Academics

At Coastal Glades Microschool, academic growth and joyful discovery go hand in hand. Our approach combines individualized instruction, hands-on materials, and daily outdoor exploration to meet each child where they are and help them grow to their fullest potential.

We align our curriculum with Florida’s academic standards while infusing it with Montessori principles and nature-based learning. Students receive a strong foundation in core subjects like math, reading, writing, science, and social studies—all taught through real-world experiences that spark curiosity and deepen understanding.

Each child follows a personalized learning path based on their needs, strengths, and interests. We use a combination of observation, assessment, and collaboration to ensure they are challenged and supported at just the right level.

Two children sitting at a table, focused on writing in notebooks with pencils, in a well-lit room.
Two children in a bright yellow kayak on clear blue water, wearing life jackets and holding paddles, with forested islands in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
Children using a wooden Montessori math set with number tiles and colored pencils on a table.
Four children lying on grass reading a book together.

A Typical Day at CGM

Our days at Coastal Glades Microschool begin with a community-building morning meeting, where students connect, set intentions, and prepare for a purposeful day. Afterward, children move into focused and rigorous work time dedicated to core academic subjects such as math, reading, writing, and social studies—engaging in individualized and small-group instruction aligned with their learning needs.

Midday often brings time outdoors, where students might explore local trails, observe wildlife, or study marine ecosystems. Afternoons are filled with hands-on science experiments, journaling, or collaborative projects that deepen understanding of the natural world and foster curiosity.

With small class sizes and multi-age groupings, students learn from one another, develop leadership skills, and build strong community bonds. Social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and creative expression are thoughtfully integrated into our weekly rhythm, supporting the growth of the whole child.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aerial view of Overseas Highway, Florida Keys, over turquoise ocean waters with blue sky and clouds.

  • We believe the two go hand in hand. Our curriculum is aligned with Florida academic standards, ensuring strong foundational skills in math, literacy, science, and more. Outdoor exploration isn’t a break from learning — it’s an extension of it. Whether students are studying tide patterns, journaling observations in the Everglades, or measuring shadows during a math lesson, real-world experiences deepen understanding and make learning stick.

  • Our small class sizes and Montessori-inspired approach allow us to personalize learning for each student. Through regular observation and one-on-one guidance, we tailor instruction to challenge each learner appropriately.

    Multi-age classrooms also encourage peer learning, leadership, and collaboration across skill levels — creating a supportive environment where every child is both encouraged and empowered to grow.

  • Because our learning is personalized, we’re able to meet students exactly where they are. Children who need extra support receive targeted help within the flow of the day, and those who are ready for more advanced work are encouraged to explore beyond grade-level expectations. Our flexible structure and small class sizes make this kind of differentiation possible—and effective.