At Riverside Montessori Academy's North Riverside Campus, that's exactly what we strive to create every day.
Our campus combines the proven Montessori method with caring educators, thoughtfully prepared classrooms, and a close-knit community that believes every child deserves to be seen, respected, and empowered. Through hands-on learning, meaningful relationships, and individualized guidance, children develop the confidence, independence, and love of learning that will serve them for a lifetime.
Whether your child is beginning their educational journey or continuing to build on a strong foundation, our North Riverside Campus provides an environment where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Is Riverside Montessori Right for Your Child?
Every child learns differently.
Some children are naturally curious and eager to explore. Others benefit from additional encouragement and individualized attention. Some thrive when given the freedom to work independently, while others need the confidence that comes from feeling truly understood and supported.
At Riverside Montessori Academy, we recognize that no two children are exactly alike.
Rather than asking children to fit into a standardized approach, we create an environment that adapts to their developmental needs, interests, and learning styles. Our goal is to help every child discover their strengths, build confidence in their abilities, and develop a genuine love of learning.
Most importantly, it's a place where children are encouraged to be themselves while growing into capable, compassionate, and confident learners.
Our North Riverside Campus is often an excellent fit for children who:
Love asking questions and exploring new ideas
Benefit from individualized attention
Thrive in hands-on learning environments
Need space to learn at their own pace
Are developing confidence and independence
Learn differently than traditional classrooms may support
Enjoy meaningful relationships with teachers and peers
Campus Experience
Step Inside Our North Riverside Campus
The moment many families walk through our doors, they notice something feels different.
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The atmosphere is calm.
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The classrooms are purposeful.
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The children are engaged.
Instead of rows of desks and constant instruction, you'll see students working independently, collaborating with classmates, and exploring hands-on learning materials. You'll hear thoughtful conversations, observe focused learners, and experience an environment built around respect, curiosity, and discovery.
Every classroom is intentionally prepared to support children's natural desire to learn. Materials are accessible, learning experiences are meaningful, and children are encouraged to take ownership of their work.
It's not uncommon for visiting parents to say, "I wish I had learned this way."
What they see is more than a classroom.
They see children developing confidence, independence, and a genuine joy for learning.
North Riverside
Campus Photography Gallery
Virtual Photo Tour
Take a Peek Inside North Riverside
Explore the spaces where children learn, create, collaborate, and build confidence every day through this virtual photo tour of North Riverside.
Programs Available at Our North Riverside Campus
Our North Riverside Campus serves children during some of the most important years of their development.
Each program is carefully designed to meet children where they are while helping them build the skills and confidence needed for future success.
Preschool Program (Ages 2-3)
The preschool years are filled with incredible growth and discovery. In our nurturing Montessori environment, young children develop independence, coordination, concentration, language skills, and social confidence through hands-on exploration and purposeful activities.
Students learn practical life skills, develop routines, and begin building the foundation for lifelong learning in an environment designed specifically for their developmental needs.
Kindergarten & Elementary Programs
As children grow, their curiosity expands. Our elementary classrooms encourage students to think critically, ask questions, solve problems, and take ownership of their learning.
Students build strong academic foundations while developing leadership skills, creativity, responsibility, collaboration, and confidence. The result is an educational experience that prepares children not only for future academic success, but for life.
Summer Camp
Learning doesn't stop when school ends.
Our summer programs provide children with opportunities to explore, create, discover, and connect in a fun and engaging environment. Through hands-on activities, creative projects, outdoor experiences, and meaningful friendships, children continue growing while making lasting memories.
The Growth Families See
One of the most rewarding parts of our work is hearing parents describe the changes they see in their children.
Many families initially enroll because they are looking for strong academics. What often surprises them are the personal transformations they witness along the way.
Parents frequently tell us their children become more confident in themselves and their abilities. They notice greater independence, stronger communication skills, improved focus, and a willingness to take on new challenges.
Children begin taking responsibility for their work, solving problems more independently, and approaching learning with enthusiasm. Many families even report seeing positive changes at home, from increased helpfulness and responsibility to stronger emotional maturity and self-confidence.
Families often tell us they notice:
Increased confidence and self-esteem
Greater independence
Improved focus and concentration
Stronger communication skills
Better problem-solving abilities
Increased responsibility at home
Positive social interactions
Greater resilience
Excitement about learning
These aren't simply school skills.
They're life skills that help children become capable students, thoughtful friends, confident leaders, and successful adults.
The People Guiding Your Child's Growth
When parents choose a school, they're choosing more than a curriculum.
They're choosing the adults who will spend hundreds of hours helping shape their child's development.
At Riverside Montessori Academy, our educators serve as mentors, guides, encouragers, and trusted partners in your child's growth. They take the time to understand each student's personality, strengths, challenges, and potential.
Because of our Montessori approach and close-knit community, teachers develop meaningful relationships with children and families. Students feel known. Parents feel supported. And educators are able to provide the individualized guidance that helps children thrive.
Every member of our team shares a commitment to creating an environment where children feel safe, respected, challenged, and celebrated.
Because when children know they belong, they gain the confidence to succeed.
Students feel known.
Parents feel supported.
Teacher Profiles
Meet the Educators Supporting Each Child
Our teachers create warm, prepared classroom environments where students feel seen, encouraged, and guided with care.
Ms. Cookie
Campus Director of North RiversideMs. Cookie Amador is an accomplished educator and school leader with 17 years of dedicated service at Riverside Montessori Academy. As Campus Director of the North Campus –Pachappa, she is committed to educational leadership, and creating developmentally appropriate learning environments that support the growth and success of young children. She holds Bachelor's Degrees in Business Management and Economics, and in Early Childhood Education, bringing expertise in organizational leadership, child development, and instructional practice. Her career has been distinguished by a dedication to academic excellence, student-centered learning, and helping every child reach their full potential. Ms. Amador has earned the trust of students, families, and colleagues through her commitment to high-quality education and her belief in the potential of every child. She values academic achievement, character development, and strong family partnerships, recognizing that confidence, resilience, and meaningful relationships are essential to lifelong success. Through compassionate leadership and a passion for teaching, she strives to inspire a love of learning and nurture responsible, capable, and caring citizens.
Ms. Tyra
Program DirectorMs. Tyra serves as the Program Director for both campuses and brings more than 27 years of experience working with children. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to helping young learners grow academically, socially, and emotionally in a nurturing and supportive environment. Her passion for education and child development is reflected in her commitment to creating positive learning experiences that inspire confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. One of the most rewarding aspects of her role is creating meaningful experiences that help children reach their fullest potential. Ms. Tyra is committed to fostering a welcoming school community where students feel valued, families feel supported, and every child is encouraged to thrive. She also takes great pride in helping to ensure that students, families, and staff feel supported, connected, and empowered to succeed each day.
Mrs. Radika
Campus Director of South RiversideMrs. Radika Ratnayake is the Campus Director for the South Riverside Indiana location at Riverside Montessori Academy, where she has been a dedicated part of the school community for 33 years. She began her Montessori journey in 1987 after earning her certification through the Association Montessori Internationale and has spent more than three decades working in early childhood education. Over the years, she has played a key role in supporting the school’s growth and creating a strong, positive learning environment for students and staff. Her lasting impact on the community is evident in the many families she has served, including two generations of students who have passed through her classroom and care. She truly enjoys working with preschool children and loves helping them learn new skills while also building strong values. Her focus goes beyond academics—she works to help students become independent, kind, and responsible individuals. Her caring and supportive approach helps children grow in confidence and prepares them to succeed both in and out of the classroom. Through her dedication, experience, and genuine love for teaching, Mrs. Ratnayake has become a valued and respected member of the Riverside Montessori Academy family.
Proudly Serving North Riverside Families
For years, Riverside Montessori Academy has partnered with families throughout North Riverside and surrounding communities who want more for their children's education.
Our families come from diverse backgrounds, but they share a common goal: providing their children with an environment where they can develop confidence, independence, character, and a lifelong love of learning.
We are proud to be part of the North Riverside community and honored by the trust families place in us each year.
Many parents begin as prospective visitors and quickly become active members of our school community. The relationships built here often extend far beyond the classroom and create lasting connections among students, families, and educators.
What Families Are Saying
"The transformation we've seen in our daughter has been incredible. She has become more confident, independent, and excited about learning than we ever imagined."
— Parent of Preschool Student
"Our son loves going to school every morning. The teachers truly know him and support him in ways we never experienced elsewhere."
— Parent of Elementary Student
"The moment we toured the North Riverside Campus, we knew it felt different. The atmosphere, the teachers, and the way the children interacted with one another made our decision easy."
— Riverside Montessori Parent
Family Stories
Hear From Riverside Montessori Families
Watch these short video testimonials from families sharing what they have experienced as part of the Riverside Montessori Academy community.
Real stories from families can help you picture what your child’s experience could feel like here.
What Happens Next?
Choosing a school can feel overwhelming, and we understand that families often have many questions.
That's why we've made the admissions process simple and welcoming.
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Step 1: Schedule a Tour
Visit our campus and experience Montessori learning firsthand.
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Step 2: Meet Our Educators
Get to know the teachers and staff who will support your child's growth.
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Step 3: Explore the Classrooms
Observe students engaged in meaningful learning and discover what makes Montessori unique.
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Step 4: Discuss Enrollment
We'll answer your questions and help you determine whether Riverside Montessori Academy is the right fit for your family.
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Step 5: Join Our Community
Become part of a supportive school community dedicated to helping your child thrive.
Imagine Your Child Excited to Go to School Every Morning
Imagine your child walking into school feeling confident, capable, and eager to learn.
Imagine them developing independence, building meaningful friendships, and discovering strengths they didn't know they had.
Imagine a learning environment where your child is truly known, respected, and encouraged to become their best self.
That's what we strive to create every day at our North Riverside Campus.
We would love the opportunity to meet your family, answer your questions, and show you what makes Riverside Montessori Academy such a special place to learn and grow.
Schedule Your Personal Tour Today