Near Southside Montessori, directed by Fairmount Montessori founder Emily McDermott, offers thoughtful, community-centered childcare and Montessori education for children ages 6 weeks through 6 years in Fort Worth’s Near Southside neighborhood.

Rooted in Montessori philosophy, our program honors each child’s natural curiosity, independence, and unique potential through a warm, child-led approach designed to foster confidence, creativity, emotional intelligence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Inspired by Maria Montessori’s vision of Cosmic Education, we guide children in developing a meaningful understanding of both themselves and the interconnected world around them through hands-on learning, storytelling, purposeful exploration, and thoughtfully prepared environments.

Near Southside Montessori was built from a desire to create something more intentional for Fort Worth families; a place where children are deeply known, genuinely supported, and encouraged to thrive at their own pace within a culture of respect, inclusion, and care.

Located in a beautifully restored space in Fort Worth’s vibrant South Main district, our school blends time-honored Montessori principles with the creativity and energy of one of the city’s most dynamic communities.

We are currently welcoming enrollment inquiries for Summer and Fall 2026, with limited availability.

“Serving Families, From Seed to Sprout”

• Near Southside Montessori is proud to admit students of any race, color, nationality, creed, and ethnic origin(s) to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at our school and in the administration of the educational and admissions policies.