The Hillsboro School

The Hillsboro School is a private, non-profit, non-religiously affiliated school in Helena, Alabama. Established in 2017, The Hillsboro School developed to meet the need in Helena and the surrounding area for a private, comprehensive Montessori primary and secondary school that did not have a religious orientation. While we are a newer school and as such in the process of seeking accreditation, the Hillsboro School draws on a group of teachers with substantial experience in teaching in multiple environments.  Our teachers have over thirty five years of collective experience in Montessori classrooms, as well as a combination of advanced educational degrees, Montessori training, and International Baccalaureate training.

The Hillsboro School provides a fantastic opportunity for children to learn in the method developed by Maria Montessori over a hundred years ago. Focusing on a child-centered curriculum, Montessori believed strongly in fostering student independence, curiosity, and leadership through respecting children. Furthermore, we base our philosophy and curricula on current research regarding best practices. The Hillsboro School draws on these philosophies and methods as well as a developed integrated, hands-on integrated high school curriculum that allows students to learn as they address applied questions and engage with the world around them.

Our main campus is situated on 30 beautiful acres. We offer an inviting environment where students learn based on their capabilities, rather than being limited by age. Our students are given the opportunity to experience and apply “real world” knowledge and skills.  We are the only Montessori school in the Birmingham area that serves preschool through high school.

As a member school of the American Montessori Society, the International Montessori Council and the Alabama Independent School Association, our mission is to provide our students with individualized attention to ignite their curiosity, foster compassion and inspire their creativity.  We prepare our preschool through high school students for fulfilling and purposeful lives.

Hillsboro students learn how to learn, and develop a curiosity that lasts a lifetime. The low student to teacher ratio ensures that students receive individual instruction. Because of this, students gain the confidence to ask questions to understand what is being taught, instead of rote memorization. They earn independence and gain confidence in solving problems on their own. As a result, our students learn to persist when solutions do not come easily. In our multi-age classrooms, students learn leadership, community and collaboration as well as academics.  On our beautiful campus, they have opportunities for outdoor lessons, take daily hikes, work in our 1 acre garden, and care for chickens and rabbits.