The Montessori School of Pullman is relocating from the Gladish Community and Cultural Center to the Pioneer Center, following a lease agreement approved by the Pullman School Board of Directors. The decision was made during a regular meeting on March 15, 2024, allowing the private institution to occupy approximately 4,500 square feet within the new facility located at 240 SE Dexter St. in Pullman.
The Montessori School will have access to two classrooms, two offices, restrooms, and a gymnasium in the Pioneer Center. While the school operates independently and is not officially sanctioned or sponsored by the Pullman School District, Crystal Helenske, the school’s Director of Operations, indicated that this new space will enhance connections that benefit families in the Pullman community.
Long History and Recent Challenges
For over 50 years, the Montessori School of Pullman has been a vital part of the local educational landscape, primarily based at the Gladish. Helenske described the move as bittersweet, acknowledging the long-standing relationship with the Gladish but also recognizing pressing issues such as heating failures and building stability that necessitated the change. This winter, the school’s operations were severely impacted when the Gladish’s boiler broke down, resulting in canceled classes during a particularly cold February.
During the closure, the Pullman School District provided additional space to the Montessori, which Helenske expressed gratitude for. The school had been using space heaters to maintain warmth, as the Gladish’s heating system remained unaddressed. Transitioning to the Pioneer Center is expected to provide a more reliable environment for both students and staff.
Looking Ahead: New Opportunities
Helenske is hopeful that the move will also enhance the visibility of the Montessori School of Pullman, helping families differentiate it from the Pullman Community Montessori, which closed in May 2024 after the Washington State Charter School Commission revoked its charter. While the two schools share similar names, the Montessori School of Pullman has no affiliation with the now-defunct community school.
Classes commenced at the new location on March 15, 2024, albeit on a shortened schedule as licensing and inspections are finalized. Currently, the school operates from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on weekdays, a temporary adjustment from its usual hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.. Despite the school year already starting, the Montessori School of Pullman remains open for enrollment.
For more information about the Montessori School of Pullman, interested individuals can visit pullmanmontessori.org. The relocation marks a significant step forward for the school, promising new opportunities for its students and the community at large.
