The Full Story

Champions of Inclusion

Families across Canada and BC report the same issue: if their child has support needs, they are denied services from preschools and daycares. Many families endure the heart-wrenching experience of being asked to leave a childcare center.

Families are not excluded at Island Montessori. Our school welcomes all and includes all. We prioritize the enrollment of children with disabilities, committing to policies around equal tuition regardless of support needs. We show our commitment to truth and reconciliation by prioritizing enrollment for indigenous students and reducing fees for indigenous families. We believe in the Montessori Method, which is grounded in the philosophy that every child has the capacity and motivation to learn according to their own strengths and capabilities.

For over 50 years, Island Montessori has been serving the community by being a warm, welcoming and wonderful place.

Mission

To nurture every child’s love of learning, while fostering their growth, independence, confidence and self esteem.
To ensure that all children, regardless of support needs, are welcome at our school.
To confirm that all staff, administration and volunteers are accountable for meeting the needs of all children.
To foster unique perspectives, through inclusive hiring processes and professional development.

Vision

To be champions of inclusive education, committed to non-biased enrollment practices. To provide caring and respectful early childhood education founded on Montessori principles.
To create a school community of diverse families, provide support in a way that serves them all, and create an environment where differences enhance our connection to each other.
To connect with the community around us to find likeminded partners, igniting the opportunity to spread our Mission & Vision further.

A letter from our Executive Director

Welcome to our school!

We are glad you are here and are excited to see what 2026 brings. There are lots of ways to get involved in the community here, from helping in the garden to serving on the Board.

We are dedicated to helping your child sprout into their best selves. As educators and caregivers we appreciate the responsibility that comes along with being some of the first humans your children learn from. We are lucky to have staff from all over the world, and look forward to learning about new and different cultural celebrations.

I can't promise your children will never ask to skip school (even I like days off). I can promise that when they get here they will be validated and included, appreciated for their individuality and spirit. We believe in furthering both self and the community with a non-judgmental attitude. I can confidently say that your children will be in safe and caring hands here, receiving a quality education, while enjoying their time spent learning.

We are always looking for supporters and like-minded organizations to partner with. We are a charity and a non-profit and rely on support from the community to continue to offer the best and most inclusive educational experience. Join us and advocate for a more inclusive future.

Looking forward to working with you!

Katey Konkin

Sydney Hofmeyr

" Katey, Emily, and the more senior educators have created an incredible environment of safety and love for small children to flourish and grow. I have a highly sensitive little one with big time separation anxiety and some other issues. They were so supportive from the start and when we encountered hurdles the staff were above and beyond in making sure we had a supportive plan. They are very inclusive and I would recommend this school 100 percent."