Southern Stars Montessori Preschool
​part of the STARS Montessori & Educational Group. SUCCESSFULLY NURTURING YOUNG MINDS SINCE 2003

HOW DOES STARS ACCOMPLISH THIS?
Southern Stars Preschool (part of the STARS Montessori & Educational Group) is distinct in being a professionally run preschool with an eye to individualized attention. The "every child is the same" technique does not apply within our walls. We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt with changing times, and it shows in how teachers and staff respond to parents and children. Every child is a learner unto himself and our teachers are confident in their ability to engage each child successfully.

HERE ARE SOME WAYS SOUTHERN STARS STRIVES TO BE THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY'S NEEDS:

Safety: Our first priority at Southern Stars is to provide a safe and engaging learning environment. We know that by working together as a community, we can make our school a safe environment.

• Our doors remain closed and locked at all times (parents may enter the school by ringing the doorbell on the main door).
• All gates remain closed at all times.
• Each classroom has its own exterior door that ALWAYS remains locked and is utilized only during normal drop-off and pick-up times.
• Security cameras on the exterior of the building and playground.
• Visitors are by appointment only and require State issued ID.
• All windows and doors are coated on the inside with a clear ballistic film.
• Privacy screening protects the visibility of our playgroup and outdoor classroom.
• The parking lot and the front door are visible from Director’s office.
• Each classroom has walkie-talkies to communicate any needs or concerns with the Director throughout the day.
• Background checks are conducted on all staff, enrichment instructors, and therapist.
• IDs will be checked and validated with the approved check-out list.
• We utilize the Kriyo app to send daily communications, safety updates and any emergency notifications.
• There are seven evacuation routes depending on fire, safety, or weather emergencies. There are specific evacuation plans in place for the following emergencies: tornado, weather, police, or security-related matters.
• Student and Staff Safety drills are conducted monthly.

Accreditation: At Southern Stars, we accredit our teachers as opposed to the school. We are not NAEYC accredited because they follow a group mentality i.e. everyone goes to the bathroom at the same time, washes hands at the same time, eats and sleeps at the same time. We are Montessori so we follow an individualized approach.

Ratios: At Southern Stars, we always follow state-sanctioned ratios. There is safety in numbers/ratios. Southern Stars takes it one step further and has 2 floaters and a Director to help step in whenever needed.

Teacher’s Education Level: At Southern Stars, our teachers are very highly educated. Specifically, we have teachers with Bachelor’s in Arts, Bachelor’s in Childhood Psychology, and Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. Additionally, we have Montessori-certified teachers on our team who set the daily curriculum.

Outdoor Play Area: Southern Stars has a natural outdoor play area as well as a play structure for the children to enjoy during their outdoor time. We have an outdoor classroom where we do science experiments and have picnics. We also have sensory bins that contain either water or sand depending on the time of the year.

Meal Plan: Southern Stars’ executive chief has a culinary degree from TN State University and we offer several meal plan choices: gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan or bring your own meals. We work with your child’s food allergens to ensure no cross-contamination.

Communication: At Southern Stars, we utilize an app called Kriyo that allows communication directly to your child’s teacher. We post pictures throughout the day and let you know about your child’s activities such as food, toileting, napping etc.

Potty Training: At Southern Stars, our experienced teaching staff can help guide your family through potty training or partner with you in your personalized approach.

SOUTHERN STARS PRESCHOOL
​910 Wedgewood Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203
615-509-9423
southernstarsmontessori.net