About us
Founded on the Belief That Adolescence Is a Transformation to Be Honored
Montessori Light is a Montessori-based learning community for adolescents in Stuart, FL — created by two educators who believe middle school should be a time of expansion, not contraction.
Built for this moment
There is a moment in every child's life — often between the ages of 10 and 14 — when something begins to shift. Curiosity deepens. Identity awakens. And too often, traditional education narrows just as the child is ready to expand.
Tracey Etelson and Patti Mitchell created Montessori Light for that moment. Drawing on years of experience in Montessori education and adolescent development, they built a school where students are not managed — but guided. Not pressured — but challenged. Not defined — but discovered.
What we believe
Identity over performance
We measure success by who students are becoming, not just what they can produce.
Community over competition
Students learn alongside each other, not against each other. Collaboration is a skill we practice every day.
Depth over breadth
We go deep on fewer things rather than skimming the surface of many. Real understanding takes time.
Meet our guides
Montessori Light is led by two educators who believe middle school should be a time of expansion, not contraction.
Tracey Etelson
Co-Founder
Tracey brings years of Montessori training and a deep commitment to adolescent development. She believes every student has a unique voice worth cultivating.
Patti Mitchell
Co-Founder & Lead Guide
Patti's background in education and holistic development shapes the school's integrated approach to learning — where academic rigor and personal growth go hand in hand.
Nicole Watson
Montessori Math Educator
Nicole brings a deep love of mathematics and a Montessori-trained approach to numeracy. She guides students through abstract concepts with hands-on materials and real-world application.
Come see us in person
The best way to understand Montessori Light is to visit. We'd love to show you around and answer your questions.