Culver City
The original · Est. 1986 · Ages 2–1st grade
Our flagship. Teachers with up to 30 years here, daily Mandarin and Spanish, generations of returning families.
Best for: the most experienced classrooms
Explore Culver CityIndividualized Education
How is learning individualized at Montessori Academy?
Each child at Montessori Academy follows an individualized learning plan. Teachers observe and keep detailed written records for every child, tailoring lessons as skills are mastered — so a 3-year-old reading early moves ahead without waiting for the group.
1
Observation → Written Records → Tailored Lessons
Our AMS and AMI-certified teachers observe each child daily, document their progress in writing, and introduce the next lesson only when the child is truly ready. No child is held back by the pace of the group, and none is left behind.
2
Why do children learn Mandarin and Spanish here from age 2?
Children at Montessori Academy receive Mandarin and Spanish instruction every day from age 2, because 50% of a child’s language-learning capacity develops in the first few years of life and 30% more by age eight (Kotulak, 1996). This isn’t a weekly add-on — it’s woven into the daily environment. Culver City and West Adams offer both; Downey adds French and Tagalog.
3
What is the student-teacher ratio?
Classrooms at Montessori Academy maintain a 1:5 preschool ratio — roughly half the California licensing maximum. Typical class size is 1:8. Smaller groups mean each child is seen, known, and taught at their own pace. All three campuses are currently open with available spaces.
4
Montessori vs. free TK in California
Free Transitional Kindergarten (TK) follows the state curriculum at a fixed pace, for 4–5 year olds only. Montessori Academy offers individualized learning from age 2, daily language immersion, and a 1:5 ratio — all year round. We also offer TK within our program, so you don’t have to choose.
Ruhi Khan
Director
A Word from Our Director
“Many of the parents touring today were sent by their neighbors, their coworkers, their sisters — and a few attended these classrooms themselves as children, which is my favorite kind of full circle. My promise hasn’t changed in all that time: your child will be known by name, taught at their own pace, and loved while they learn. Come watch a classroom in session. That’s the moment most families decide.”Meet our full staff
