School Spotlight: Guidepost Montessori at Eldorado

Guidepost Montessori at Eldorado was the third Guidepost campus to launch in 2017. Located in McKinney, Texas, the school now offers an enriching Montessori education to over 100 children between the ages of 16 months and 6 years old. The campus is led by Alba Olivas, a committed educator with over 23 years of Montessori experience.

Personalized Learning and Independence

At Guidepost Montessori at Eldorado, personalized learning is a high priority; students are encouraged to explore key subjects at their own pace and to follow their interests, which helps to foster a sense of independence.

“Our guides (teachers) are trained to help the children make choices and engage in hands-on activities,” Alba explained. "In our classrooms, you’ll see students collaborating with their peers and developing real life skills such as responsibility and problem-solving, which we realize are essential for their future success.” This stands in contrast to traditional classrooms, where the focus is often primarily textbook-based learning and rote memorization. Rather than passively absorbing information, students at Guidepost at Eldorado are immersed in meaningful learning experiences that encourage active participation and skill development.

A Team of Dedicated Guides

Guidepost at Eldorado is fortunate to have a team of dedicated guides leading each classroom. “I love our guides – they really are amazing!” said Alba. “The collaboration that takes place between all of our guides during their lesson planning hour allows me to see that they are engaged in excellent work.” All of the school’s lead guides have their Montessori teaching certifications, and most of the assistant guides are enrolled in the Prepared Montessorian Institute’s (PMI) training program.

Samantha Boone is a Junior Lead Guide in one of the school's Children’s House classrooms. “I started with Guidepost 2.5 years ago as an Assistant Guide... And I will be finished with my PMI certification this November,” Samantha explained. “It is a privilege to guide my children; watching them become independent is the most rewarding experience. It is so inspiring to see a child’s face light up with pride after successfully completing a work.”

Commitment to Parent Partnership

“Partnering with parents is essential,” explained Alba. “We strive to make meaningful connections with parents on a regular basis so that they know how their children are doing and what they’re working on.” The school sends regular weekly emails to all families and hosts monthly Coffee Chats for parents to connect with the Head of School. “We also love to host fun and educational events,” Alba shared. “Just a few of our popular events include our Back to School Bash, our Fall Festival, a Toileting Seminar, Silent Journeys, a Valentine’s Day Dance, Parent’s Night Out, Spring Fling, and many more.” Some of the school’s events are led solely by the team at Eldorado and many are hosted in collaboration with nearby Guidepost Montessori schools.

Parents especially appreciate these opportunities to connect with other members of the school community and to learn more about the Montessori approach. But they're especially thankful for the support and guidance of the school team. “We always enjoy the events that take place at Guidepost Montessori at Eldorado, but what we value even more are the deeper connections the guides make with us to help educate us as parents,” shared Brenton, a father of two students at Guidepost at Eldorado. “It's reassuring to know that not only are your children loved and cared for at school, but that the guides' care stretches beyond their classroom. Guidepost Montessori guides are true members of our community, helping to raise our children.”

A Beautiful Outdoor Space

“Our outdoor space is truly an extension of the classroom,” shared Alba. “Students often enjoy doing their work outside in the courtyard which is accessible through secured doors in all of the classrooms. In this space, you’ll see students enjoying a picnic with a friend, manicuring the mulch in our play structure area, and taking care of the environment. And during most seasons you can witness the children taking care of the garden and harvesting what they have grown.”

At Guidepost Montessori at Eldorado, the children are not just taught but empowered to direct their own educational journey. The team works diligently to set a strong foundation for their growth, both academically and personally. To learn more about the school or to book a tour, visit the school’s webpage.