Colin MacDonald Alternative School

” Edit to update for 2026: Our kid completed the first year of Elementary One (grades 1-4) and we couldn’t be happier. She is now a confident reader and math is her favourite subject. She can’t wait to get to school each day! The foundation that the Casa class teachers gave her prepared her beautifully for the responsibilities of being a bigger kid in the E1 classroom. I have also loved watching her social skills evolve with the support of caring teachers around her. Observing my child in such a caring and creative community has been a highlight of our time in Hamilton so far. Original review from 2024: Our child has been attending the Casa program for two years. We have great things to say about the school, its teachers and the small community it has built. Our child has flourished here and grown into a confident and kind kid with a love of learning. It is a small school that doesn’t have the bells and whistles of a pricier private school. But what it lacks in flash it makes up for in heart. The teachers love what they do and are laser-focused on meeting each kid where they are at, a core value of Montessori teaching. We are continuing with the program into the Elementary 1 classroom. I’m just so excited to see what my kid is going to learn next year. “

” My kids started at CMCS in 2021 and have thrived there, first in Louise’s casa classroom where they were deeply cared for and given such a strong foundation for learning through the basics of literacy, numeracy, and so many other subjects. They’re now enjoying their elementary subjects with Charles and Kat and enjoy going to school every day. We have loved our experience with Colin Macdonald so far and are grateful every day that our children find joy in learning and school. “

” We have been part of the CMCS community for almost four years, and we could not be happier with our experience. We were looking for an alternative to the traditional educational path, and choosing CMCS has been one of the best decisions we have made for our daughter. From day one, the teachers, staff, and administration have supported both students and families with care, thoughtfulness, and professionalism. The learning environment is welcoming, engaging, and focused on helping each child grow and thrive. We are incredibly grateful for the positive impact CMCS has had on our daughter and would highly recommend it to any family exploring educational options. From our daughter, AC: “I love it and think it is very fun. I love all my teachers and all my friends.” “

” From firsthand experience as a parent, this school operates as a supportive and respectful community of educators and learners. My child was able to thrive in this school and build their confidence and love for learning. “

” A fantastic alternative to public schools. Great teachers, small class sizes, Montessori style that integrates their nature and neighborhood into their curriculum. Worth every penny. “