Experience, passion, and innovation are hallmarks of the school’s success.

 Sunrise Montessori School has been teaching preschool and kindergarten students to be well-rounded and self-confident for 20 years. In 2005, Sunrise began with one classroom, two teachers, and six students, expanding into its current location at 31 Hayward St. in Franklin. The school’s founders worked diligently to build an environment where kids feel comfortable discovering and learning at their own pace, allowing students to not only take direction of their learning, but to find wonder in the world around them. Former Head of School and co-founder, Karen Roeber, recounts her first visit to a Montessori classroom. “I can remember being so impressed. The classroom was so different from any other that I had ever been in – the children were all working quietly in various subject areas. The environment was so clean, and the shelves were neatly set up. The children chose which activities they wanted to work on, and when they completed their work, they put it back on the shelf for the next child. What a wonderful concept of care and sharing, a philosophy that has lasted over 118 years”. 

Since 2005 Sunrise has brought the Montessori method to more than 418 children, ranging in age from 2.9 to 6 years old. Many families enroll younger siblings in subsequent years. The Montessori approach uses hands-on experiences that support independence and discovery. Students from Sunrise achieve success both academically and creatively (most recently, a Sunrise alum won the regional Gold Key, National Gold Medal, and scholarship at the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition for her artwork).

 Throughout the day, you’ll see the Montessori Head Teachers observing the classroom, presenting lessons to small groups and engaging one-on-one with students. The curriculum is self-directed; guided by the child’s own curiosity, and includes Language, Math, Science, Geography, Sensorial, the Arts, and Grace & Courtesy lessons that teach real-life skills children practice every day. From pouring their own glass of water and sweeping up after their lunch to identifying the life cycle and structure of a flower, each student is building a foundation of interest and responsibility in their everyday life that will carry them into adulthood. The teachers also help the children grasp a foundational component of Montessori education - respect for all living things - by strengthening communication and conflict resolution skills with their peers.  

Andrea Rossick, Sunrise’s current Head of School, has 25+ years of experience in Montessori environments. Rossick has spearheaded many updated facility and playground improvements in recent years to enhance the experience for students. “Looking forward, it’s been our dream to expand upon our successful preschool and kindergarten classrooms by adding a toddler program - which would help support the growing needs of our community.”

The school will celebrate its 20th year with multiple events, which will include former and current educators, staff, board members, and families who have come together to create the Sunrise community.  Co-founder, Sue Roecker, states that “under the guidance of our dedicated Board of Directors and support from the community, Sunrise Montessori School continues to provide excellence in early childhood education”.

Sunrise Montessori is a member of both the Montessori Schools of Massachusetts and American Montessori Society and is licensed by the MA Department of Early Education & Care. The school is a non-profit, 501c3 organization that relies on the support of tuition, fundraising, grants and the community to keep its vision moving forward. Located at 31 Hayward St., Franklin, the school welcomes families from all surrounding towns. To schedule a tour, learn more about the curriculum, or support Sunrise Montessori School, visit mysunrisemontessori.com. 

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