Hopper Creek Montessori has been part of Napa Valley for forty years. We take children ages two through six, keep our classes small, and let each child follow the work that holds their attention.
Class sizes run from six to twelve children, with one to two teachers in the room.
Ages 2–3
Age-appropriate work that builds problem solving, language, emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and comfort in a classroom.
3, 4, or 5 days a week. Potty training is not required to attend.
Ages 3–6
A full Montessori environment where each child moves at their own pace with a teacher alongside them, building independence and responsibility.
4 or 5 days a week.
Ages 5–6
An advanced year for our Pre-K graduates, adding tool-skill work that sharpens fine motor control alongside the core Montessori materials.
5 days a week, or earlier when a child is ready.
Ten areas run through every classroom. A child may spend a morning on one of them or move between several.
A typical day. The rhythm holds, though the details shift with the children and the weather.
Children settle in with childcare activities until the day begins.
Children choose the work that interests them.
Served in a way that encourages healthy habits and doing it themselves.
Stories, songs, and activities together.
Play and activities that build gross motor and social skills.
Eaten as a group, with independence and conversation encouraged.
Children nap, or work on activities that interest them.
Chosen work again, with snack served during this time.
Stories, songs, and group activities.
Outside again until families arrive. A snack is served.
Other day combinations are available. Ask us and we will work out what fits your family.
$1,250 / month
$800 / month
We admit on a rolling basis, so you can apply and start at any point in the year.
We would rather you see the classrooms and meet the teachers before you apply. Visits can be in person or virtual, and it is the easiest time to ask anything on your mind. Email us, or call Brenna at (330) 904-4562.
The application is available online. Send the completed form to hoppercreekmontessori1@gmail.com, or hand it to a staff member.
Once we have reviewed your application, we send an enrollment package with the records, disclosures, and consents needed before a first day of school.
Everything below needs to be complete before a child starts.
Director
Before Hopper Creek, Tamara travelled widely as a private nanny, meeting families all over the world. Those years shaped how she thinks about what a young child needs from the room around them.
Outside school she is usually outdoors, hunting, camping, or practicing with her bow, often with her daughter. At home she quilts, cooks, bakes sourdough, and keeps a garden going.
"There is such joy in watching a child's eyes light up when they manage something they didn't think they could do. It is more than ABCs and 123s. It is kindness, independence, and the value of community."
Head Teacher
Cleo spends her time off outdoors: camping, running, golfing, or walking with family. She reads in the park and collects favorite places in Big Sur, Truckee, Hawaii, and Puerto Vallarta.
Around Napa you will find her at Zocalo, Beast and Bounty, or Mas Tacos, usually with an iced vanilla latte in hand.
"Every child is different, and I like adapting how I teach to meet each one. Building trust with children and their families is the heart of the job."
Hopper Creek Montessori was founded in 1984 in Yountville, with the aim of bringing modern, high-quality early childhood education to the valley. Ten years later the school moved to its present home a few blocks from downtown Napa.
Under founder Carol Woodiwiss it grew into one of Napa Valley's most respected preschools. In 2022 Carol passed the school to Brenna Roth, who leads it today with the same core values and a fresh direction.
For nearly four decades children have learned and played here, in a place where curiosity is encouraged, difference is welcome, and each child is met where they are.
Days the school is closed during the 2025–2026 school year. Please confirm current dates with the office.
The best way to know whether we are right for your child is to stand in the classroom. Tours take about half an hour.
Address2141 2nd St, Napa, CA 94558
Phone707-231-8768
Emailhoppercreekmontessori1@gmail.com
HoursMonday to Friday, 7:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tell us your child's age and the days you are hoping for, and we will find a time. In person or virtual, whichever suits you.
Email us about a tour