Our Additional Programs
At MMS, we know life doesn't operate on school hours just as we know learning doesn't end at the end of the school day.
That's why we offer programs to support families and to give children opportunities to continue their learning before and after school.
We also support families in the Junior High as they look towards high school. At MMS, we're dedicated to supporting students and their families for the long haul.
In This Section
Additional School Care (ASC)
Additional School Care (ASC) follows basic Montessori principles in terms of encouraging children to help and teach one another, to follow projects through to completion, to create their own activities, and to care for their environment.
With some restrictions, parents can choose to have their children participate in ASC through Full-year Package ASC, Reserved ASC, or Drop-in ASC. Check out the details below.
Pick-Up and Drop-Off Details
Morning ASC:
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Toddler: Registration took place during enrollment and is now closed.
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Primary: Primary children who would like to attend ASC in the morning must sign up through the Full-Year Package ASC program.
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Elementary: There is no charge or preregistration required. Students may be dropped off at the Primary Gate starting at 7:30. All students will go to the Hummingbird classroom until it is time to join their class.
Afternoon ASC:
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Toddler: There is no afternoon ASC offered for Toddler.
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Primary/Elementary: Reserved two weeks in advance and drop-in (please see drop-in instructions below).
Afternoon Drop-In Care Instructions:
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Sign up by 2:00 pm for Primary and 2:15 for Elementary on the day the care is needed through the Extended Care tab of the Parent Portal.
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Children who are registered by the deadlines will be accommodated for that day if at all possible.
Afternoon ASC Pick-Up Instructions:
All families will be required to enter campus through the Primary Gate, using the four digit pin code provided by the Office. Please call (415) 924-5388 for details. The Office closes by 4:00 pm on most days. If you need to contact ASC personnel after the office closes, please email Taz Pesso for Primary and Matt Stratton for Elementary.
Money Matters
For 2023-2024
Full-Year Package ASC
If you need daily childcare before school (Toddler and Primary) and/or after school until 6:00 p.m. (Primary and Elementary) for the entire school year, you will benefit from electing Full-Year Package ASC when you sign your Enrollment Agreement. The annual fee for Before School Care is $2,000 for Toddlers and Primary. There is no fee for Elementary. After School Care is $6,400 per student for both Primary and Elementary.
Reserved ASC
The Reserved ASC program allows families to reserve space at least two weeks in advance for the specific days and times that you need. The fee is $18 an hour. If a reservation is not canceled at least two weeks in advance or if a child no shows, there will be a $54 fee.
Note: Children who are registered in this way will be guaranteed space on a first-come, first-served basis.
Sign-Up for Reserved ASC:
Spaces in Reserved ASC must be reserved at least two weeks in advance through the Extended Care tab of the Parent Portal. If you do not sign up in the Parent Portal at least two weeks in advance, Drop-In ASC will be your only option.
Drop-In ASC
We are pleased to be able to offer a Drop-In option for the ASC program ($22 an hour in ½ hour increments) for those Primary and Elementary families who need occasional care. Same day sign ups must happen by 1:30 pm for Primary and Elementary. Space is limited.
Note: Drop-In for Morning ASC is not available for Toddler and Primary students. Primary children who would like to attend ASC in the morning must sign up through the Full-Year Package ASC program.
Cancellation Policy for Drop-In
To cancel a session, use the Parent Portal and click on the Extended Care tab.
You must cancel by 1:30 pm for Primary and Elementary or we'll have to charge a $66 cancellation fee. Please note that the Office and Registrar are unable to make cancellations after these deadline times.
Details about Primary ASC
The afternoon ASC program for Full-Day Primary children starts after school and ends at 6:00 pm in the Song Sparrow classroom. Our Primary ASC program echoes the Montessori day while allowing for different kinds of activities that families would typically do at home together after a long day at school. ASC is a play-based activity time. When children arrive, they will have the opportunity to enjoy and explore a wide variety of manipulative toys, crafts, games, books, musical instruments and outdoor play on the grassy area and play structure.
They also have the opportunity to enjoy healthy light snacks such as rice cakes, sun butter, apples and carrots.
In ASC, we continue to practice Montessori grace and courtesy skills. Our program builds the skills to help students respectfully interact with each other and our materials. When students are finished with an activity, they will put it away neatly so it is ready for the next person before moving on to a new activity. When finished snacking, students will wash their dishes before returning to play.
When parents arrive for pick up, please use the drop off area gate. You will use the parent code that allows access during the ASC hours and go directly to the Song Sparrow classroom to sign out and wait for your child. Please expect to wait a few minutes allowing time for your child to independently wrap up and put away their activity. We teach our students that ASC is closed for them, and it is time to promptly clean up when their grown ups arrive. Please note that the play structure is also closed for them supporting smooth departures.
Afternoon Primary ASC will be headed up by Taz Pesso who brings years of experience and boundless joy to this work.
Details about Elementary ASC
ASC is available for Elementary students before school from 7:30 a.m. to the start of class and after school from 3:15 – 6:00 p.m. For Morning ASC, Elementary students go to the Hummingbird classroom. Elementary students who need care prior to school may drop in on the morning that care is needed (there is no charge and no pre-registration is required).
The home base for the afternoon ASC program for Elementary children is also the Hummingbird classroom. The students are offered a variety of games, arts and crafts, cooking projects, and other activities (both indoor and out).
Snack will be prepared by the children and served around 4:00 each day.
Afternoon Elementary ASC will be headed up by Matt Stratton and supported by Frida Kolozsvari. The Elementary ASC environment has been carefully prepared to become a joyful extension of the workday where elementary children from all four classrooms can come together to collaborate and connect with one another. Blending outdoor and indoor play, elementary ASC will be full of cooking, games, art, and science. It's a place where children can continue to build a practice society and further develop relationships across classrooms.
Bayside Afternoon Classes (BAC)
Each semester, we offer Bayside Afternoon Classes for Full-Day Primary (4 years old and older) and Elementary students.
The Registration Lottery for Fall 2025 classes opens on Friday, May 23, and closes on Friday, March 30 at 8:30 am.
Spring BAC starts the week of September 15, 2025.
Once you have registered and your child has been selected through the BAC Lottery on May 30, 2025, your enrollment is considered final. By completing registration, you are committing to full payment for the class, and invoices will be sent out on May 30, 2025.
Refunds will not be issued once registration is confirmed on May 30, 2025.
Be sure to register for each class separately. For more about the lottery system, click the tab above.
How To Register
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Log into your Parent Portal.
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Go to the “Extended Care” tab.
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In the “Participants” sub-tab, select your child's name for the correct BAC session and click "View Signups."
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On the next page, make your BAC selection(s).
How to Opt Out or Cancel a BAC Session
- Log into your Parent Portal.
- Go to the “Extended Care” tab.
- In the “Participants” sub-tab, select your child's name for the correct BAC session and click "View Signups."
- On the next page in the Session Calendar, click on the day(s) you wish to cancel and select “Opt Out.”
Fall 2025 Options
Primary
Outdoor Adventures with Kathy |for Full-Day primary children 4-6 years old
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Tuesdays, 3:00-4:00 pm
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8 sessions: September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, November 4
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Class minimum/maximum: 6/12
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Registration: $375
Join us for an engaging outdoor class where children explore their surroundings through a variety of sensory experiences. We'll set off toward Ring Mountain, collecting small treasures along the way for discussion. This class offers a chance for children to relax in nature and connect deeply with their environment, listening, feeling, smelling, and observing.
Children are welcome to bring a snack to enjoy before class. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring a hat, a water bottle, and comfortable clothing that can get dirty.
Kathy Winkler has been teaching young children for over 20 years. She is currently the Movement Specialist at MMS and previously taught Kindergarten for 16 years. She holds a BA in Economics from UC Davis and a Multiple Subjects Credential from UOP. Passionate about the outdoors, Kathy enjoys trail running, ocean swimming, paddleboarding, and yoga. For questions, contact Kathy at kwinkler@marinmontessori.org.
Mini Camps In Action with Nova |For Full-Day Primary children 4-6 years old
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Tuesdays, 3:00-4:00 pm
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8 sessions: September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, November 4
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Class minimum/maximum: 6/12
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Registration: $375
In this exhilarating multi-week series, kids will dive into the exciting world of sports, exploring a variety of games and activities designed to build their athletic skills. From soccer to basketball, and track to gymnastics, they'll get a taste of it all while enjoying non-stop fun with friends. In "Mini Champs in Action," children will discover the joy of teamwork, the thrill of setting and achieving goals, and the confidence that comes with staying active and healthy. Along the way, they'll improve their coordination, agility, and sportsmanship, all while having a blast.Nova is a multifaceted professional who excels in both martial arts and creative design. A dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, Nova loves sharing her passion with children aged 4–8, fostering empowerment and physical fitness in her youth classes. Beyond jiu-jitsu, she has designed and implemented comprehensive youth sports programs in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and more, inspiring young athletes across various disciplines. With a bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Nova also mentors aspiring creatives and volunteers regularly at her children's elementary school, assisting with art projects. Her unique blend of fitness and art expertise allows her to creatively inspire and challenge kids to be themselves, try their best, and have fun. For questions about the class, please contact Celia at celia@grasshopperkids.com.
Primary Spanish with Adriana Romo |FOr Full-Day Primary children 4-6 years old
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Wednesdays, 3:00-4:00 pm
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8 sessions: September 17, 24, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, November 5
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Class minimum/maximum: 6/12
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Registration: $375
Our after-school Spanish program immerses children in language learning through engaging, co-curricular lessons. Using fun oral activities for conversation practice and task-based instruction, the class will also emphasize Spanish reading materials. Each session begins with a greeting circle, followed by a story and a lesson. Children will explore age-appropriate songs, projects, and hands-on activities while experiencing authentic Spanish food, music, and traditions. The goal is to foster a love for the Spanish language and its vibrant culture.
Adriana Romo has eight years of early childhood education experience and holds a degree in Early Childhood Education from Diablo Valley College. She is certified through the North American Montessori Center and discovered her passion for literacy while participating in a program that used Ballet Folklórico—a traditional Mexican dance—to teach Spanish. For the past four years, she has integrated Spanish curriculum into Montessori settings, bringing enthusiasm and joy to language learning. For questions, contact Adriana at aromo@marinmontessori.org.
Rhythm and Dance with Rose | For Full-Day primary children 4-6 years old
- Thursdays, 3:00 - 4:00 pm
- 8 sessions: September 18, 25, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, November 6
- Class minimum/maximum: 6/12
- Registration: $375
- Materials fee: $20
Rhythm and Dance is a fun, play-based musical class, where children learn and practice rhythm, language games and dance. Each week builds on a theme, using music from many genres, countries, and rhythm. Using multi-sensory learning to engage gross and fine motor skills, build coordination, we have lots of fun making beats, learning moves, dancing, and singing together!
Rose Martin is a Primary Support Specialist at MMS with over a decade of experience teaching music and movement to preschool-aged children. A certified Kindermusik director, she brings a deep understanding of early childhood musical development. Rose holds a BA in History from the City University of New York and a Master of Architecture from Yale University. For questions about the class, please reach out to Rose at rmartin@marinmontessori.org.
Think Like a Scientist with Chigusa | For Full-Day primary children 4-6 years old
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Thursdays, 3:00 - 4:00 pm
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8 sessions: September 18, 25, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, November 6
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Class minimum/maximum: 6/12
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Registration: $375
Embark on a thrilling expedition into the world of discovery! This series is perfect for curious minds eager to dive into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) adventures. Through hands-on experiments and interactive activities, kids will get to unleash their inner scientist and explore the wonders of the world around them. They'll learn to ask questions, observe patterns, and make exciting predictions.From bubbling concoctions to creative building challenges, each session offers plenty of opportunities for fun and learning. Kids will not only get to discover new concepts but also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will light up their path to future exploration. With their lab goggles on and imagination soaring high, young scientists will have a blast unleashing their curiosity and creativity in a world where knowledge knows no bounds!
Chigusa loves working with kids, has worked as a children's art teacher for 5 years, and has many passions to share! Among them are jewelry-making, key-chain-making, Sumi Calligraphy, painting, gardening, Japanese language and culture, making sushi, and learning about animals and the outdoors. Chigusa is also a talented athlete, particularly in swimming which she's coached for many years. As a student, she was also a member of the competitive basketball and Kendo (Japanese martial arts) teams. For questions about the class, please contact Celia at celia@grasshopperkids.com.
Elementary
Lacrosse Skills with Amy | FOR ELEMENTARY CHILDREN (1ST-6TH YEAR)
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Tuesdays, 3:30 - 4:30 pm
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8 sessions: September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, November 4
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Class minimum/maximum: 6/16
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Registration: $375
Come play the fastest game on two feet! Lacrosse with Coach Amy is open to all elementary-aged children, offering a fantastic opportunity to learn the FUNdamentals of lacrosse in a fun, creative, supportive, and engaging environment. Coach Amy's expertise and passion ensure an enriching experience for every child. From complete beginners to those with some lacrosse know-how, everyone will build confidence and skills while having a blast!Led by the renowned Coach Amy McCleary, Founder & Owner of STICK WITH IT! Lacrosse, three-time World Cup coach and Hall of Fame inductee. This program covers cradling, ground balls, catching, throwing, and shooting through dynamic drills, interactive games, and friendly small-sided situations. Join us for Lacrosse and watch your child thrive on the field! For Inquiries, reach out to Amy McCleary at coachamymccleary@stickwithit.com. To learn more, visit https://www.stickwithit.com
Culinary Exploration with Adeline |For Elementary Children (1st-6th Year)
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Tuesdays, 3:30 - 4:45 pm (1 hr 15 Min Class)
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8 sessions: September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, November 4
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Class minimum/maximum: 6/16
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Registration: $375
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Materials fee: $25
This elevated culinary experience is designed to challenge, inspire, and expand the skills of young chefs. Unlike previous culinary offerings with Adeline, this class will introduce a broader range of ingredients, techniques, and flavors. Students will work with components such as meats, spices, and dairy, and explore recipes that may be new or unfamiliar. While this may be an adjustment (especially for more selective eaters) the class will encourage curiosity and create a safe and supportive space for culinary exploration.
Adeline's goal is to help children grow in confidence and creativity in the kitchen, challenge their palates in a fun and approachable way, and to leave class proud of what they've made. A food enthusiast herself, Adeline's passion and enthusiasm comes naturally. She approaches cooking from the heart with her love for culinary exploration and continues to inspire those around her to be adventurous and confident in their own food journey. For questions about the class, contact Adeline at ashrout@marinmontessori.org
Elementary Spanish with Andrea |FOR ELEMENTARY CHILDREN (1ST-6TH YEAR)
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Wednesdays, 3:30 - 4:30 pm
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8 sessions: September 17, 24, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, November 5
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Class minimum/maximum: 6/14
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Registration: $375
This fall, we’re offering a new format of Elementary Spanish, focused on learning through hands-on experiences. In this after-school class, children will join Andrea to build, experiment, and create. The goal is to provide a natural and immersive environment for language development. The class will integrate elements of science, art, craft, and cultural exploration, encouraging creativity and collaboration. It’s a thoughtful space where children engage deeply, and Spanish becomes part of their process and expression.
Andrea brings over a decade of experience in education, working with children of diverse ages in various roles, including AMI Montessori Guide, Spanish teacher, preschool caregiver, and humanitarian volunteer. Growing up in a family of educators, her passion for teaching began early. She attended an Italian-founded school, where she gained rich, multicultural experiences that shaped her approach to education.
During university, Andrea volunteered in underserved communities, creating libraries and workshops for children and mothers. After specializing in Europe and working in international banking, she was drawn back to her true calling—education. She pursued Montessori pedagogy training and, for the past five years, has taught French and Spanish as an AMI Montessori Guide in elementary education. Passionate about fostering deep connections with children and families, she believes in the transformative power of education to bridge cultures and enrich lives. For questions about the class, contact Andrea at abeltran@marinmontessori.org.
Wool Explorers with Bridgette |FOR ELEMENTARY CHILDREN (1ST-6TH YEAR)
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Wednesday, 3:30 - 4:30 pm
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8 sessions: September 17, 24, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, November 5
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Class minimum/maximum: 6/14
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Registration: $375
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Materials Fee: $20
Wool Explorers invites children to discover sculpture through the warmth and texture of wool. Using two approachable felting techniques, students will learn to shape natural fibers into three-dimensional forms. Along the way, they’ll explore fabric, embroidery, and mixed media, crafting unique pieces each week while developing fine motor skills, creative confidence, and a deep appreciation for working with their hands.Guided by fiber artist Bridgette Turner, students will dive into the world of texture, form, and color through hands-on projects. Drawing inspiration from artists like Nick Cave, Sheila Hicks, and Faith Ringgold, Bridgette blends traditional and contemporary techniques to bring soft sculpture to life. Whether weaving structures, shaping sculptural garments, or crafting abstract forms, she encourages students to tell stories and engage the senses through their work. For questions about the class, contact Bridgette at bturner@marinmontessori.org.
Run Club with Kate |FOR ELEMENTARY CHILDREN (1ST-6TH YEAR)
- Thursdays, 3:30 - 4:30 pm
- 8 sessions: September 18, 25, October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, November 6
- Class minimum/maximum: 6/14
- Registration: $375
Run Club is a high-energy class designed to help children build endurance, confidence, and a lifelong love of movement. Led by Kate, the class will explore the basics of pacing, form, and goal-setting through fun games and trail adventures around campus. Each week, runners will track their progress, learn about the importance of warm-ups and recovery, and develop a sense of self through group runs and team-building activities. Whether sprinting across the field or jogging through the trails of Ring Mountain, this class encourages students to find joy in running while fostering perseverance, focus, and a healthy connection to their bodies.
Kate holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with an environmental emphasis, an Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Elementary diploma from Montessori Northwest, and a master’s degree in Montessori education from Whitworth University.
Kate began recreational running with laps around her preschool play yard. This progressed to a childhood filled with track and cross country meets and eventually culminated in four years of competition as a heptathlete and middle distance runner at her university. These days, she enjoys leisurely runs and casual road races. Kate’s goal is to share the rewarding experience of going out of your comfort zone, the sense of community that can be found in individual sport, and exercise as an opportunity for meditation and reflection. For questions about the class, contact Kate at kpicanco@marinmontessori.org.
About the BAC Lottery System
BAC Class Sign-up Registration
Registration Window: A designated one-week window will be announced for all sessions, during which all participating families can register their children for their desired after-school classes.
Lottery System: Once the registration window closes, a randomized lottery will be conducted for classes with more applicants than available spaces. All registered families for an oversubscribed class will have an equal chance of securing a spot, regardless of when they submitted their registration. You will automatically be placed on the waitlist when you sign up – please ignore your waitlist number. Your waitlist number is not an indication of being signed up.
Notification: Shortly after the lottery, families will be notified of their child's enrollment status (enrolled or waitlisted).
Waitlist: A waitlist will be established for oversubscribed classes, and enrolled families may choose to add their child's name to the list in case of openings.
We believe this system offers several benefits, including:
Fairer Access: Ensures equal opportunity for all families to secure a spot in their desired classes.
Reduced Stress: Eliminates the need for families to rush and be online at specific times.
Transparency: Provides a clear and predictable registration process.