Mesa Verde National Park, CO

The Children's Kiva Montessori School is a highly-regarded educational institution serving the Mesa Verde region with authentic Montessori education. Located just 10 miles from Mesa Verde National Park in Cortez, this school serves as the primary childcare and educational option for park staff and local families. The school features mixed-age classrooms, hands-on Montessori materials, and individualized learning plans. Teachers hold Montessori certifications and state teaching credentials, with low student-teacher ratios. The curriculum emphasizes practical life skills, sensorial development, and cultural studies while incorporating the rich local heritage of the Four Corners region. Facilities include outdoor learning environments, gardens, and dedicated art and music spaces.

Turtle Rock Childcare provides comprehensive early childhood education services to families throughout Montezuma County, including Mesa Verde National Park staff. This center offers a play-based curriculum with structured learning activities designed to meet Colorado Early Learning and Development Guidelines. The facility features secure entry systems, age-appropriate playgrounds, and dedicated infant and toddler rooms. Staff members hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The program emphasizes social-emotional development, literacy foundations, and STEM exploration. Nutritional meals and snacks are provided, and the center maintains flexible scheduling to accommodate the varied hours of park employees and local families.

Located in Mancos (approximately 15 minutes from Mesa Verde National Park), Little Bears Preschool serves as a key early childhood education provider for the Mesa Verde community. This nature-inspired preschool incorporates outdoor education and environmental awareness into its developmentally appropriate curriculum. The program focuses on hands-on learning, creative expression, and building foundational academic skills through play-based activities. The facility features large outdoor play areas with natural elements, art studios, and literacy-rich classrooms. Teachers are trained in early childhood education and maintain small class sizes. The preschool partners with Mesa Verde National Park for occasional educational field trips and nature-based learning experiences.