About Us

About our School

Ballard Montessori School provides a challenging, innovative educational program designed to foster self-esteem, independence, creativity and a love of learning in an exceptionally clean, safe and warm environment. Our curriculum is enhanced by the teachings of Dr. Maria Montessori, a world-renowned physician and educator. We have the full gamut of hands-on materials essential to a young child's ability to master concepts. Our program differs from a traditional Montessori program being that we place more emphasis on academic work, especially in the pre-Kindergarten classrooms.Our classrooms feature an ordered arrangement of learning materials in a warm, non-competitive environment. The freedom to choose hands-on activities helps to create self-directed independence. As a child repeats an exercise and becomes involved in a task, concentration develops and the child gains confidence and a love of learning. The individualized approach of our program allows each child to progress to his or her maximum potential at his or her own developmental rate.

Responsibility, respect, organizational skills, problem-solving skills, and the ability to view experiences from different perspectives are also emphasized.

Meet our Director

Peggy Galdamez

Director

Hello! I have lived in a variety of interesting states, but most recently from Michigan where the winters are extremely harsh and cold, which makes living here year round an absolute luxury and very easy in which to acclimate. Some of my many favorite things to do involve traveling, relaxing, eating gourmet food, camping, snowboarding, dancing, and spending time with my husband, family and good friends.

I received my BA from Western Michigan University in 2000 and have gained experience in several fields within the realm of education since graduating. I became interested in working at Ballard when the opportunity presented itself in March of 2005 and have not looked back since! In order to not only work but 'direct' here, I studied and completed courses in Early Childhood Education and Montessori Education.

One of my favorite Montessori quotes from Dr. Montessori is "The hand is the pathway to the mind". I enjoy seeing these children learn and grow under the wonderful guidance of our teachers each and every day. These children at this preschool age are truly the 'spice of life' through the sharing of their stories, imagination and laughter. This particular atmosphere is one in which I am privileged to learn from, help create as a participant and observer, and enjoy experiencing with all of the people with whom I interact. I look forward to daily adventures with the children, facing new challenges, and to live by good advice by taking things one day at a time. 

2555 Moorpark Avenue  San Jose, California 95128  Phone: (408) 977-1772  Fax: (408) 977-1766