrollment fee. Please visit our Admissions Process page for more information.

Are there any prerequisites for admission?
The Toddler House program requires students to walk independently and climb steps (to reach the sink for hand washing). The Children’s House program requires students to be toilet-trained. The admissions team can provide more details on prerequisites.

I attended a school tour. Now what?

After attending a school tour, if your child is three or older, s/he will have to participate in a child’s visit. After the child’s visit, if you consider our school the right environment for your child, we recommend applying. For children younger than 3, spaces often fill out quickly. Thus, we recommend applying as soon as possible.

What is the Child’s Visit?

The child’s visit typically lasts 30 minutes and occurs in one of our children’s house classrooms. During the visit, your child can engage in Montessori activities, allowing parents to observe their child in a Montessori environment. This is not a formal interview or a test; instead, it is a chance to familiarize your child with the school and for both parents and the school to determine if The Springs is the right fit for your child.

Why is the Child’s Visit for Children’s House students only?

We recognize that younger children (toddlers and younger) may not yet benefit from a classroom visit unless they apply for an immediate opening. Instead, we encourage parents to take advantage of Home Visits offered by our Toddler teachers during the summer and attend the Back-to-School Open House just before the school year begins, ensuring the classroom is fresh in the child’s mind.

I’m moving and can’t do an in-person tour or a child visit. Now what?

We understand that an in-person visit may not be possible for families who are not in our area. We offer virtual tour options to help you explore our school remotely and ask any questions. Additionally, we can arrange a child's visit before the term begins when you are in the area. Please contact us to discuss the best options for your family.

When should I apply for my child’s enrollment?

Applications are accepted year-round; however, we recommend applying early as spaces are limited and often fill quickly, especially in our Toddler House program.

Is there an application fee?
A non-refundable application fee of $150 is required when submitting your application. You can pay the application fee through PayPal at this handle: @woodsmontessori.

How does the waitlist work?
When our programs reach full capacity, we operate on a waitpool and notify families if spaces become available.

What is a waitpool?
A waitpool is similar to a waitlist. However, it allows The Woods to consider all applicants in the pool rather than operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Admission decisions from the waitpool are based on various factors, such as class composition, age balance, or other enrollment priorities.

Can my child enroll mid-year?
Mid-year enrollment is possible if space is available. Tuition will be prorated based on the number of weeks remaining in the school year.

What documents are required for enrollment?
Required documents generally include a completed application form, the child’s birth certificate or passport, the Virginia Health form with immunization records, completed and signed by the child’s doctor, Allergy Action Plan, Authorized Pick-Up List, and Emergency Contacts.

Are siblings given priority for admission?
Yes, sibling priority is given during the admissions process, though spaces are not guaranteed.

Can I request a specific teacher?

Yes, parents are welcome to share their teacher preferences. However, classroom placements are determined by The Woods, and while we consider these requests, we cannot guarantee them. Our primary goal is to create well-balanced classrooms in both age and gender.