Camino de Paz Montessori Secondary School is a private Montessori middle school for grades 7 through 12. Grades 7, 8 and 9 attend classes on our organic farm campus; grades 10, 11 and 12 are located at our Santa Fe campus at the Farmers Market building in the Railyard.
Based on Maria Montessorii's philosophy, we are dedicated to meeting the specific developmental needs of both the younger and older adolescent. As students mature in the cognitive, emotional and social development, our approach to their education changes accordingly.
During these critical years of rapid physical, emotional and social changes, these young adults need an environment in which they can engage their intellect, spirit, hands and bodies.
Camino de Paz Schools curriculum is fully integrated with the activities of the Camino de Paz Farm, the context in which students improve academic achievement through hands-on, experiential learning; discover their passions, strengths and challenges; engage the greater community; interact positively with peers and adults; think creatively and analytically; and become ethical, caring citizens.
Camino de Paz is fully accredited through the National Private School Association Group.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked NM School
- School Type: Montessori School
- Grades: 7-12
- Enrollment: 15 students
- Yearly Tuition: $8,800
- Acceptance rate: 80%
- Average class size: 6 students
- Application Deadline: Mar. 1
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Camino De Paz School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New Mexico for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 7-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
2003
Student Body
Total Students
15 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
43%
State avg.: 50%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
4 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
4:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
95%
Average Class Size
6 students
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Mar. 1
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
High School tuition is $11,000 with generous work/study program available for all students.
% on Financial Aid
60%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$3,000
Acceptance Rate
80%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Patricia Pantano
School Notes
- If we want our youth to do extraordinary things and be extraordinary people, we must give them extraordinary experiences. See what makes us extraordinary.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Camino De Paz School cost?
Camino De Paz School's tuition is approximately $8,800 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Camino De Paz School?
The acceptance rate of Camino De Paz School is 80%, which is lower than the national average of 87%. Camino De Paz School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in New Mexico with low acceptance rates.
What is Camino De Paz School's ranking?
Camino De Paz School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New Mexico for: Lowest average acceptance rates and Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for Camino De Paz School?
The application deadline for Camino De Paz School is Mar. 1.
School Reviews
5 11/24/2017
My son started his 7th year of education at Camino de Paz. He comes home beaming everyday because the curriculum is based on far more than Math and English Language Arts. He is learning to be a caring, responsible individual while learning Math and the English Language Arts, music, horticulture, commerce... The small school environment, as well as his wonderful teachers makes my son happy to get up every morning and take the bus from Santa Fe to school. This school is not for everyone, but it is certainly the best place for my 13 yr old.
5 5/17/2016
I have been a public educator since 1996 in Arizona. I''ve worked in 5th-12th grade schools and have taught every subject. In 2009 I decided I had to find a better way to live and to educate students so I gave myself a personal sabbatical. One of my stops was to volunteer at Camino de Paz. During my short visit, I worked with a small group of students doing morning and afternoon chores. Being a teacher, I look at everything as a learning opportunity. I believe life has a lot more to offer than what is found inside a box with books (classroom) The life experiences and curriculum that is being offered at Camino de Paz is one that takes into consideration the whole child. It is one of the only schools that I have ever been to that I would consider offering not only a strong curricular focus, but also one that provides an environment for children to learn about themselves and to grow physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Students grow food, learn how to take care of animals, run a business, be responsible...and all is hands on, resulting in a school that actually creates life-long learners, and not just a school that has a written motto that can't possible be followed. I would highly recommend you take your child out of their current school and head over to Camino de Paz!
5 7/24/2015
My son went to the school for 2 years and blossomed. This is a great school that offers real life experiences. The animals are great teachers as well. Great environment to learn team work and responsibilities and leadership. This curriculum prepares children for being wholesome beings and not simply future consumers of a society who predominantly see growth/more as an ideal. Understanding the whole picture is necessary in order to make sound decisions for the future of our communities. I wish more schools would have the students take turn in preparing lunches for schoolmates and learn how to cook (self reliance), using for the majority products they themselves have grown.
5 7/24/2015
Being a graduate from CDP, I really love it. They taught me a lot of life skills that could be useful in the future. The school not only helped me to become more open, but it also helped me to become a leader. And the Animals helped me learn to be a lot more responsible.
5 7/24/2015
In a world increasingly city-center where youth do not learn the responsibility of "chores" and the source and value of healthy food, Camino de Paz integrates school with real life in an amazing way. These students are learning life skills, not just test answers.
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