At Novi Northville Montessori Center, education is designed to start with compassion and grow through a strong Montessori foundation that supports each child’s unique path of discovery.
School leaders focus on academic excellence as well as character, confidence and independence — skills they see as essential for success in and out of the classroom.
Through the Montessori method, children are empowered to take ownership of their learning in a setting that honors their pace, respects their potential and celebrates their growth. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 8:1, NNMC offers a personalized learning experience.
“We put in a lot of one-on-one care,” says School Administrator Navmeet Dhillon. “Our goal is for children to start enjoying learning at a younger age and to help them get ready for the world ahead of them.”
The school’s classrooms follow the hallmark Montessori model, with mixed-age groups, credentialed Montessori teachers and hands-on materials that encourage independence and critical thinking.
An acclaimed kindergarten leadership program
Children as young as 4, and even Early 5s, are supported in progressing at their own pace, ensuring that no one is ever held back, Dhillon says. And for those who complete NNMC’s acclaimed Kindergarten Leadership Program, the transition into first grade is seamless, built on a solid academic and emotional foundation.
The Leadership Program, in particular, sets NNMC apart, adds Dhillon. Designed specifically for kindergartners, this advanced program includes core academic subjects like reading, math and grammar, along with Spanish, science, geography and STEM.
Children receive additional one-on-one time with teachers, helping them develop not just knowledge, but leadership skills and independence.
A welcoming environment with plenty of enrichment
NNMC also takes pride in its welcoming, diverse culture. “We are a small school that operates like a family,” Dhillon says. Many families return with younger siblings or recommend the school by word of mouth, a testament to the trust they place in the school’s care.
Respect is a core value here: Students are taught to “speak softly, walk slowly and treat each other kindly,” creating a calm, inclusive atmosphere where students come first.
Learning isn’t limited to the classroom either. Weekly music and Spanish classes, engaging art and history lessons and nature walks that often include sightings of local wildlife like frogs, turkeys and butterflies add richness to students’ daily experience.
For added enrichment, optional after-school programs include dance and gymnastics.
Care that extends beyond the classroom
As part of its emphasis on healthy habits, NNMC also serves fresh, mostly vegetarian hot lunches every day, prepared by its sister daycare-focused school, Minto’s Casa in Farmington Hills. This partnership not only ensures quality meals, but reflects the school’s broader commitment to community and collaboration, Dhillon says.
NNMC prides itself on being a place where children are known, nurtured and prepared for what’s ahead: academically, socially and emotionally.
“Our high standard of care and learning really do speak for themselves,” says Dhillon. “We are really proud to help guide children to their success.”
This content is sponsored by Novi Northville Montessori Center. To learn more, visit the Novi Northville Montessori Center website — and discover more metro Detroit schools in the Best Schools Guide.