PROS: +Montessori-trained owner very involved in the day to day operation.+Helpful administrative staff, common sense rules, 9 out of 10 very nice teachers that don't seem to be acting a role. +Nice balance between a very traditional school and an extreme hippie one. (Maybe a bit too leaned towards traditional but rules are clear) +Security at the door. +Drive thru drop off early in the morning +Parents night out once a month. +Spanish class, encouraging diversity :)
CONS: No garden; children not allowed to be barefoot or to share food. Play time could be better?

I wasn't sure if I would send my daughter to a Montessori school, but once I took a tour of IMA and spoke with the owner, I was hooked. My daughter just loves International Montessori Academy. Her day is quite balanced with class time, play and other activities like ballet, gymnastics, music, Spanish and computers. I like the Montessori approach because it provides a bit more structure than most preschools, which I think is important in preparing kids for K-12. My daughter's language ability improved considerably after starting at IMA, in part, because she shares a classroom with children who are both older and younger than she is (2-5 years old). The teachers at IMA are caring and attentive, they teach my daughter manners, how to interact with others, and help her learn at her own speed. For what more could one ask? A GREAT school!

DEBBIE C AND AMS SHOULD REALLY READ UP ON MONTESSORI AND BECOME EDUCATED ON THE SUBJECT BEFORE MAKING COMMENTS ABOUT THE SYSTEM. MONTESSORI IS A GREAT WAY OF LEARNING AND MY CHILD HAS EXCELLED BEYOND MY EXPECTATIONS AT THIS SCHOOL. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND INTERNATIONAL MONTESSORI ACADEMY WITHOUT RESERVATIONS.

I am in such disagreement with AMS and Debbie C. that I find myself propelled to write a review of IMA. My eldest daughter attended for two years and my middle daughter is on the cusp of completing her third year. My eldest was and my middle is MORE than prepared for kindergarten - all owed to IMA. I can say with my whole heart that it is the best preschool in Pasadena. Perhaps, AMS and Debbie C. do not understand the Montessori philosophy - which is different from a typical preschool. The staff is superb, the facility is wonderful and MOST important, the curriculum is stellar! I would recommend the school in a heartbeat. IMA provides a top-notch quality education. If you are looking for a preschool in Pasadena, it is a must see!

Started out great, very caring, supportive, and for 3 months, did not notify us of our child's problems until they unceremoniously dumped us because we did not fit their mold. Uncommunicative and very distant, would not recommend to parents who want feedback, since they don't give any as a rule