◈ Homepage — http://www.marinmountainschool.orgParent Resources Donate marin mountain school About Us Programs Admissions Community Visit Us Your child begins an important journey of self-discovery in preschool. At the Mountain School, our experienced Waldorf-certified teachers create an environment that fosters self-reliance and engages your child’s imagination through a daily rhythm of activities in the classroom. Our program helps children build their confidence and lays a foundation for future success, both academically and socially. For more information, or to schedule a private tour (October through January), please contact: [email protected] “The self-confidence, social awareness, and emotional skills our son developed at the Mountain School were immediately obvious as he transitioned into kindergarten. We’re excited for our daughter Kate to soon enter kindergarten with the same set of tools.” ~ Christa Gatewood, Max and Kate’s mom “The Mountain School has always offered children a rich curriculum that allows for exploration and the nurturing of joyful learning. These students easily transition into elementary school and consistently do well through the elementary years.” ~Jeff Escabar, former Director of Admissions, Marin Country Day School, current Head of School, Marin Preparatory School “We’re so grateful Tahlequah had an extra year at the Mountain School — we see the benefits every day in her ability to focus, her internal confidence, and the kindness she demonstrates with her peers in kindergarten.” ~ Sandra Smith, Tahlequah and Alyeska’s mom When we first visited the Mountain School, we were struck by how thoughtfully the teachers manage the children and their daily transitions through songs and storytelling. Later, as parents at the school we were amazed at the depth of insight Gale would share with us, helping us be more in tune with Sophie’s development. ~ Lyle Poindexter, Sophie and Alice’s dad “How incredible to experience Noah grow into himself at the Mountain School. Miss Kimi has guided him (and us) in learning how to embrace his emotional and physical being. We are really seeing the comfort in his own skin, his inner confidence and empathy blossom.” ~ Caroline Errington, Noah’s mom “The self-confidence, social awareness, and emotional skills our son developed at the Mountain School were immediately obvious as he transitioned into kindergarten. We’re excited for our daughter Kate to soon enter kindergarten with the same set of tools.” ~ Christa Gatewood, Max and Kate’s mom “The Mountain School has always offered children a rich curriculum that allows for exploration and the nurturing of joyful learning. These students easily transition into elementary school and consistently do well through the elementary years.” ~Jeff Escabar, former Director of Admissions, Marin Country Day School, current Head of School, Marin Preparatory School Prev Next THE DAILY RHYTHM 9 Owls' Nest Optional afternoon “Owls’ Nest” program from 1 – 5:45 pm. Daily, monthly or yearly sign-ups. Program Details » 1 Circle Time Joyful song and movement fostering form, focus, and social cohesion. Program Details » 2 Free Play Activities that draw on a child’s own imagination such as dressing up, playing house, building structures, and role-playing using natural toys. Program Details » 3 Arts and Crafts Artistic expression through watercolor painting, beeswax modeling, baking and cooking, and other handicrafts. Program Details » 4 Clean Up Practical tasks such as tidying the classroom and hand washing made fun when singing together. Program Details » 5 Snack Delicious homemade, wholesome, organic, and vegetarian snacks prepared with the children’s help. Program Details » 6 Outdoor Play Fresh air and outdoor fun in the playground and regular neighborhood walks that support a connection to nature. Program Details » 7 Storytelling Engaging tales from the folk and fairy tale traditions, often including a puppet show or play in which the children participate. Program Details » 8 Lunch Eaten together at a communal table, with a helping of conversation and a show of gratitude. Program Details » 9 Owls' Nest Optional afternoon “Owls’ Nest” program from 1 – 5:45 pm. Daily, monthly or yearly sign-ups. Program Details » 1 Circle Time Joyful song and movement fostering form, focus, and social cohesion. Program Details » 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 ◈ Interior Pages — 14 pages crawledSchool Calendar - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate School Calendar We follow an August-to-June school-year calendar with (optional) 4-6 weeks of summer camp June-July. School opens in late August and ends in mid-June. We close in observance of the following holidays*: Labor Day Monday in September Columbus Day Monday holiday in October Thanksgiving First day in November following Halloween One week in November over Thanksgiving Holiday, Monday through Friday Winter Break Two weeks in December/January; no camp offered Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday Monday holiday in January Presidents’ Day Week Mid-February; camp offered Tuesday-Friday Spring Break One week in April Memorial Day Monday holiday in May *Other holidays for teacher development.         EVENTS Learn more about the Mountain School at these events that are open to the public. Current parents may visit Parent Resources to view this year’s calendar. Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Overview - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Overview The Mountain School was founded in 1990 by a group of parents who wanted to offer Marin families an established and yet new approach to early childhood education. Our program offers an environment that recognizes and nurtures the importance of childhood. It is through imitation, use of the imagination, free play, and engaging with nature that a young child grows in a healthy way. Drawing inspiration from the principles of Waldorf Education , preventative discipline, and Kim John Payne’s Simplicity Parenting , we have created a program that is uniquely our own and accessible to all. To learn more about our school’s approach to education, we encourage you to read this interview with our former Director, Lori Grey. We provide: A place of simplicity and beauty — because young children are so greatly influenced by the mood of their environment. Our sunlit classrooms are designed with soft colors, and simple toys made of natural materials. An environment that encourages imaginary play that comes from within, laying the foundation for a child’s social-emotional, sensory, and academic success. A nourishing fare of story and song, work and play. Singing is woven into the rhythm of the day both in our circle time and in transitions throughout the day. Plenty of outdoor play time, rain or shine, and frequent teacher-guided nature walks. A program that reflects the seasons through songs, circle games, festivals, and stories. Professionally trained and long-term faculty members who care deeply about your child and family. Learn more about our Preschool Program .   “Our highest endeavor must be to develop free human beings who are able of themselves to impart purpose and direction to their lives. The need for imagination, a sense of truth, and a feeling of responsibility—these three forces are the very nerve of education.” Rudolf Steiner Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Parents + Board - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Parents + Board At the Mountain School, we believe in the strength of our community. In addition to our teachers, our parents are one of our greatest assets. Parents, grandparents, and caregivers volunteer in various capacities throughout the school year and participate in our community events. Our board is run by parents who volunteer their time. The board is responsible for the school’s fiscal health and organizes all community-building and fundraising activities. 2025-2026 Board Co-Presidents: Jessica English and Allan Schuler Treasurer: Josh Cherner Secretary Aneesha McClymont Members: Lauren Coles McChesney, Jake Millspaugh, and Julie Mok   Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Camps - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Camps We offer 6 to 8 weeks of summer camp* during the summer (in June, July, and possibly, the first week of August). Priority is given to currently enrolled students. *staffing permitted SAMPLE WEEKS CREATIVE COSTUMES Fine motor skills and imagination will be engaged as each child helps to design and sew (with assistance!) his or her own pieces for dress-up play. The children will take their creations home at the end of the week. MERRY MUSIC MAKING We will begin each morning in song while we explore the different sound qualities of a variety of objects. Throughout the week children will use everyday objects to craft their own musical instruments, to be taken home at the end of the week. NATURAL WOOL DYING & TOY MAKING We will dye wool with natural organic foods and spices, like onions and turmeric soup spice; then we will make the dyed wool into toys to take home. Natural wool dying is wet splashy fun! ADVENTURES IN NATURE We will go for daily hikes off campus to move and explore nature in the neighborhood. BEAN BAG TURTLES We will make bean bag turtles for puppet shows! SEA TREASURE & FISHING FRIENDS We will sing songs, hear stories about the sea, and make a fishing treasure game to bring home. CAMP REGISTRATION February Break Camp: 2/7 – 2/10/2023 Spring Break Camp : 4/10-4/15/2023 Call Office at 415.924.4661 for availability for Summer Camp 2023   Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Parent Resources - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Protected: Parent Resources This content is password-protected. To view it, please enter the password below. Password: Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Preschool - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Preschool The Mountain School has two mixed-age preschool classrooms, the Hummingbird Nest and the Chickadee Nest. Both nests have two teachers and up to twenty-one children, aged two years and nine months to approximately five and a half years old. Children thrive within our consistent, daily schedule at the Mountain School. Each element of our school day, from the teacher’s songs and speech to the routines and rituals that help form good habits. Our program meets each child with a developmentally appropriate and real-world curriculum, leaving them confident in themselves and the world around them. DAILY RHYTHM Mornings Our mornings begin with a circle of joyful song and movement, fostering form, focus, and social cohesion. Indoor Free Play  The children then transition to indoor free play. Activities draw on a child’s own imagination, such as dressing up, playing house, building structures, and role-playing using natural materials and wooden toys. Some days incorporate activities such as watercolor painting, drawing, beeswax modeling, baking, and cooking. As a natural part of their play, the children are learning how to negotiate and problem-solve with their peers. Clean up Clean-up time follows, with everyone joining in. Practical tasks such as tidying the classroom and hand washing are fun when singing together in the nest. Snack Time At snack time, children and teachers gather around a large round table and share delicious homemade, wholesome, organic, and vegetarian snacks, often prepared with the children’s help. Outdoor Play Outdoor play is next, and the children are outside each day, rain or shine. Both classes enjoy an hour of being together, building, digging, swinging, and much more. Some days, the teachers take the children on a guided walk in the neighborhood, or hike, supporting the development of our connection to nature. Story Time  Returning inside, the children enjoy storytime. Our teachers are master storytellers and, in the oral tradition, bring the stories from the world of fairytales and simple animal tales to life. In three-week cycles, the children hear the story being told by the teacher, see the story in a puppet show, and in the final week they perform a simple play of the story led by the teacher. This cycle of storytelling helps to develop a child’s inner-picturing skills and lays the foundation for reading comprehension. Lunch  The children end their mornings together with a lunch brought from home, eaten together at a communal table, with a helping of conversation, and a show of gratitude through an opening mealtime verse. Pick-Up/Afternoon Program Our Afternoon Program is slower paced and includes rest time, snacks, indoor/outdoor play, and arts and crafts activities. Children may be picked up at 1 pm or stay for our afternoon “Owls’ Nest” aftercare program, with the earliest pick-up at 3:30 pm and the latest pick-up at 5:45 pm. School Year Calendar We follow an August-to-June school-year calendar. School opens in late August and ends in mid-June. Summer camp is offered during the first six weeks of summer break. View Calendar ATTENDANCE OPTIONS HOURS Core Morning Program 9 am – 1 pm (doors open at 8:45 am) Full Day Program 8 am – 5:45 pm Early Morning Care 8 am – 8:45 am PROGRAM OPTIONS We offer Morning and Full Day Programs and additional options for the Afternoon Program. Learn more . Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Enrollment Process - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Enrollment Process The Mountain School accepts children aged two years and nine months to five years old. A child may begin the first day of the month in which s/he turns two years and nine months. Children attending the Mountain School must be diaper or pull-up free during activity and rest. PROCESS STEP 1: Take a Tour Parent tours take place Tuesdays from 9:30-10:30, pending confirmation, beginning in October. Schedule a tour by clicking your preferred date: January 9, 2026 , January 13, 2026 , January 20, 2026 STEP 2: Submit an Application for Admission Spaces in our school are limited; we recommend that parents submit their child’s application promptly; applications for admissions should be submitted by January 31, 2026, unless otherwise arranged, for the school year beginning the following September. Apply Now STEP 3: Schedule Your Child’s Visit After applying, we will schedule a playdate-style visit for you and your child. Appointments will be scheduled in January and early February, pending space availability. STEP 4: Sign the Enrollment Agreement First-round Enrollment Agreements for the 2024-25 school year will be emailed on or after March 1, 2025. Please reply within a week by signing the enrollment agreement and submitting a $500 Enrollment & Site Development Fee. The Enrollment & Site Development Fee holds space for the upcoming school year until the first tuition payment is due in May. The Enrollment Agreement is a legal document, and we would like you to review it carefully before signing. STEP 5: Pay First Tuition Tuition and fees vary according to the schedule and payment plan you choose. The first tuition payment is due May 1st of the school year, starting in September. Payment details/options are to be provided upon enrollment. Tuition Assistance The Mountain School offers tuition assistance based on demonstrated financial need and our available funds. Our maximum award is 50% of the morning program. Please use this link to apply by January 31, 2026. Sibling Application: The Mountain School gives preference to our current families and siblings for enrollment. The deadline for siblings is November 30, 2024, for start dates during the 2025-2026 school year. If you missed this deadline, please complete the application as soon as possible; thank you. Please use this link to apply. Tuition Tuition + Fees vary according to the schedule and payment plan you choose. Tuition Assistance Tuition assistance applications should be received by January 31 for the school year beginning the following September. Visit the FACTS Site , a tuition management service, to apply for tuition assistance (First round applications are due January 31, 2025).   Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Schedule a Tour - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Schedule a Tour School tours take place on Tuesdays from 9:30 to 10:30, pending confirmation. Schedule a tour by clicking your preferred date: October 7, October 14, October 21, November 4 , November 11 , November 18 , December 2 , December 9 , December 16, 2025. January 9, 2026 , January 13, 2026 , January 20, 2026 Thank you. We look forward to seeing you soon. Email [email protected]   Aftercare (1-5:45 pm) 415-924-4661 Where We Are 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 Map Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Home - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Your child begins an important journey of self-discovery in preschool. At the Mountain School, our experienced Waldorf-certified teachers create an environment that fosters self-reliance and engages your child’s imagination through a daily rhythm of activities in the classroom. Our program helps children build their confidence and lays a foundation for future success, both academically and socially. For more information, or to schedule a private tour (October through January), please contact: [email protected] “The Mountain School has always offered children a rich curriculum that allows for exploration and the nurturing of joyful learning. These students easily transition into elementary school and consistently do well through the elementary years.” ~Jeff Escabar, former Director of Admissions, Marin Country Day School, current Head of School, Marin Preparatory School “We’re so grateful Tahlequah had an extra year at the Mountain School — we see the benefits every day in her ability to focus, her internal confidence, and the kindness she demonstrates with her peers in kindergarten.” ~ Sandra Smith, Tahlequah and Alyeska’s mom When we first visited the Mountain School, we were struck by how thoughtfully the teachers manage the children and their daily transitions through songs and storytelling. Later, as parents at the school we were amazed at the depth of insight Gale would share with us, helping us be more in tune with Sophie’s development. ~ Lyle Poindexter, Sophie and Alice’s dad “How incredible to experience Noah grow into himself at the Mountain School. Miss Kimi has guided him (and us) in learning how to embrace his emotional and physical being. We are really seeing the comfort in his own skin, his inner confidence and empathy blossom.” ~ Caroline Errington, Noah’s mom “The self-confidence, social awareness, and emotional skills our son developed at the Mountain School were immediately obvious as he transitioned into kindergarten. We’re excited for our daughter Kate to soon enter kindergarten with the same set of tools.” ~ Christa Gatewood, Max and Kate’s mom THE DAILY RHYTHM 1  Circle Time Joyful song and movement fostering form, focus, and social cohesion. Program Details » 2  Free Play Activities that draw on a child’s own imagination such as dressing up, playing house, building structures, and role-playing using natural toys. Program Details » 3  Arts and Crafts Artistic expression through watercolor painting, beeswax modeling, baking and cooking, and other handicrafts. Program Details » 4  Clean Up Practical tasks such as tidying the classroom and hand washing made fun when singing together. Program Details » 5  Snack Delicious homemade, wholesome, organic, and vegetarian snacks prepared with the children’s help. Program Details » 6  Outdoor Play Fresh air and outdoor fun in the playground and regular neighborhood walks that support a connection to nature. Program Details » 7  Storytelling Engaging tales from the folk and fairy tale traditions, often including a puppet show or play in which the children participate. Program Details » 8  Lunch Eaten together at a communal table, with a helping of conversation and a show of gratitude. Program Details » 9  Owls' Nest Optional afternoon “Owls’ Nest” program from 1 – 5:45 pm. Daily, monthly or yearly sign-ups. Program Details » Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Events + Traditions - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Events + Traditions Annual Events Just as rhythm guides our days, seasonal events and traditions frame our school year, and provide a way for our whole community of children, parents, caregivers, and teachers to come together at special times. Apple Faire Our celebration of fall that is open not only to our community but also our friends and neighbors. Lantern Walk Our evening celebration of the coming of the Winter Solstice for the entire family. Spring Baskets The children celebrate the coming of spring by growing grass in their own spring baskets. May Fest Parents and children picnic and dance around the Maypole. Stay-for-Circle Days Parents join their children for circle time. Parent Education Evenings Uniting the work of parents at home with the work of our teachers. Parent Social and Auction Party Our annual festive fundraising event for the school. Family Workday and Picnic Joining together to spruce up our nests and garden at the beginning of the school year. Ice Cream Social and Picnic A celebration of the last day of the school year. Visit Us We offer admissions mixers, classes for young children and parents, and tours of our campus to help people get to know our school.   Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Faculty + Staff - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Faculty + Staff Our teachers support the unfolding individuality of each child as they guide them through their early years of understanding themselves and each other. The wealth of training, experience, and dedication they bring to our nests every day defines the Mountain School and the unique experience we offer. BRENDA NOVICK, School Director Growing up in New Mexico, Brenda spent her childhood playing outside with her three sisters, fishing with her father, camping in Colorado, and creating memories that inspired her future life as a teacher. Brenda’s mother was a local artist and high school teacher who instilled the love of reading, beauty, nature, painting, making ceramics of all kinds, gardening, sewing, and nurturing animals. With an inquisitive mind, it was only natural for Brenda to pursue a Liberal Arts degree, a Waldorf Teacher Training certificate, and a parenting coaching certificate. Most recently, she trained to become a postpartum doula. Always learning, she is now studying mindfulness meditation at a local meditation center. Now that her children are grown and in college, Brenda spends her time at home with her two rescue kitties, Timmy and Leo, in Larkspur, California. BRONWEN DAVID, Lead Teacher Bronwen David was born and raised in San Francisco; she comes from a large family full of educators. She is an alumnus of the San Francisco Waldorf High School. She completed three years of Waldorf teacher training at Rudolph Steiner College in Fair Oaks. Bronwen taught for 12 years at the San Francisco Waldorf School, seven years in the kindergarten, four years in the nursery, and one year in the aftercare as well as parent-child classes. Bronwen has always been drawn to Waldorf education which meets the child where they are developmentally and brings creativity and imagination to the children. Bronwen also has her certificate as a postpartum Doula. She is a proud aunt to 14 children. She loves to travel, garden, and spend time with her large family. Aisling Cullen, Chickadee Assistant Teacher, more about Aisling is on the way! CELESTE PAYESKO, Hummingbird Lead Teacher Celeste grew up in a large family in the Midwest, obtaining degrees in Political Science from Indiana University and Waldorf teacher training from the San Francisco Extension of Rudolf Steiner College. She believes that the young child seeks kind, joyful, and wise adults that can help them become who they were born to be and that Waldorf education gives teachers the tools to help this happen. Celeste began her teaching career by starting a preschool in her home, following the Waldorf early childhood curriculum. She has substitute taught at The Mountain School since 2010, serving in all teaching aspects at the school. She’s also taught at Marin Waldorf (where her three children attended K-8) in sub and volunteer capacities in both early childhood and grade classrooms and at The Hummingbirds’ Collaborative School. , Doris Bognar, Assistant Hummingbird Teacher Doris’s professional journey began in Austria, her home country, where she dedicated herself to the care and education of young children. Her roles ranged from city-sponsored after-school care to managing a group of children in a family cooperative school, where she worked closely with parents. This early experience set the foundation for her lifelong commitment to early childhood education. After settling in the United States, she was inspired by working with children with Autism and other developmental disabilities and eventually becoming an educational administrator. She also taught at the German School of Marin on Saturdays, teaching German to preschool-aged kindergarteners and first-grade students. Later, she became the lead teacher of first—and second-grade students at a German immersion camp affiliated with the Bay Area Kinderstube School in Berkeley. During that time, Doris completed the essential early childhood education units at Santa Rosa Junior College. Then, she earned her AA degree and bachelor’s in Humanities at the New College of California, focused on Sustainable Communities and Ecology. In 2019, Doris began teaching at Bright Horizons, Marin Commons. She worked in the infant room for two years and in the toddler classroom. After completing the Lifeways Waldorf Early Childhood Training in 2023, Doris created a Waldorf-inspired classroom for children 2-3 years of age at Old Adobe School in Sonoma. It was an inspiring year, but she realized she was drawn to teaching in a Waldorf Community. She has found a new home at the Mountain School, where she is looking forward to learning from an experienced lead teacher, Celeste Payesko. Doris Bognar has lived in Petaluma with her husband for many years. She enjoys yoga, gardening, knitting, and handy crafts.   TARA PURDY, Aftercare Program Lead Teacher Tara grew up on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, where she was surrounded by pristine nature. The natural world has inspired her decision-making throughout her whole life. She attended Fort Lewis College and studied Early Childhood Development. She spent all of her free time exploring the wonders of the outdoors, tuning into the four seasons. She also pursued other interests, including western herbalism, travel, and radio. 2011 she completed teacher training at Bay Area Center for Waldorf Teacher Training. She worked at San Francisco Waldorf for five years as a kindergarten assistant teacher and joined The Mountain School in 2018 after homeschooling three children in Thailand for a year abroad. Her goal is to impart the wonders of nature to children while spending cozy afternoons in an “in and out breath” of relaxation and play, allowing them to feel truly free. Karla Wood, Assistant Aftercare Teacher Karla Wood was named after the hurricane that occurred in 1961 in Texas. She often used this as an excuse as to why her room was messy as a teen. Somehow her mother never bought it! Karla spent her earlier years in Juneau, Alaska where she ran a lot (even if bears were not chasing her) and gained a first-hand experience with glaciers, saltwater inlets, and sailing. Today, Karla is a Waldorf educator who started her journey some 25 years ago at the San Francisco Waldorf School and continued at the Olympia Waldorf School, Greenwood School in Mill Valley, and now The Mountain School. Karla is passionate about helping children acquire the skills and abilities that they will need in the future. She also enjoys kayaking, walking her grinning (almost) black lab, and ridiculous jokes with her daughter and husband. Christine “Bean” Pitnick, Aftercare Assistant Teacher Christine “Bean” Pitnick’s journey into education began in her early years in Larkspur, CA. Her mother, a preschool teacher, played a significant role in shaping her understanding and love for early childhood education. Where did the name Bean come from? During her formative years, her mother affectionately coined the nickname ‘Bean,’ a name that has stuck with her ever since. From a young age, Bean envisioned her future as an educator and a mother. In 2016, Bean completed 500 hours of Hatha Yoga training and Thai Massage certification. Recognizing the benefits of yoga in early childhood development, she combined yoga with early childhood education by Tuition + Fees - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Tuition + Fees Annual tuition for the Mountain School covers a September-to-June school-year calendar. School opens the day after Labor Day and ends in mid-June. A non-refundable, one-time fee of $75 must accompany each prospective student’s application. A non-refundable, annual Enrollment & Site Development fee of $500 is due upon enrollment and does not apply towards tuition. Tuition will be prorated for children eligible to attend after September. Any child who will be 5 years old by January 1 of the current school year must attend a five-morning schedule, with afternoons optional. All other children may attend on a two-morning (Thursday-Friday), three-morning (Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday), or five-morning schedule, with afternoons added as needed. Families with more than one child concurrently enrolled will receive a 5% discount for the second and third children. This discount does not apply to families receiving Tuition Assistance. 2024 – 25 TUITION Specific full days must be selected at enrollment and incorporated into the annual Enrollment Agreement. Morning Program 5 mornings (M–F, 9 am-1 pm): $21,000 3 mornings (M-T-W, 9 am-1 pm): $16,800 2 mornings (Th–F, 9 am-1 pm): $13,650 Full Day Program 5 days (M–F, 8 am- 6:00 pm): $29,650 3 days (M-T-W, 9 am-6:00 pm): $22,850 *The Full Day Program includes Early Care from 8 to 9 am. Morning/Full-Day Combination Program 5 mornings (9 am–1 pm), select 4 afternoons (1-5:45 pm): $26,700 5 mornings (9 am–1 pm), select 3 afternoons (1- 5:45 pm): $25,200 5 mornings (9 am–1 pm), select 2 afternoons (1- 5:45 pm): $23,700 Additional afternoons during the school year, subject to availability, will be billed at the sign-in rate. PAYMENT OPTIONS Tuition payments begin May 1 for the school year starting in September and may be paid online, in one, two, four, eight, or ten payments, according to the following schedule: Annual One payment, due May 1 Semi-Annual Two payments, due May 1 and November 1 Four Payments Due May 1, August 1, November 1, and February 1 Eight Payments Due May 1, June 1, July 1, August 1, September 1, October 1, November 1, February 1 Monthly Ten payments beginning May 1 and ending February 1. More information will be provided during the enrollment process. AFTERNOON ENROLLMENT OPTIONS Option 1: Full-Day Program Times and tuition as outlined above Early Care from 8-8:45 am included The child attends the afternoon program every day of morning attendance up until 5:45 pm The first pickup is at 3:30 pm Option 2: Morning/Full-Day Combination Program Times and tuition as outlined above The child attends the afternoon program on selected days up until 5:45 pm The first pickup is at 3:30 pm Option 4: Sign-in Afternoon Attendance (if space is available) Two-and-a-half hour minimum per day, first pick-up at 3:30 pm, last pick-up at 5:45 pm May be arranged in advance or as late as the same day Subject to space availability May be canceled up to 24 hours in advance without penalty Two-and-a-half hour charge applies for cancellation less than 24 hours in advance Available any day, whether or not the child is in the Morning Program that day Early Morning Care $17.00 per day, billed after attendance Available daily 8-8:45 am (last drop-off at 8:40 am) No sign-up is necessary; drop-in only Children may be dropped off after 8:45 am at no additional charge TUITION ASSISTANCE Limited financial aid available to qualified families The maximum grant is 40% of the selected program Application for Tuition Assistance should be received by January 31 for the school year beginning the following September (please inquire with us after the deadline, in case funds are still available) Visit the FACTS Site (registration is required), a tuition management service, to apply for tuition assistance (applications available after November 1). Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Preschool - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Preschool The Mountain School has two mixed-age preschool classrooms, the Hummingbird Nest and the Chickadee Nest. Both nests have two teachers and up to twenty-one children, aged two years and nine months to approximately five and a half years old. Children thrive within our consistent, daily schedule at the Mountain School. Each element of our school day, from the teacher’s songs and speech to the routines and rituals that help form good habits. Our program meets each child with a developmentally appropriate and real-world curriculum, leaving them confident in themselves and the world around them. DAILY RHYTHM Mornings Our mornings begin with a circle of joyful song and movement, fostering form, focus, and social cohesion. Indoor Free Play  The children then transition to indoor free play. Activities draw on a child’s own imagination, such as dressing up, playing house, building structures, and role-playing using natural materials and wooden toys. Some days incorporate activities such as watercolor painting, drawing, beeswax modeling, baking, and cooking. As a natural part of their play, the children are learning how to negotiate and problem-solve with their peers. Clean up Clean-up time follows, with everyone joining in. Practical tasks such as tidying the classroom and hand washing are fun when singing together in the nest. Snack Time At snack time, children and teachers gather around a large round table and share delicious homemade, wholesome, organic, and vegetarian snacks, often prepared with the children’s help. Outdoor Play Outdoor play is next, and the children are outside each day, rain or shine. Both classes enjoy an hour of being together, building, digging, swinging, and much more. Some days, the teachers take the children on a guided walk in the neighborhood, or hike, supporting the development of our connection to nature. Story Time  Returning inside, the children enjoy storytime. Our teachers are master storytellers and, in the oral tradition, bring the stories from the world of fairytales and simple animal tales to life. In three-week cycles, the children hear the story being told by the teacher, see the story in a puppet show, and in the final week they perform a simple play of the story led by the teacher. This cycle of storytelling helps to develop a child’s inner-picturing skills and lays the foundation for reading comprehension. Lunch  The children end their mornings together with a lunch brought from home, eaten together at a communal table, with a helping of conversation, and a show of gratitude through an opening mealtime verse. Pick-Up/Afternoon Program Our Afternoon Program is slower paced and includes rest time, snacks, indoor/outdoor play, and arts and crafts activities. Children may be picked up at 1 pm or stay for our afternoon “Owls’ Nest” aftercare program, with the earliest pick-up at 3:30 pm and the latest pick-up at 5:45 pm. School Year Calendar We follow an August-to-June school-year calendar. School opens in late August and ends in mid-June. Summer camp is offered during the first six weeks of summer break. View Calendar ATTENDANCE OPTIONS HOURS Core Morning Program 9 am – 1 pm (doors open at 8:45 am) Full Day Program 8 am – 5:45 pm Early Morning Care 8 am – 8:45 am PROGRAM OPTIONS We offer Morning and Full Day Programs and additional options for the Afternoon Program. Learn more . Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661 Donate - marin mountain school You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience. Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Toggle navigation marin mountain school About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Programs Preschool Camps Admissions Enrollment Process Schedule a Tour Tuition + Fees Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Visit Us  About Us Overview Faculty + Staff Schedule a Tour  Programs Preschool Camps  Admissions Schedule a Tour Enrollment Process Tuition + Fees  Community Events + Traditions Parents + Board School Calendar Parent Resources Donate Donate Thank you for supporting the Mountain School. Since our founding, we have been blessed by the generosity of our community. Your gift helps ensure that we can continue to provide early childhood education programs that inspire children’s imagination, teach them self-reliance, and build their confidence. We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization; any donation is fully tax-deductible. Our Federal Tax ID/EIN is 68-0226629. On behalf of the whole Mountain School community, we send our gratitude. 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Yes No Occasion for your gift: Annual Fund Garden/Grounds In honor of In memory of Unspecified/other Provide the name of the person you'd like to honor or remember. Your Affiliation with The Mountain School Parent Grandparent Community Member Alumni Does your company provide matching gifts? Yes No Company Name Payment Details Credit Card Card Details Cardholder Name * indicates required field Parent Resources Donate Visit Us Preschool Enrollment Donate The Mountain School 50 El Camino Drive Corte Madera, CA 94925 [email protected] 415-924-4661