Mrs. Irma Letson founded Tempe Montessori in 1978 for children and families seeking an education for the whole child. As one of the first AMI schools in the phoenix Metro area, we have maintained a quality AMI Montessori program for children 3 months – 6th grade.

As a family owned and operated business Mrs. Irma has shared her passion for education with her daughters and granddaughters. In 2022, Mrs. Irmas granddaughter, Lauren Bolar became owner and Director of TMS. Lauren maintains a BS in Business Administration from Arizona State University and holds her AMI certification for children 0-6 years old as well as the Foundation courses for Elementary students and Administration Diplomas. As a Montessori student herself, she strives to create an environment of high-quality educational standards and overall development of healthy and whole social/ emotional development of the child.  Ms. Lauren loves to share her passion of Montessori Education with the community and has been featured in magazines and a local podcast

Tempe Montessori has served the children and families of our community for over 40 years with quality, respect and understanding of human development. Our diverse staff of AMI certified Lead Guides, continue their education and practices to aid the child in their development and needs.

Dr. Maria Montessori’s revolutionary pedagogy and philosophy aligned with the needs of the children. Recognized by the Association Montessori Internationale, we provide quality, high-fidelity programs for surrounding communities. Tempe Montessori is a private tuition-based school which maintains a high star rating with Arizona’s quality first, is AZDHS certified and accepts DES, ESA and STO as tuition payments.

At Tempe Montessori, your children are backed by our legacy as they create their own.