The Way of the Shepherd is a Catholic Montessori School in the Archdiocese of Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota.
Located in northern suburb of Blaine, we are an independent school, not affiliated to any parish.
We serve students age 3 through grade 8. The Way of the Shepherd combines the teachings of the Catholic Church with the individualized learning methods of Dr. Maria Montessori.
The Way of the Shepherd Catholic Montessori School provides a challenging learning environment centered on God, where ministry to the Child and the Family is foremost.
Recognizing parents as the primary educators of their children, we are dedicated to providing a Catholic Montessori education personalized to the Child, as each one embraces their mental, physical, and spiritual potential.
Our primary work is to help children grow into strong men and women who are spiritually and morally mature, thus enabling them to become contributing members of society for God's greater glory.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked MN School
- School Type: Montessori School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 77 students
- Average class size: 20 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
The Way Of The Shepherd Catholic Montessori ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Minnesota for:
Category
Attribute
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Year Founded
1998
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
77 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
10%
State avg.: 22%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
7 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
11:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
75%
Average Class Size
20 students
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Black or Khaki pants
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
PreK $3346-1/2day Elementary $4181
PreK-$3780 Full day
Kindergarten- $4181
% on Financial Aid
30%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$700
Admissions Director
Linda Olson
Admissions Associate
Linda Olson
Sports
Total Sports Offered
6 sports
Sports
School Notes
- The Way of the Shepherd is a Catholic Montessori School in the Archdiocese of Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota. Located in northern suburb of Blaine, we are an independent school, not affiliated to any parish. We serve students age 3 through grade 6. The Way of the Shepherd combines the teachings of the Catholic Church with the individualized learning methods of Dr. Maria Montessori. The Way of the Shepherd Catholic Montessori School provides a challenging learning environment centered on God, where ministry to the Child and the Family is foremost. Recognizing parents as the primary educators of their children, we are dedicated to providing a Catholic Montessori education personalized to the Child, as each one embraces their mental, physical, and spiritual potential. Our primary work is to help children grow into strong men and women who are spiritually and morally mature, thus enabling them to become contributing members of society for God's greater glory.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What sports does The Way Of The Shepherd Catholic Montessori offer?
The Way Of The Shepherd Catholic Montessori offers 6 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball and Wrestling.
What is The Way Of The Shepherd Catholic Montessori's ranking?
The Way Of The Shepherd Catholic Montessori ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Minnesota for: Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for The Way Of The Shepherd Catholic Montessori?
The application deadline for The Way Of The Shepherd Catholic Montessori is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 9/8/2012
This school is a hidden gem in the northern suburbs. It has everything that children need to thrive - inspiring teachers, excellent academics, strong faith formation, and a student culture of friendship, respect, and inclusion. It also has everything that parents need to thrive - friendly and collaborative staff, parent education nights, tuition assistance, uniform swaps, and such a welcoming and loving parent community that it feels like an extended family.
Our whole family thrives here and I''m sure yours will too. I highly recommend scheduling a tour and/or observation if you are looking for a school for 3yo-6th grade so you can see for yourself what a great place this is.
Endorse The Way Of The Shepherd Catholic Montessori. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

A Parent's Guide To Understanding High School Teaching Methods
This comprehensive guide helps parents navigate the various teaching methods used in today's high school classrooms. By understanding these approaches, you'll be better equipped to support your teen's learning journey, communicate effectively with teachers, and create a complementary learning environment at home.

February 08, 2025
Social Emotional Learning: Education's Hidden SymphonyA musician's perspective on Social Emotional Learning reveals how this educational framework orchestrates success through five essential emotional competencies.

January 24, 2025
A Roadmap For Starting A Private SchoolUse this roadmap as a set of talking points with your trusted mentors and professionals to start the private school of your dreams. You're not alone. Over the years, hundreds of folks like you have had the same dream. From Quintilian to Maria Montessori to Lucy Madeira Wing, visionary educators have established schools to teach according to their beliefs and methodologies.