East Cooper Montessori Charter School

East Cooper Montessori Charter School (ECMCS), is a unique Elementary School in South Carolina that combines the Montessori approach and rigorous academics. We serve students from Pre-K through 8th grade, providing a multi-age learning environment, hands-on learning experiences, and cultivates curiosity, independence, and stewardship in our students. We maintain a student-teacher ratio of about 13:1 allowing children to receive individualized attention. ECMCS outperforms the state average consistently, with 80% or more students reading at grade level, and is often the top school on rank lists in math and science, as well. Our teachers are certified, and have had additional Montessori training, balancing both a rigorous academic approach with each child's social-emotional growth. Our campus includes outdoor classrooms, gardens, and creative spaces for learning curiosity to reign. Families are drawn to ECMCS to experience a welcoming atmosphere, unconventional teaching approaches, and academic excellence by South Carolina Elementary School standards.

East Cooper Montessori Charter School was awarded the News 2 Cool School Award in May 2025 for its innovative teaching strategies and ways it engages with its local community as one of the first public Montessori charter schools in South Carolina.

Q1: In what ways does East Cooper Montessori Charter School educate its students?

Ans. East Cooper Montessori Charter School follows the Montessori method of education, which emphasizes self-directed learning and hands-on activities and experiential learning for children dedicate learning to their own interests.

Q2: Is there a way to get assistance with some expenses at East Cooper Montessori?

Ans. The school is a public charter school, which means that enrollment is free. There may be programs to help if you need additional support in the area.

Q3: What do students do after school at East Cooper Montessori?

Ans. East Cooper Montessori Charter School has clubs such as robotics, arts, and sports. Clubs are generally led by teachers at the school or are outside providers.

Q4: What will the classroom look like at East Cooper Montessori?

Ans. The classrooms are designed for children to explore. The classrooms have open spaces for learning, libraries, outdoor play areas, and children have access to materials easily.

Q5: Are the teachers knowledgeable and skilled at East Cooper Montessori?

Ans. Yes, the teachers have Montessori training and are state certified. The is necessary to ensure the teachers are qualified and engaged in a best practice form of education.