Authentic Montessori Preschool in Bettendorf, Iowa
Child-centered Montessori education that builds independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Schedule a Montessori Visit
Rivermont Collegiate offers one of the only authentic Montessori preschool programs in the Quad Cities. Our child‑centered Montessori classroom serves children ages 4–6 in a nurturing, hands‑on environment where they develop independence, confidence, concentration, and a lifelong love of learning.
Rooted in respect for each child’s natural development, our Montessori program encourages purposeful play, meaningful choice, and joyful discovery, guided by expert instruction in a true Children’s House setting.
Led by an Expert Montessori Educator
Christine Shepherd is a master Montessori educator with more than 13 years of classroom experience. Her Montessori journey began as a parent, where observing children thrive as self-directed, curious learners inspired her lifelong dedication to the philosophy.
Certified through the American Institute of Montessori (AIM) and a former faculty advisor, Mrs. Shepherd believes education should nurture the whole child, fostering independence, confidence, critical thinking, and a love of learning through a carefully prepared environment. Her calm, intentional approach helps children develop confidence, responsibility, and a genuine joy for learning, skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
One of her favorite lessons involves the visually striking Golden Bead materials, which enable children to physically build and explore numbers, bringing math concepts to life.
Fun fact: Christine loves incorporating family interests into the classroom—her current passion for sourdough began thanks to a Rivermont parent.
“In my 40 years of teaching, I have never met a teacher as effective as Christine.”
— Dale Blesz, Montessori Parent & Education Professional
Why Montessori at Rivermont?
Authentic Montessori education is intentional, individualized, and deeply respectful of each child. At Rivermont, children are empowered to explore their interests, work at their own pace, and build essential academic and life skills through hands‑on learning.
Families seeking a true Montessori preschool for 4‑ to 6‑year‑olds will find Montessori as it was meant to be: thoughtful, engaging, and transformative.
Montessori Preschool at a Glance
- Authentic Montessori classroom guided by a highly trained Montessori educator
- Mixed‑age learning community for children ages 4–6
- Hands‑on Montessori materials that foster independence and deep concentration
- Individualized lessons tailored to each child’s pace and interests
- Warm, supportive environment that nurtures curiosity, confidence, and joy in learning
A Purpose‑Built Montessori Environment
Our carefully prepared Montessori classroom is designed to give children freedom within limits, a cornerstone of genuine Montessori education. Children move independently between activities, selecting work that matches their readiness and interests.
Every element in the environment is intentionally chosen to:
- Spark joyful, hands‑on discovery
- Develop fine‑motor skills and practical life abilities
- Build strong foundations in early math and literacy
- Foster emotional awareness and social confidence
- Encourage creativity, self‑discipline, and intrinsic motivation
In this thoughtfully designed space, children take pride in their work, master new skills, and grow in confidence every day.
The Power of Mixed‑Age Learning
A defining feature of Montessori education is mixed‑age learning, which creates a natural and supportive classroom community.
In our Montessori preschool:
- Younger children learn through observation and imitation
- Older children deepen their understanding by mentoring and leading
- All students develop empathy, leadership, patience, and confidence
This collaborative environment builds a strong sense of belonging and reflects the heart of a high‑quality Montessori school.