As we step into 2026, we’re returning to a core question: what becomes possible when teachers are trusted to lead—and children are known deeply?

Starting a school can feel overwhelming. For teachers who dream of creating a community-based Montessori school, there are countless decisions to make—from vision and leadership to community and facilities. At Wildflower, teachers don’t have to take that journey alone. Through our School Startup Journey, educators move step by step from idea to reality, supported by peers, mentors, and community partners.

Honeypot Montessori in Newark, New Jersey reopened this fall, carrying with it a story of resilience, persistence, and growth. “Honeypot is my love letter to Newark—the progressive, culturally rich city that shaped me as an adult and as an educator,” says founder and Head of School Dr. Deja Jones. To re-emerge with the embrace of Newark behind her is a celebration not only of persistence but of the city’s shared investment in Honeypot’s future.

This fall, as new Wildflower schools open across the country, we’re taking a moment to go inside the story of one. Born of deep partnership and shared purpose, Mountain Laurel Montessori embodies a radical idea: educators stay in the classroom, families are co-creators, and nature and Montessori are central.

Show your story in action. School tours are one of the most powerful—and authentic—fundraising tools available.

Learn how to fundraise for your school with a clear, compelling story and specific ask. Use these 5 questions to craft a pitch that moves supporters to act.

Curious about how to start a school? This step-by-step guide walks educators and community leaders through the key stages — from defining your vision and building your budget to securing a facility and opening your doors.

Discover how Wildflower’s professional development (PD) series is equipping Teacher Leaders with financial literacy tools to build and sustain successful schools.