Guiding Light Montessori - Pleasant Hill, California

Hedieh G.

I can't say enough about the incredible experience we've had at this school. My daughter started here at the age of 3, and at that time, she was a very shy child who wasn’t yet potty trained and spoke in short phrases. In the time she's been here, she has blossomed—she quickly learned to potty train (within weeks), gained confidence, and developed remarkable language skills.

The school provides a warm, nurturing environment that not only teaches our children but also supports and guides us as parents. My daughter comes home singing educational songs and shares thoughtful life lessons she’s learned. I’m always amazed at how effortlessly the teachers make learning seem, and this is truly a testament to the passion and dedication of the Owner/Operator, Justina.

One of the unique things about this school is the emphasis on everyday life skills. Beyond academics, my daughter has taken a strong interest in activities like cutting, folding, and cleaning, and she's already proficient in basic practical tasks that many children her age haven’t yet explored. Seeing her help with everyday skills at home has been wonderful.

I am constantly impressed by her vocabulary, her ability to express complex thoughts, and her understanding of sentence structure. She’s fully proficient in writing her letters and numbers, and she's already working through first-grade-level math workbooks! I sometimes feel like I'm learning new things from her!

We are incredibly grateful to have found this school, and we couldn’t be happier with our decision to enroll her here. The Montessori method has proven to be a perfect fit for our family!

Anton V. O.

Our family has been very pleased with Guiding Light Montessori, and we are happy to be part of the GLM family for many years now. Our daughter started when she was three and stayed through Kindergarten (now in second grade). She thrived in the environment, and she made the transition to public school without issue. Our second child, a son, is at GLM now, too, and has had a similarly wonderful experience.

It should be noted that the woman at the helm, Justina, does an absolutely wonderful job keeping the environment safe, engaging and welcoming. The rest of the staff has also been great, patient and attentive. I had limited exposure to Montessori methodology before our kids started at GLM, and I'm now a strong proponent. Justina does a wonderful job implementing Dr. Montessori's methods, but also understands that we live in the modern world and makes adjustments, depending on the child or situation 🙂

Lots to consider, of course, when selecting a preschool, and Justina has always been really great about making herself available to answer any questions.

For any family in the area considering sending their child to preschool, I'd recommend checking out Guiding Light.

Michelle S.

I hope my words convey the deep respect I hold for Guiding Light Montessori, and its exceptional staff, particularly Justine, the owner and Head Teacher, and her dedicated handyman Hubby. Their unwavering commitment to creating a nurturing environment for children to flourish, grow, and gain confidence is truly commendable.
Which brings you to my story. Earlier this year I lost my adult son, he left behind my beautiful grandaughter who now lives with my husband and me. Her world changed from one day to the next and life as she knew it was different and absent. Being an only child who desperately needed structure and friends, we enrolled her at Guiding Light Montessori. It was a rough 1st week, and when I say rough that is being softly put! Justine was a Godsend; she gently guided and helped my granddaughter feel safe, welcome, and loved! It didn’t take long for that transition to happen because of Justine's genuine heart for the grace of children.
These early experiences play a crucial role in shaping our children's self-confidence. My granddaughter has learned to trust that her feelings are respected, welcomed, and loved at Guiding Light Montessori.
The education and daily experiences at Guiding Light are beyond measure. I do have to circle back to the tender care the children receive daily. Because of that, the children are open to receiving the teachings. My granddaughter comes home singing and sharing; she wants to do everything all by herself—a true reflection of a Montessori student. I am beyond grateful and feel completely blessed. Thank you, Justine, and every wonderful teacher who helps guide these little people. Your work is truly appreciated!
With Sincere Gratitude,
Jim and Michelle Service

Parmiss K. C.

My son has been attending Guiding Light Montessori for over a year and my husband and I could not be happier watching his emotional, physical and intellectual development. Ms. Justina has been so supportive, and an enormous resource to our family, always making the time, fostering a great sense of community. I feel so blessed to have my son be a part of such an amazing community of teachers, parents and peers.

Sarah J.

Guiding Light Montessori has been a second home for both of my children, and for our whole family really, for the past 7 years. It is the most loving, nurturing school we could have asked for and I cannot recommend it enough. Ms. Justina and the staff love the children as their own, and keep them busy, happy and learning all day long. We are so grateful for the school and community we've built there!

Connie D.

Our son has attended Guiding Light for 3 years now, and it's been a nurturing and caring environment that has fostered curiosity, learning, and friendship for our son. Ms. Justina and the teachers put in so much care and thought to make sure the environment is safe and open for all students. We love the school so much that our youngest son will be starting there in the fall soon!

Kian A.

Guiding light has been the educational home for two of our kids. Our eldest is in second grade and because of the fundamentals she learned at GLM she's reading at almost a fifth-grade level. Our second daughter is still at GLM and is on the same track.

Aside from academic excellence, Justina and her staff provide a fun and safe environment. We've never worried about dropping our kids off. They manage disagreements between kids in a way that helps build relationships and social skills. Discipline is handled similarly: firmly, but in a way that develops the kids.

The other families involved at GLM are fantastic. It's a great community to be involved with. Justina also hosts parenting development nights that help build relationships and skills at home.

Overall, there's nowhere else I would want to send my kids. I think you'll feel the same way.

Chau T.

GLM has felt like a 2nd home to our family. Our son attended for 3 years and we have witnessed so much social emotional and academic growth in him. He absolutely loves attending every day and is so eager and excited to learn. The culture of the preschool is nurturing, loving and instills a growth mindset. The director Justina is responsive to any needs and supports parents through the challenges of this age group. The parent community is friendly and caring. Our son and us have made lifelong friends here. I would highly recommend this preschool to any family seeking out a safe, communicative, and personalized experience.