Thisinstitution is part ofStep By Step Montessori Schools, which has locations throughout the Twin Cities area. All Step by Step centers are open year-round and accept children 6 weeks old through third grade in the school-aged program. The Montessori principles for early childhood include "freedom, grace and courtesy, independence order and respect," with the specially prepared Montessori environment designed to provide the child with both a solid academic foundation and strong "character education."