Myrtle Farm bases its philosophy and methods on the approach developed by Maria Montessori, an Italian physician who was a pioneer in the field of early childhood education. She based her program on careful observation of the needs and interests of children who were free to choose among a variety of activities in a carefully prepared environment.

Myrtle Farm Montessori has occupied this site since 1989. The school was founded by owner/director Krista Ericson and Ellen Docili, two highly experienced Montessori educators. Under their leadership, the main purpose-built school building, farm grounds, and gardens were established. A committed Montessori leader, Krista went on to become an important driving force in the team that ultimately led to the creation of the only public Montessori Elementary school in our local area, Eagle Peak Montessori Charter school.

Stemming from Krista’s role as both an adult and child educator, the current Director Maria Alvarez was introduced to the special place that is Myrtle Farm. She had experienced the school from multiple perspectives, initially discovering the school as a family member when her younger brother attended. As Maria found herself becoming disillusioned with the traditional educational approach, she updated her college education major to include an emphasis in Montessori education. As an adult learner in the St Mary’s teacher training program, she benefited directly from Krista’s extensive Montessori experience. When the property became available in 2013, Maria was thrilled to continue offering the highest quality Montessori preschool program possible in this unique environment.