Petite Ecole Internationale

Austin French Immersion Montessori Preschool

Established in 2000, Petite Ecole Internationale provides a unique educational environment combining the Montessori method with full French language immersion. Led by Director Carrie Schonaerts-Ferrucci, who has been with the school since its founding, the program focuses on developing independence, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence in a warm, community-focused setting. The school functions as a non-profit governed by a board of parents, ensuring all resources are reinvested into the children's experience. The classroom environment is designed to nurture the 'whole child' through hands-on experiential learning, collaborative play, and specialized activities like gardening, yoga, and music. With a commitment to low student-teacher ratios, the school ensures each child receives personalized attention while acquiring a second language naturally. No prior French exposure is necessary, making this an accessible global education for Austin families seeking a strong foundation.