Cypress Junction Montessori

July 2025

In 2016, a determined group of parents in Winter Haven, Florida, transformed a gap in educational opportunity into a beacon of hope and possibility. Cypress Junction Montessori (CJM) was born from their shared vision: a public Montessori school where children could continue their Montessori journey beyond preschool. What began as a small school serving students through grade six has now flourished into a vibrant community offering an authentic Montessori education through 8th grade.

At the heart of CJM is a deep belief in the power of community. Teachers, families, and students work together in an environment grounded in respect, curiosity, and belonging. Children learn not only academics, but also how to collaborate, problem-solve, and grow into compassionate global citizens. With over 30% of students receiving special education services and a diverse population served through a lottery-based charter, CJM stands as a model of inclusion and accessibility.

Now, as the school prepares to expand—adding new classrooms, welcoming new staff, and serving 100 additional students—CJM remains anchored in its mission to provide a holistic, child-centered education. To meet the needs of its growing community, the school seeks support to furnish and equip its new Lower Elementary classrooms with authentic Montessori materials. A  grant from MGGF will make it possible to purchase these tools that are essential for both seasoned educators and new teachers in training, ensuring CJM continues to deliver a transformative experience to every child who walks through its doors.

Cypress Junction Montessori is not just growing in size—it is growing in impact, offering families in Winter Haven a meaningful alternative and a future filled with promise. MGGF is proud to support this program through grant funding for Montessori materials.