Montessori-Inspired Preschool & Childcare in Custer, South Dakota
Now Enrolling for 2026 - 2027 School Year
August 31, 2026 - May 28, 2027
A nurturing, whole-child preschool in the heart of the Black Hills.
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About Our School-Year Program
About Our School-Year Program
Whole-Child Preschool in the Black Hills
Whole-Child Preschool in the Black Hills
Growing Roots provides Montessori-inspired preschool and full-day childcare in Custer, South Dakota during the school year for children ages 2.5 - 6 (potty trained). Our program supports child-led learning in a caring, warm environment where children can grow and thrive.
Children learn in a mixed-age classroom that encourages:
Independence and confidence
Social and emotional growth
Problem-solving and collaboration
Hands-on learning and exploration
Our bright indoor classroom—filled with classic Montessori materials, STEM tools, and natural elements—flows into our outdoor learning spaces to create a rich and engaging place to learn.
Submit an enrollment interest form.
Schedule & Enrollment Options
Schedule & Enrollment Options
Program Hours
Program Hours
Monday – Friday Only
We do not offer weekend care.
Full Day
7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Drop-off: 7:30 – 8:00 AM
Pick-up: 4:00 – 5:00 PM
Half Day Morning Preschool
7:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Drop-off: 7:30 – 8:00 AM
Pick-up: 12:00 PM
Enrollment Options
Enrollment Options
Choose from:
5 days per week
3 days per week
2 days per week
Specific days are determined individually with each family based on:
Parent work schedules
Program availability
What best supports the child’s experience
2026–2027 Tuition
2026–2027 Tuition
5 Days per Week
Full Day: $210 per week
Morning Preschool: $132 per week
3 Days per Week
Full Day: $158 per week
Morning Preschool: $79 per week
2 Days per Week
Full Day: $105 per week
Morning Preschool: $53 per week
Please note:
Selected schedules remain consistent for the full school year
Scheduled days cannot change week to week
Enrollment for specific days may close early due to capacity limits
Scholarships Available
Scholarships Available
Preschool & Childcare Scholarships
Preschool & Childcare Scholarships
We believe cost should not stand in the way of a strong early childhood education.
Scholarships are available for the 2026–2027 school year.
Our process is simple and handled privately and respectfully.
Daily Rhythm
Daily Rhythm
Our Montessori-inspired preschool program in Custer, South Dakota is thoughtfully designed to support children’s development throughout the day. Each part of the day builds independence, focus, and social growth.
Mornings
Mornings begin with a Montessori work cycle, where children choose hands-on materials and engage in meaningful work at their own pace. During this uninterrupted time, children build concentration, problem-solving skills, and confidence.
Snack, lunch, and classroom responsibilities provide opportunities to practice practical life skills, such as preparing food, cleaning up, and caring for their environment. These daily routines help children grow in independence and responsibility.
Outdoor play offers time for movement, fresh air, and connection with peers.
Afternoons
Afternoons include rest time to recharge, followed by continued hands-on learning and outdoor exploration. Children practice independence, collaboration, and real-world skills through purposeful activities inside and outside the classroom.
Our daily rhythm balances structured learning with freedom to explore, helping children grow socially, emotionally, and academically in a calm and supportive environment.
How to Enroll in the Preschool Program
How to Enroll in the Preschool Program
Enrollment is simple:
Complete the School Year Enrollment Interest Form
On the form, indicate if you are interested in financial assistance through the scholarship program
We will contact you to confirm availability and review schedule options
Complete enrollment paperwork
Provide immunization records and the $20 non-refundable enrollment fee
Submit first month's tuition
Your child's spot is confirmed
Please note: Submitting an interest form does not guarantee placement. Enrollment is complete once all forms, immunizations, and the enrollment fee are received. Scholarship requests are always handled discretely and respectfully.
Is a Montessori-Inspired Preschool the Right Fit for Your Child?
Is a Montessori-Inspired Preschool the Right Fit for Your Child?
Our preschool and childcare program in Custer, South Dakota is designed for children ages 2.5–6 (potty trained) and for families who value a whole-child approach to early learning.
We believe children grow best when their academic, social, emotional, and physical development are supported together—not separately. Learning is connected to confidence. Independence is connected to responsibility. Strong relationships build resilience.
This program is a strong fit for families who value:
Child-led, hands-on learning
Social and emotional development alongside academics
Independence, responsibility, and confidence
A safe and nurturing environment
Regular outdoor time in the Black Hills
Caring adults who guide and support each child’s growth
Our mixed-age classroom fosters belonging, leadership, and healthy relationships. Children are challenged, supported, and encouraged to actively engage in their learning and their community.
When children feel safe, seen, and capable, they thrive - not just in preschool, but in life.
2026 - 2027 School Calendar
2026 - 2027 School Calendar
Growing Roots preschool and childcare in Custer, South Dakota operates Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM during the school year, August through May.
We follow weather closures observed by the Custer School District. Morning preschool programs will be canceled on days with delayed starts.
First Day of School: August 31, 2026
Last Day of School: May 28, 2027
Scheduled Closures TBD
Labor Day:
Thanksgiving Break:
Christmas Break:
Winter Staff Inservice:
Spring Staff Inservice:
Spring Break:
Coming Soon: Download the 2025-2026 Growing Roots Official School Calendar (PDF)
Montessori-Inspired Preschool in Custer, South Dakota
Montessori-Inspired Preschool in Custer, South Dakota
Scholarships available. Limited enrollment for the 2026–2027 school year.
Submit your enrollment interest form to apply today.
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