.png)
.png)
Montessori Private Academy (MPA) was founded in 1983 by a group of motivated parents desiring to provide an education that fosters self-motivated, rigorous growth for children in all areas of their development-- cognitive, emotional, social, and physical. Consequently, Montessori education was the realization of that dream. Thankfully, their hope came to fruition and MPA has been successfully offering a Montessori education to children from diverse backgrounds in the Rockford area for 40 years.
Our extensive history has generated a strong track record of high-quality Montessori teaching. As an accredited AMS (American Montessori Society) school, MPA adheres to high standards addressing quality teacher training, beautiful and challenging classroom materials, pertinent parent education, and fiscally solid systems. MPA is a not-for-profit corporation governed by a Board of Trustees, including parents, our Head of School, and community members.
Conveniently located on Rockford’s east side, MPA is close to I-90, by-pass 20, and 20 miles from the Wisconsin border. MPA attracts students from Winnebago, Boone, and Rock County, as well as other surrounding communities.
The Montessori Approach
At the heart of Montessori education is a simple truth: children learn best through hands-on exploration, at their own pace. Dr. Maria Montessori's decades of research revealed that young minds are naturally driven to explore and absorb information through their senses. Birth through age 6 represents the most critical period of brain development—a time when children need movement, tactile engagement, and rich sensory experiences.Dr. Montessori's insights led to the development of hands-on materials that remain central to our classrooms today.
Toddler & Early Childhood (Ages 2-6)
Children absorb information through their senses in a carefully prepared environment designed to foster independence and confidence.
Elementary I (Grades 1-3)
Children develop strong foundations in reading, writing, mathematics, language, and cultural studies while deepening social connections and understanding how concepts relate to one another.
Upper Elementary (Grades 4-6)
With roots established, children expand into rich areas of study: history, science, advanced mathematics, art, music, and literature. They develop self-discipline and intellectual curiosity through community service and independent research.
Middle School (Grades 7-8)
Adolescents engage in project-based learning and real-world problem-solving to develop leadership, intellectual independence, and a sense of purpose in their community and the world.
Montessori Private Academy (MPA) is a child-centered Montessori school. Our Mission is to prepare the whole child intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically, not only for the child’s years in school, but throughout life. As the child matures, his Montessori education and experiences will help him become a productive member of the global community.
The Core Goals of an Montessori education:
Multi-sensory learning through hands-on materials in every curriculum area, leading to a strong understanding of the process and integration of information.
Independent thought and actions are learned through accepting responsibility and based on respect for the child’s capabilities and desire to be independent.
Formation of positive social relationships based on daily interactions with other members of a diverse school community.
A strong understanding of the child’s responsibility as an agent of his own education.
Respect for oneself as both a learner and teacher, at each level of development.
Mary Sue Reutebuch has showcased her passion for education, Montessori principles, and community building throughout the last 30-plus years via her work within educational organizations as a teacher, director, advisor, consultant, and mentor to peers and school leadership teams. Since entering the Montessori world in 1990, she has consistently honed her craft in fostering the Montessori principles in the lives of students and their families. Her past roles have afforded her extensive experience in developing and implementing Montessori curricula and programs with organizations, teachers, and parents.
She has obtained multiple educational degrees and certifications, including a pre-primary Montessori certification through MECA (Montessori Education Centers Associated), a Bachelor of Science in Education Communication from Ohio University, and a Master’s of Arts in Pastoral Theology from St. Meinrad College/Seminary.
View our staff members and discover what makes them a special addition to MPA.
Learn More