CareCompass
At a Glance
Trust Score
Based on comprehensive analysis of reviews, safety records, and operations.
About Itzcali Montessori Sip School
Itzcali Montessori and Spanish Immersion
Itzcali Montessori and Spanish Immersion School provides a dedicated learning environment for infants through pre-kindergarteners in East Austin. Founded by sisters Anna Ruiz and Dolores Martinez, who bring over 30 years of combined Montessori experience, the school is built on the philosophy that children are self-motivated constructors of their own development. The curriculum features five 'Prepared Environments' focused on practical life, sensorial materials, science, geography, and bilingual literacy. Students are immersed in the Spanish language and culture from the moment they arrive, developing phonetic skills in both English and Spanish simultaneously. The facility includes a spacious, shaded backyard for outdoor exploration and gardening. With a focus on independence and social responsibility, the staff works to model respect and curiosity, creating a nurturing community that feels like a second home for local families near the Mueller area-neighborhoods.
What Parents Say
5 reviews from parents
Could not be happier with our child’s experience at Itzcali. The teachers and staff are exceptionally caring, kind, communicative, and supportive. If I weren’t so grateful, I’d be tempted to gatekeep this place—but they truly deserve the praise. Thank you to the entire Itzcali team for everything you do!
I'm from Peru and my husband is from Venezuela. We want our kids to have a connection with their heritage and that includes food, language and traditions. They are 4 and 2 and have been attending Itzcali for the last year. All the teachers are super sweet and caring and my kids love going to "school" to learn and play with their friends. The classrooms are beautiful and organized. We couldn't be happier!
Itzcali is truly a family and second home for us. Both of my girls started school here when they were just about 1 years old. The ladies who work here have been instrumental in building their confidence, sense of self, respect for others and the world around them, and finally their love of learning. As an early childhood expert, I believe this is one of the best schools in the city 😊. We have recommended this school for many others and, especially if Montessori is important to you, we suggest it for you, too!
Our son has been at Itzcali since he was a year old. He absolutely loves it and the teachers. They do such a good job teaching the children how to speak Spanish, be independent, and learn far beyond anything I would expect at his age. If you’re looking for childcare, this place is amazing! We are so lucky to have found this place. Leaving your child in someone else’s care is hard, but I know here he’s loved and in good hands.
We started our daughter at Itzcali at 10 months old and she is now almost 18 months - we love it! We were very nervous at first but Daniela made us feel welcomed and assured that our daughter would be okay. There was an adjustment period at first (to be expected) but now our daughter runs to her teachers as soon as she sees them! & at pickup, we always notice the teachers sneaking in extra hugs as they are saying goodbye. Itzcali might not have all the "frills" of a larger more corporate daycare, but we feel strongly that our daughter is not only safe and cared for but thriving in this environment! They fill the days with so many activities (outside picnics, water days, birthday celebrations, art activities etc) - I know our daughter is learning so much. We would highly recommend to anyone considering!
Web Report
Aggregated insights from public records & parent discussions
Safety Record
No safety concerns found. The facility is a licensed child care center (License #1721921) with an initial license issue date of August 4, 2021. No news articles regarding incidents, closures, or legal issues were found, and available records indicate no reported licensing violations.
Parent Reputation
Overall reputation is very positive according to parent testimonials, which highlight themes of academic growth, Spanish language immersion, and a nurturing environment. Families praise the teachers for fostering curiosity and note that children appear eager to attend, with one parent describing their child rushing into the school at drop-off.
Quick Information
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