Montessori education is an educational approach developed by Italian physician and educator Maria Montessori. It is characterized by an emphasis on independence, freedom within limits, and respect for a child’s natural psychological, physical, and social development.

All students who live in Vancouver are eligible to attend the Montessori Alternative programs at Tyee, Maple Grove and Renfrew Elementary schools. 

Montessori Admission - Kindergarten

Families can apply for up to three choice programs through an online application process. Please refer to the Kindergarten Choice programs for application procedures and dates.

Montessori Admission - Grades 1 to 7

Each grade level typically has a waitlist. If more applications are received during the priority application period (November 1^st ­­­­­‑ January 31^st) than spaces available at the school, a draw will occur with applications waitlisted in the order drawn.  Applications received after January 31^st will be waitlisted below priority period applications, in the order received by the school. 

Further information on the programs is available by visiting Tyee Elementary, Maple Grove Elementary and Renfrew Community Elementary.

Registration Information

• Choice Program Information Sessions
• Kindergarten registration general information
• General registration information

Please Note: Grade 1-7 District Choice Program applications are submitted to schools directly through a paper form, please download the form here.