Business Details
Authentic Montessori Education in Talent, OR
At Butterfly House Montessori, we are dedicated to nurturing the holistic development of children through the authentic Montessori method, emphasizing Peace Education and environmental stewardship. Our program is designed to cultivate a lifelong love of learning by fostering independence, creativity, and critical thinking in a supportive, eco-conscious environment. Our team of AMS-certified educators brings decades of combined experience in Montessori pedagogy, ensuring each child receives individualized attention tailored to their unique developmental journey.We integrate hands-on materials, nature exploration, and second-language introduction to create a rich, interdisciplinary curriculum that prepares children to become compassionate global citizens. As a small, family-oriented community, we prioritize intimate relationships between teachers, students, and families, maintaining rigorous standards of excellence while staying true to Maria Montessori's vision of education as a path to human potential.
Services
Montessori Preschool
Elementary Program
Summer Camp
Peace Education
Eco-Friendly Curriculum
Highlights and features
- Our director holds an AMS credential from an accredited Montessori program
- We implement a patented Peace Education curriculum fostering empathy and conflict resolution
- All classrooms use eco-friendly, child-safe materials and practices
- Teachers provide individualized Montessori lessons based on each child's developmental needs
- We maintain a 1:8 teacher-student ratio for personalized attention
Associations and certifications
- American Montessori Society
Services
Montessori Preschool
Our Montessori Preschool program for ages 3-6 uses hands-on materials to develop foundational skills in reading, mathematics, and science. Children build independence through self-directed learning while exploring art, STEM, and second-language introduction. The curriculum emphasizes Peace Education, fostering social-emotional growth and environmental stewardship in a nature-rich setting.
Elementary Program
The Lower Elementary program (grades K-3) combines Montessori Cosmic Education with individualized instruction. Students engage in interdisciplinary studies of history, science, and culture through hands-on projects and group collaboration. The curriculum develops critical thinking while maintaining focus on character development and community connection through practical life applications.
Summer Camp
Our themed summer camps explore global geography and cultures through immersive activities. Weekly programs include continent-specific projects, outdoor exploration, and creative arts. Children develop social skills through group activities while maintaining Montessori principles of hands-on learning and environmental connection in a structured summer setting.
Peace Education
Integrated throughout all programs, Peace Education teaches empathy, conflict resolution, and community stewardship. Children learn mindfulness practices and character development through daily interactions, guided lessons, and practical life applications. This approach cultivates emotional intelligence and social responsibility within the classroom community and beyond.
Eco-Friendly Curriculum
Our sustainability-focused curriculum incorporates nature study, gardening, and eco-conscious practices. Children learn environmental stewardship through hands-on outdoor activities, weather-appropriate play, and classroom lessons using natural materials. The program emphasizes respect for all living things and practical ways to care for the planet through daily Montessori activities.
People
Nicole Edney
Owner/Director/Primary Head Teacher
With 13 years of teaching experience and an AMS Montessori credential since 2014, Nicole specializes in early childhood education and Peace Education. She integrates American Sign Language into daily learning and focuses on environmental stewardship.
Maizy Strickland
Primary Co-Teacher
A certified Montessori educator with 4 years at Butterfly House, Maizy brings expertise in child development and martial arts. She creates engaging learning experiences while fostering joyful classroom interactions through her Rogue Valley roots.
Sheri Nelsen
Teacher Trainer/Co-Teacher
Trained by a direct disciple of Maria Montessori, Sheri offers decades of experience from running her own Montessori school. Her expertise in both Primary and Elementary levels provides valuable mentorship to the teaching team.
Dakota Edney
Primary Assistant Teacher
With 3 years in childcare and 4 years designing science-based summer camps, Dakota specializes in engaging children through hands-on science activities involving animals, robotics, and engineering projects.
Avery Edney
Teacher's Aide
New to the classroom but experienced in summer camp programming, Avery brings creativity through fiber arts and movement activities. She focuses on making learning imaginative and joyful through artistic expression.
Questions
What ages does Butterfly House Montessori serve?
We serve children aged 3-6 in our Primary program and grades K-3 in our Lower Elementary program, following Oregon's grade definitions.
Is the school open year-round?
Our academic calendar follows the local school district schedule with summer camp programs available June-August.
What are the daily program hours?
Primary program runs 9:00am-12:30pm with extended care options from 8:00am-3:00pm. Lower Elementary operates 8:00am-2:30pm.
Do you offer financial assistance?
We accept ERDC payments and offer a scholarship program providing 5-20% tuition assistance for qualifying families.
How do I schedule a school tour?
Contact Nicole Edney directly via phone or email to schedule a tour during our spring visiting period.
What makes your Montessori program unique?
Our program combines AMS-certified instruction with Peace Education, environmental stewardship, and a 1:8 teacher-student ratio in a nature-integrated curriculum.
