HISTORY

Hiatt Farms Montessori was built on the Dyekman Farm, a multi-generation sheep farm homesteaded in the early 1900's. We are excited to maintain the agricultural legacy of the land and share it with children.

Hiatt Farms Montessori was originally conceived while Michelle and her husband Paul were living abroad in Bangkok, Thailand. Michelle was teaching at an international Montessori school and Jeff and Mary Hiatt (Paul’s parents) were pursuing various initiatives to give back to the community and preserve Colorado’s farming culture in their retirement. The idea of marrying the two passions, preserving a historic farm and offering the Montessori method in the Loveland area, captured their imaginations and never let go. Construction of the school began in October 2016, and the inaugural class began in August of 2018.

MISSION, VISION & VALUES

Mission

The focus of Hiatt Farms Montessori School is the “whole child.” The aim of a Montessori environment is to develop the social, emotional and intellectual development and well-being of each child depending on individual needs. Our methodology focuses less on pure academics and instead seeks to build independent, confident, and self-motivated children. We emphasize respect for others, oneself, and the environment as well as strong moral character and grit.

At Hiatt Farms Montessori School, we believe that a farm is a perfect environment for developing these traits. The children learn responsibility in caring for animals, find pride in growing fruits and vegetables, and develop a practical appreciation for our symbiotic relationship with the natural environment.

We also view our mission as creating global citizens—children cognizant of global cultures and issues while grounded in their local community. Multi-language fluency is one important aspect of this—beyond the practical advantages of bilingualism, we view fully bilingual environments as a necessary representation of the modern global community and an important part of the cosmopolitan worldview.

Vision

To become a model Montessori program recognized for developing independent, confident and self-motivated children who are future global citizens, grounded in a close connection to the natural world.

Values

Heart | Compassion, kindness and respect for every child, parent, staff member and living creature

Strong Communication | Respectful, honest and frequent communications that build trust and community

Integrity | Professionalism, personal accountability and strong moral character manifested in all aspects of our work

Excellence | High-fidelity Montessori experiences tailored to the needs of each child

Collaboration | A one-team mentality that encourages collective growth, support and resilience

Global Citizenship | An advocate for global thinking, equal treatment and equal opportunity, learning about and celebrating cultural differences and pluralism

Think and Act Boldly | Lead, inspire and empower positive change within the early childhood community