Located near the University of Oklahoma campus, Classen Montessori School (formerly Children's House Montessori School) provides an authentic Montessori experience for children 3 to 12 years old. Children's House was founded in 1971 as an independent private Montessori school by Phyllis Boardman, and has operated continuously in the same location from that time until the present. The name, "Childr
en's House," was chosen, as it has been by many Montessori schools worldwide, following the name of the first school founded by Dr. Maria Montessori in Rome in l907, her "Casa dei Bambini". When the school began, the original teachers, Phyllis Boardman and Karen Kerr, were certified Montessori teachers. Children's House became a full affiliate of the American Montessori Society in l975. Then, in 1981, Children's House became a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization and has remained so to the present. Children's House has been active in the Montessori community here in Oklahoma throughout its existence. The school has actively participated in Montessori teacher training and internships. In addition, teachers at Children's House have served as observers and examiners in the teacher training program. Some of our past lead guides have published professional articles in the American Montessori Society, as well as writing for books published for teachers of young children.
In 2021 Children's House Montessori School changed its name to Classen Montessori School after moving to their forever home on Classen Boulevard. With the hopes of expanding into Middle School, Classen Montessori School is a new name to encompass all of our classrooms and program ages. Children's House is a secular private school and does not offer religious education, but welcomes families of all cultures. As an authentic Montessori school, we are able to offer the community a valuable and unique educational alternative.
