Our History | Montessori Academy

Our History
Montessori Academy Idaho

Home / About Us / History

Our Beginning

Montessori Academy was founded in 1998 when Mike and Jody Malterre set out to create the kind of school they had hoped to find for their own children. They believed every child deserves a learning environment where they are recognized as individuals and supported as they grow.

During their search for the right school, the Malterres realized that many programs didn’t fully reflect the values they felt were most important. They wanted a place where children would be known by their teachers, encouraged to think independently, and given the opportunity to build the habits and skills that lead to confidence and lifelong success.

With that goal in mind, they opened Montessori Academy in Boise.

A Montessori Foundation

From the start, Montessori Academy was built on the principles of Montessori education, placing students at the center of the learning process. With a commitment to individualized learning and community-minded values, the school created a space where students were empowered to be themselves while developing responsibility and respect for others.

The Malterres’ passion for education helped establish a preschool experience that felt different from other options available to families in the region.

Growth in the Treasure Valley

As more families discovered Montessori Academy’s approach, the school expanded to serve additional communities throughout the Treasure Valley. The Meridian preschool opened in 2020, followed by a preschool at Barber Station in 2023.

These expansions allowed Montessori Academy to bring its student-centered philosophy to more families throughout the Boise region.

Commitment to Excellence

Montessori Academy is proud to be the first accredited Montessori school in the Treasure Valley and the second in the state of Idaho. This milestone reflects the school’s long-standing dedication to maintaining the highest standards in Montessori education.

The school’s commitment to quality education is also reflected in its collaboration with IdahoSTARS. Montessori Academy helped advocate for inclusion in the state’s quality rating system and achieved the highest rating for programs serving children from six weeks through age five.

Students from Montessori Academy continue to achieve success both in and beyond the classroom. Graduates move on to schools of their choice and are regularly recognized for their accomplishments, including scholarship opportunities at regional college-preparatory programs.

Continuing the Mission

At Montessori Academy, education is far more than academics. The school strives to open students’ minds, build self-confidence, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning.

Today, Montessori Academy is part of Spring Education Group, a network of private schools providing outstanding educational outcomes across the United States. As part of this network, Montessori Academy continues its community-focused approach while benefitting from the shared resources and best practices of a larger educational organization.