Our Programs
A Montessori Education That Grows With Your Child
Choosing a school is a big decision, and we want you to feel confident that DGS is the right place for your child. Our programs serve children ages 3 through 6th grade, and each one uses Montessori principles to give children the independence to follow their interests along with the structure and support they need to grow.
Find the Right Program for Your Child
Primary Class
Ages 3 - 6 | Pre-K Through Kindergarten
Our youngest learners spend their days in a prepared Montessori classroom and outside in the woods and gardens around our campus. Children choose meaningful work and move at their own pace, which builds the independence and confidence to say, "I can do it myself." We offer a half-day Pre-K program for 3 and 4 year-olds and a full-day kindergarten, with Forest Explorers available as an afternoon add-on.
Lower Elementary
Ages 6 - 9 | 1st Through 3rd Grade
Once children start asking why and how things work, our Lower Elementary program gives them a strong academic foundation and plenty of hands-on work to go find the answers. Students learn together in a multi-age classroom where younger children are inspired by older classmates and older children grow into mentors. Learning regularly moves beyond the classroom through field trips, service projects, and overnight trips to the mountains.
Upper Elementary
Ages 9 - 12 | 4th Through 6th Grade
Upper Elementary students take on more complex academic work and more responsibility for managing it themselves. They put what they know to use through real projects like selling products at the Davidson Farmers Market and leading student committees, and sixth graders step into leadership roles as the oldest elementary students on campus.
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The Admissions
Process
How to Apply
01
Attend an Info Session
Schedule a visit to tour our classrooms and see our Montessori curriculum in person.​
03
The Student Visit Day
We want to make sure DGS is the perfect fit. Your child will spend a day or more on campus participating in activities alongside their future peers.
04
Send Records & Recommendations
Applicants will provide past school records and have their current teachers complete our recommendation form.
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05
Receive Your Enrollment Decision
Once your file is complete and your child's visit is done, our team will review your application and reach out with a decision so you can start planning for the school year ahead. Decisions are communicated beginning mid-February.
Admission Timeline
For the 2027-2028 School Year
Fall 2026 & Winter 2027
New family tours, student visits, and applications open
January 31, 2027
Returning student agreements and deposits due
February 1, 2027
Priority application deadline
By March 1, 2027
New applicants notified of admission decisions*
*New student tuition agreement and deposit due 72 hours after notice of acceptance.
Tuition & Fees
For the 2027-2028 School Year
Tuition Discounts
SIBLING
$300 – $500
$300 for the first sibling, $500 for the second and every sibling after. Prorated after the first day of school.
EARLY PAYMENT
$400
Full tuition must be paid before the first day of school.
GREEN INITIATIVE
$100
For families who commit to a non-vehicular commute or to carpooling with at least one other family. Please request in writing at the time of enrollment.
Field Trips & Travel
By Program
Primary Half-Day & Kindergarten
Periodic day trips throughout the year extend learning beyond our campus, giving children opportunities to explore their community, experience new places, and build curiosity and connection through real-world experiences.
Lower Elementary
Regular experiential learning beyond campus, with monthly curriculum-connected field trips and overnight adventure travel, including a one-night fall trip to Rockmont and a two-night spring trip to Lake Logan.
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*Overnight experiences and destinations may vary.
Upper Elementary
Regular experiential learning beyond campus, with monthly curriculum-connected field trips and overnight adventure travel, including a one-night fall trip to the beach and a two-night spring trip to Green River Preserve.
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*Overnight experiences and destinations may vary.
Got a Question?
We know you love what you've read. What else are you wondering? Look here for frequently asked questions and contact us for all else!