Forest Montessori Micro School Proposal Faces Setback Amid Concerns Over Readiness and Logistics
A proposal to establish the Mulberry Forest Montessori Micro School in Reading met resistance from the School Committee Thursday night, as members voted 3–3 on a motion to approve the school, ultimately denying the request for now. Previously, the Select Board had a discussion on the financial aspect but no vote was required.
The proposed micro school, which blends Montessori pedagogy with nature-based education, aims to serve children ages 3–12 in a small, mixed-age setting at the Bare Meadow and Mattera Cabin Conservation Area. Led by founder Dr. Mary Jirmanus Saba and a team of educators and scientists, the school would operate primarily outdoors, with access to the Mattera Cabin for shelter during inclement weather.
During a nearly two-hour presentation and discussion, the Forest School team emphasized their commitment to experiential learning, environmental stewardship, and individualized instruction. They highlighted their collaboration with the Reading Conservation Commission and their intent to remain small, with an initial enrollment of 10–15 students.
However, committee members raised several concerns:
- Facility Readiness: The Mattera Cabin is not currently approved for use as a school facility. The town’s building inspector has closed the cabin pending further review, and the school’s ability to operate hinges on receiving a certificate of occupancy or similar approval.
- Staff Credentials: Questions were raised about the Montessori certifications of lead teachers. While one educator is certified, others are still in training or hold assistant-level credentials. Committee members expressed a desire for clearer documentation and progress toward full certification.
- Operational Uncertainty: With the school year approaching, members worried about the feasibility of launching the program in time, especially given the unresolved facility issues and limited enrollment in some age groups.
- Potential Costs to the District: Committee members flagged concerns about possible transportation obligations under Massachusetts law, which could require the district to bus Reading students attending the private school if they live more than two miles away.
Despite the vote, several members expressed support for the school’s mission and encouraged the team to return with updates.
I think the concept of this school is fabulous,” said committee member Carla Nazzaro. “I just feel like it’s too quick. You don’t have a place yet. How can we give you approval?”
Chair Shawn Brandt proposed a motion to approve the school contingent on three conditions: town approval of the facility, agreement on transportation cost-sharing, and demonstrated progress on teacher certification. That proposed motion passed in a 4–2 vote, with Carla and Sarah dissenting. Then the overall motion came for a vote and failed 3-3, with Carla, Sarah and Tom dissenting. Committee members cited unresolved questions and the need for more time.
Dr. Saba and her team expressed disappointment but remained optimistic:
We are ready,” she said. “We’ve been working on this project for several years and feel confident in our educators and curriculum.”
The School Committee invited the Forest School team to return with updates and clarified that approval could be reconsidered at a future meeting.
An open house is still scheduled for tomorrow, August 24th at Mattera Cabin from 3pm-4:30pm. The event is still on even though the building has been shut down due to no occupancy permit. You can RSVP here for the open house which includes a short presentation about Mulberry Forest Montessori’s grounding principles.
