As the only fully American Montessori School-accredited Montessori school in Austin, Mariposa’s infancy through ninth grade programs offer a developmentally tailored approach to learning that fosters independence, curiosity and confidence.
The school’s newest addition—the secondary program for grades 7–9—builds on this foundation, giving students the opportunity to apply their learning in more complex, real-world ways while preparing them for high school and beyond.
What makes Montessori different?
Montessori schools follow a child-centered philosophy developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, emphasizing hands-on learning, independence and self-directed exploration. Unlike traditional schools with strict schedules, Montessori classrooms allow students to move freely, choose tasks and learn at their own pace.
“The goal is to create students who have agency, who are freethinkers and who find joy in learning,” Schwehm said.
Montessori programs integrate subjects through projects and real-world experiences, offering a rigorous academic curriculum while also supporting social and emotional learning. Small class sizes and individualized guidance help students grow academically, socially and emotionally, preparing them for lifelong success.
Secondary Program: real-world learning
The secondary program serves students in grades 7-9 focusing on abstract thinking, social responsibility and real-world application of knowledge. This stage emphasizes developing leadership, collaboration and critical problem-solving skills.
Students explore central concepts each quarter, integrating subjects such as mathematics, language arts, science and social studies through hands-on, project-based learning.
Field experiences, including outdoor excursions, overnight trips, community projects and campus stewardship activities, provide opportunities to apply knowledge in meaningful ways. Students also continue developing independence, self-direction and executive functioning skills, preparing them to transition confidently to high school and beyond.
Social and emotional learning
Social and emotional development is a key focus at Mariposa Montessori School.
“Students learn how to manage emotions, collaborate with peers and solve conflicts respectfully,” Schwehm said.
Small class sizes and hands-on, project-based learning help students build confidence, empathy and interpersonal skills, ensuring they are prepared academically, socially and emotionally for the next stage of their education.
Why choose Mariposa Montessori?
Mariposa Montessori School blends rigorous academics with social and emotional development, offering students a well-rounded education. Key benefits include:
- Campus and community: a spacious, welcoming campus with farmland, farm animals and a garden giving it a “village in a city” environment, according to Schwehm
- Balanced learning: integrates challenging academics with social and emotional growth
- Hands-on, project-based curriculum: lessons connect subjects like math, science and history to real-world experiences
- Small class sizes: low student-to-teacher ratios allow for personalized guidance
- Long-term teacher relationships: three-year classroom cycles build confidence and strong connections.
- Leadership and collaboration: students develop independence, responsibility and other important skills necessary for success
Take the next step
Families interested in the secondary programs at Mariposa Montessori School are encouraged to explore the school and fill out the application online.
Visit the school’s website to schedule a tour or learn more about programs.
The above story was produced by Community Impact's Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel, with information solely provided by the local business as part of its "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
