AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Western Heights Montessori Academy vs. DMS Montessori Preschool and Daycare Inc.

one-to-one comparison:

View Western Heights Montessori Academy's full report
VS.
View DMS Montessori Preschool and Daycare Inc.'s full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    6920 Millcreek Drive, Mississauga, Ontario, L5N 4J9, Canada

    101 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, ON, Ontario, L1G 4S4, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2015

    2007

    Enrolment

    165

    53

    Grades

    Nursery/Toddler to 2

    Nursery/Toddler to SK

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Montessori

    Curriculum pace

    Academic culture

    Avg. Class Size

    Varies

    Varies

    Special needs support

    Gifted learner support

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Montessori
    Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.

    If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
    Montessori
    Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.

    If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    No

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    None

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    24

    13

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    Not available

    Day entry years

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Not available

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    No

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Student-centred programs and an efficient interface with parents have endeared Western Heights to the families that turn to it. Now with seven locations throughout the GTA, it has all the benefits that come from a larger administration team, while also maintaining a close-knit, community feel at each of the schools. Teachers are skilled, qualified, and engaging. A strong core Montessori program is augmented with language instruction, including Mandarin, and music beginning at the toddler level. On-site catering, with lots of healthy options, is also a draw.

    View full report

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    Praised by families for its "amazing teaching methods and commendable patience," DMS Montessori Preschool and Daycare is deeply inspired by the Montessori philosophy of early childhood development. With an emphasis on "freedom within limits," children are encouraged to explore and learn independently under the guidance of certified educators. As the founder Dina Scarcelli says, "Every single day counts to ensure your child is happy, healthy, and that their developmental needs are met.” The school supports the development of academic skills, as well as social, emotional, and physical growth. Mixed-age classrooms enable individualized learning and enriching peer-to-peer interactions. The curriculum is designed to support both fine and gross motor skill development, while nurturing independence and self-direction in the kids. A full range of Montessori materials are available in the classrooms to facilitate hands-on exploration and learning. Each child follows a personalized program adapted to their age and developmental level. By combining the time-tested Montessori method with a warm, stimulating, and supportive environment, DMS Montessori Preschool and Daycare aims to nurture well-rounded, confident individuals who are well-prepared for future academic and life challenges.

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    "Serving the Oakville, Mississauga, Milton and Burlington communities with seven campuses since 2015, Western Heights Montessori Academy offers an enriched Montessori curriculum to children from six months to 12 years of age. Voted as the best child care centre in Oakville and Mississauga, we believe that every child is special and unique. It is our mission to bring out the full potential in every one of our students by offering a customized, engaged, and enriched program in a close-knit, caring environment."

    • Enriched Montessori curriculum with specialized Music, French, Mandarin and Kids Yoga classes.
    • Diamond award winner of Best Child Care in Oakville by Oakville Beaver for four consecutive years
    • Schedule your private tour today: http://www.westernheightsmontessori.com/schedule-a-tour/
    • Contact us: http://www.westernheightsmontessori.com/contact-us/

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    "DMS believes in the Montessori approach to education. Our dedicated staff, live the Montessori philosophy daily and possess the necessary training to guide young minds effectively. We believe that your child's potential to make a positive impact on the world begins with early learning experiences, and we're honored to be a part of their journey."

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    "At DMS, we believe in providing an educational experience that goes beyond the traditional classroom, and we do so by focusing on three key differentiating features: personalized learning, holistic child development, and a community-centered approach. Here's how we deliver these features and the outcomes they create for our students:

    1. Personalized Learning Journey
    We recognize that each child is unique, with different strengths, interests, and learning styles. To cater to these differences, DMS implements a customized curriculum that adapts to each child’s individual pace and level of understanding. Our teachers use continuous observation and assessment to tailor activities that meet the developmental needs of every student. By fostering a learning environment where children are challenged but not overwhelmed, we empower them to take ownership of their learning.

    Outcome: Students develop a deep love of learning, enhanced problem-solving skills, and the confidence to explore new ide"

    Array

    What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    "At DMS, our Montessori philosophy centers on individualized learning, holistic development, and community-driven growth. To uphold these values, we intentionally make tradeoffs that focus on the child’s natural development.We prioritize personalized learning over standardized testing. By allowing children to progress at their own pace, they develop a deep love of learning and independence. This means less focus on rigid grade-level benchmarks, but more meaningful, lasting academic growth.We emphasize freedom of exploration over strict discipline. Students manage their learning time, which fosters self-regulation and responsibility. While our classroom may seem less structured, it promotes independence.Our focus on holistic development ensures emotional, social, and physical growth are balanced with academics. Finally, we prioritize hands-on learning over tech, cultivating real-world problem-solving skills.These tradeoffs allow us to nurture capable, resilient, and independent learners"

    Array

    What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    "DMS’s present identity is deeply rooted in key milestones from its history. From its founding, Dina S was committed to the Montessori method, creating a culture of trust, independence, and self-directed learning. This founding vision remains central to our identity today.As demand grew, we expanded our classrooms and programs, allowing us to offer a full Montessori experience for children of all ages. This period of growth reinforced our dedication to multi-age learning and individualized education.In the mid-2000s, we integrated nature-based learning, building outdoor classrooms and fostering environmental stewardship. This emphasis on nature has become a hallmark of our curriculum.By the 2010s, we strengthened community engagement, involving parents more closely in school life, creating a strong, supportive environment for all.During the pandemic, DMS adapted while maintaining our core Montessori values, showing resilience and flexibility. These turning points continue to define DMS!"

    Array

    What type of student is a good fit for your school?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    "The students who thrive most at DMS are those with a natural curiosity and a desire for independence. Montessori education encourages self-directed learning, so students who are eager to explore, ask questions, and take ownership of their learning journey will flourish. Children who benefit most are often adaptable, collaborative, and open to working in a mixed-age environment where they can learn from peers and mentor others.For families, those who value a child-centered, holistic approach to education will feel most aligned with our philosophy. Parents who prioritize emotional, social, and academic growth equally, and who appreciate the slower, more personalized pace of Montessori learning, will see the best results. Families who understand the importance of fostering independence and responsibility, and who trust the process of individualized learning, tend to be the most satisfied. A strong belief in community involvement and communication between home and school is also key !"

    Array

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    "DMS may not be a good fit for families seeking a traditional, highly structured education with a focus on standardized testing and competitive academic rankings. Our Montessori approach emphasizes individualized, self-paced learning, which might not meet the expectations of those who prioritize measurable academic results or strict adherence to grade-level standards.

    Families who expect a disciplined, teacher-led environment may find our emphasis on student independence and freedom of choice less structured than they prefer. Our classrooms foster self-regulation and autonomy, which can be challenging for families used to more controlled settings.

    Additionally, parents looking for heavy technology integration may not align with our philosophy, as we prioritize hands-on, nature-based learning over screen time. We believe in developing practical life skills and real-world problem-solving, which may not satisfy those seeking a more tech-driven approach. For families who prefer a faster,"

    Array

    To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    Information not available

    Array

    How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    "The most prominent feature of DMS in the public eye is its commitment to child-centered, hands-on learning. When people think of our school, they picture a nurturing environment where children are encouraged to explore at their own pace, guided by Montessori principles. This image is tied to classrooms filled with natural materials, students engaged in self-directed activities, and a strong sense of independence fostered in every child.

    The emphasis on holistic development—balancing academic, emotional, and social growth—also stands out. DMS is often recognized for its outdoor learning spaces, where students are seen gardening, exploring nature, and engaging with the environment as an extension of the classroom.

    This image conveys a deep connection to our Montessori philosophy, reflecting our commitment to fostering well-rounded, curious, and self-motivated learners in a supportive and creative environment."

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    "DMS’s recent changes and improvements are a direct reflection of our core commitments to child-centered learning, holistic development, and community engagement. Our expansion of outdoor learning spaces—including a new nature garden and outdoor classroom—embodies our belief in hands-on, experiential learning and the importance of connecting students to nature. This addition has allowed students to engage in more practical life activities and environmental education, deepening their understanding of the world around them.

    We’ve also invested in enhanced teacher training to further align with Montessori principles. By equipping our educators with advanced Montessori techniques, we’ve reinforced our commitment to individualized learning and the holistic development of every child."

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Information not available

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    "we aim to develop a stronger family education program, offering more workshops and resources to support parents in applying Montessori principles at home. By expanding these programs, we’ll create a more holistic, cohesive learning environment, where school and home are aligned in nurturing each child's growth. Our mission will continue to guide us in developing capable, resilient, and thoughtful individuals."

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    Dear parents and students,

    Welcome to Western Heights Montessori Academy, where every child's journey of discovery and growth is celebrated. As the Head of School, I am thrilled to lead a dedicated team of educators committed to nurturing young minds through the Montessori pedagogy. Our holistic approach to education, tailored for children aged 6 months to grade 2, fosters independence, curiosity, and a lifelong love for learning.

    At Western Heights, we believe in providing a nurturing environment where each child is empowered to explore, discover, and flourish at their own pace. Our Montessori-inspired classrooms offer hands-on learning experiences that inspire creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.

    As we embark on this journey together, I invite you to partner with us in creating an enriching educational experience for your child. Together, let's cultivate a community where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

    I look forward to witnessing the growth and achievements of each and every student at Western Heights Montessori Academy.

    Warm Regards,

    Helen Mansour

    Head of School

    Western Heights Montessori Academy

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation

    DMS MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE INC.

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation


    What the school says

    What the school says

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    • We offer Kids Yoga, French, Mandarin, and Music class in addition to our Montessori curriculum. As a school with diverse community, we also showcase our learning through culture avenue via our international week open house event!
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    Not available

    Day entry years

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Jan 01, 1970

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Jan 01, 1970

    Interview required?

    No

    No

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    Our children are Infants, Toddlers, Preschoolers and Kindergarteners. They are very young! We would love to have students who are interested and eager to explore the world around them and strive to be independent!

    What the school says

    What the school says

    WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

    1) Schedule a tour at our each individual campuses to get to know more about the curriculum, learning environment and get all your questions answered

    2) Meet-and-Greet with the child during the tour

    3) Submit enrollment forms with a copy of your child's immunization records

    4) Make deposit payment 

     

     

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

Compare:

WESTERN HEIGHTS MONTESSORI ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




x

By logging in or creating an account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Information presented on this page may be paid advertising provided by the advertisers [schools/camps/programs] and is not warranted or guaranteed by OurKids.net or its associated websites. By using this website, creating or logging into an Our Kids account, you agree to Our Kids' Terms and Conditions. Please also see our Privacy Policy. Our Kids ™ © 2023 All right reserved.