Santa Fe Montessori Learning Collective
A Homeschool Enrichment & Tutoring Program for Ages 5–12
We are excited to welcome you to Santa Fe Montessori Learning Collective (SFMLC), operating under Santa
Fe Montessori Childcare Program. SFMLC provides a warm, engaging enrichment experience through creative, play-based, project-led, and
community-centered learning. We are committed to making quality Montessori-aligned education accessible to homeschool families in Santa Fe, regardless of income or background.
We teach mindful and curious students to embrace the love of learning!
At Santa Fe Montessori Learning Collective, we believe that the best education awakens a relationship —with the world, with community, and with oneself. Learning cannot be separated from care. A child who does not feel safe and seen cannot learn. A curriculum that does not honor a child’s identity and heritage cannot
truly educate.
We draw on two powerful wisdom traditions: Montessori pedagogy and the Indigenous Hawaiian framework of Papakū Makawalu. Together, these traditions teach us that everything in the universe is interconnected, that children learn best through direct and embodied experience, and that knowledge carries responsibility. Our students learn to observe with patience, think from multiple perspectives, work with their hands, and carry their knowledge with care.
As a homeschool enrichment and tutoring program, we partner deeply with families. Parents are the primary educators, and we serve as your support team — offering creative enrichment, academic tutoring, and a nurturing community where children can grow and thrive.
Our Approach
Our educational foundation blends the proven Montessori method with the holistic Papakū Makawalu framework, creating a learning environment that honors both individual discovery and our connection to the world around us.
Papakū Makawalu is an Indigenous framework that encourages us to look at the world through three houses: the sky (Papahulilani), the earth and ocean (Papahulihonua), and all living things (Papanuiāmoku). This looks like:
Child-led exploration within a prepared, natural learning environment.
Hands-on discovery with artisanal tools and diverse natural materials.
Deep observation of local seasonal rhythms and environmental shifts.
Collaborative community projects rooted in mutual care and respect.
Weekly Enrichment Schedule
Tutoring & Individual Support
Our tutoring focus is rooted in Montessori principles, providing personalized instruction in literacy, numeracy, and core academic skills. We work alongside homeschool families to support their child's unique educational journey.
Private Piano Lessons
We are pleased to offer private piano lessons for students interested in developing their musical talents within our learning environment. Lessons are available upon request.
Monday
Dance / Creative Movement
Tuesday
Math Tutoring
Wednesday
Music Enrichment
Thursday
Reading Tutoring
Curriculum & Daily Rhythm
The Santa Fe Montessori Learning Collective (SFMLC) is a community-based, Montessori-adjacent
homeschool enrichment program serving children ages five to ten in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Our curriculum draws on two powerful wisdom traditions — Montessori pedagogy and the Indigenous Hawaiian framework of Papakū Makawalu — while grounding every lesson in the land, ecology, and multicultural heritage of Northern New Mexico.
Through project-based and place-based learning, children develop academic skills, cultural knowledge, and a reciprocal relationship with the world around them. We operate from a foundational belief: care, belonging, and learning are inseparable. A child who does not feel safe and seen cannot learn. A curriculum that does not honor a child’s identity and heritage cannot truly educate.
The Three Houses
Papahulilani
The Sky Above
Papahulihonua
The Earth & Water
Papahānaumoku Living Things
The space from above our heads to where the stars sit — inclusive of the sun, moon, stars, planets, winds, clouds, and the measurement of time and space.
The ongoing study of the natural earth and water — its development, transformation, and evolution through natural causes.
All things that are born, reproduce, grow, and pass through the cycles of life and death.
Daily Rhythm
Morning Gathering
Community circle outdoors. Children observe the sky, note the weather, check moon journals, and set intentions. (Papahulilani)
Work Period
Uninterrupted Core Montessori time. Children choose their work from prepared materials. Co- teachers observe, guide, and give individual and small-group lessons.
Project-Based Exploration
Hands-on projects in the garden, nature walks, building, cooking, cultural arts, and field investigations. (Papahulihonua & Papahānaumoku)
Enrichment & Expression
Art, music, movement, and storytelling deepen the day’s themes. Includes specialist enrichment sessions (see Weekly Schedule).
Closing Circle
Reflection, sharing, and gratitude. Children practice the makawalu skill of sharing different perspectives on the same experience.
Online Program Time
Built Into Every Day
Each day includes dedicated time for children to log into their online accredited program, if your family chooses one. This is built into the daily schedule so that homeschool requirements are met
right here at SFMLC — no extra work at home needed.
Every child’s schedule is individually tailored to their needs, learning pace, and program requirements.
Fridays: Community-Led
Field Learning
Fridays are reserved for community-led field experiences: local farms, cultural sites, artists’ studios,
natural areas, and community organizations. Family members are invited to lead or co-lead Friday experiences, extending intergenerational learning beyond the classroom.
Program Hours & Tuition
With ECECD Wrap-Around Contract
$950
Monday–Thursday
8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Without Wrap-Around Contract
$1,200
Monday–Friday
9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Registration Fee
$600 one-time fee per student.
- Flexible late pickup options available to support working families.
- Portions of wrap-around care may qualify for New Mexico’s Universal Childcare (ECECD) funding.
Homeschool & Accredited Programs
Important: Enrollment in an Accredited Program is Highly Recommended — But Not RequiredvNew Mexico law allows families to homeschool without enrolling in a formal accredited program. SFMLC welcomes all registered homeschool families, regardless of whether they use an outside curriculum provider.
That said, we strongly encourage families to enroll in an accredited program. Accreditation ensures your child earns an official transcript, protects their eligibility for college admissions, scholarships, and dual enrollment, and gives your homeschool legal standing across state lines. See our Accredited Program Options section below for a full comparison.
Bridgeway Academy
Best for flexible, parent-led Montessori-inspired learning with deep customization options.
Acellus Academy
Best for self-paced video lessons and core mastery using an intuitive digital learning platform.
Guidepost Montessori
Best for integrated Montessori curriculum and comprehensive school-at-home support services.
James Madison Online
Best for high-quality, regionally accredited distance learning with a flexible academic schedule.
