New Parents

We’re so happy you’re considering Gems of the Earth Montessori Academy (GEMA) for your child. This page is designed to help new families understand how enrollment works, what’s included in tuition, and what to expect once your child begins.

What GEMA Offers Parents

Parent Visits (Before Enrollment)

Parents are welcome to visit GEMA between 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM without your child to observe the environment and ask questions.

After your visit, if you decide to enroll your child, you may choose one of the following options:

Enrollment Options

Option 1: One-Week Trial (No Registration Yet)

You may place your child in GEMA for a one-week trial period during school hours (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM).

To begin the trial:

  • Parents must complete the Riverside County Health & Safety forms
  • A one-week payment of $250 is required

This option allows your child to experience the classroom before committing to full enrollment.

Option 2: Parent + Child Visit (Short Introduction)

You may schedule a visit with your child for up to 2 hours, during school hours, to help your child feel comfortable in the space.

Tuition & Registration

As we officially welcome your child into GEMA, the $50 (per student) registration fee will be added to the first month’s tuition.

Monthly Tuition

  • $250 per week/$1,000 per month
  • Payment accepted via Zelle

We here at GEMA also offer extended hours for working parents. Please contact us to learn more.

What’s Included (No Extra Material Fees!)

GEMA does not charge for classroom materials. Your child will have access to a rich learning environment that includes:

Learning Materials

  • Workbooks (kept at school for easy reference)
  • Readers and daily reading/comprehension work
  • Handouts, maps, and keepsake learning materials

Project & Classroom Supplies

  • Art and craft materials
  • Paper, pencils, and coloring tools
  • Outdoor play materials
  • Constructive and imaginative play materials

We also periodically add high-quality learning materials to the curriculum throughout the year.

Special Events & Classroom Needs

  • Seasonal and calendar celebrations (Valentine’s Day, etc.)
  • Toiletries and classroom essentials

Meals & Personal Items

Parents should provide:

  • A packed lunch
  • A bottle of water
  • A pair of indoor shoes (these will stay at GEMA)

✨ Snacks are available at GEMA if your child gets hungry during the day.

The Importance of Time & Routine ⏰

Parents, please help your child succeed by being organized and prompt.
Learning to respect time is an essential part of building strong life skills—our day is measured by time, and routine supports independence.

The GEMA School Day & Montessori Approach

GEMA runs like a private school, and the guide is with the students throughout the day. Even lunchtime is meaningful—we eat together as a group and practice:

  • ethics
  • kindness and respect
  • responsibility and community

Leadership & Confidence Building

Every student gets opportunities to practice leadership qualities and will be recognized for their efforts in age-appropriate ways.

Progress Updates (Not Traditional Testing)

Montessori education does not rely on frequent testing or standard report cards.
Your child is unique, and growth is best understood through observation, communication, and partnership.

We offer parent/teacher conferences throughout the year to:

  • share progress
  • discuss goals
  • make adjustments together

Holidays, Time Off & School Calendar

GEMA observes:

  • All Federal Holidays
  • Additional time off for religious beliefs

A full school-year calendar is provided at the beginning of the year, and we do our best to accommodate family needs whenever possible.

Yearly Schedule & Summer School

GEMA operates for 10 months per year.
The two months off are chosen with parent participation and input.

Optional Summer School

GEMA offers 4 weeks of Summer School if 4 or more families enroll.

  • Tuition remains $1,000 per month

Family Vacation Time

Families may take up to 4 weeks of vacation time each year.

Enrollment Hold Fee

To keep your child’s place reserved, GEMA holds a $100 enrollment hold to maintain an open spot.

Our Promise 💎

This partnership between your family and GEMA supports the development of a child who is confident, capable, and motivated by their own gifts.

Together, we help children grow into the GEMS of the Earth.