The daycare-preschool is located at 812 8th St. NW , just south of Model Hall on land owned by the Minot State University Development Foundation.

A ribbon cutting conducted by the Minot Area Chamber EDC Ambassadors was followed by remarks from Caleb Heilman, co-owner of Midwest Montessori; Dr. Steven Shirley, president of Minot State University; and Rick Hedberg, executive director of the MSU Development Foundation. Afterward, attendees toured the facility and participated in an open house.

Hedberg emphasized the partnership’s dual benefit. “The preschool and daycare will benefit a wide range of individuals in our community, especially MSU early childhood education students by providing hands-on learning opportunities. This practical experience is invaluable for our students,” he said, adding, “This facility is not only addressing a critical community need, but we’re also ensuring that our students gain real-world experience that will prepare them for a future in education and caregiving.”

Owned and operated by Caleb and Courtney Heilman, Midwest Montessori accommodates children from 6 weeks to 6 years old. The facility features a Nido House for infants, 6 weeks-17 months, and separate Toddler and Children’s House classrooms.

Wendy Harper/MDN Midwest Montessori, a new daycare-preschool in northwest Minot, is set up for children to learn and have fun at the same time.

Courtney Heilman reflected on the project’s long path to completion. “The project has been over three years in the making, and we’re just so proud of what it has come to be,” she said.

Gratitude for the project extended to numerous contributors including Caleb Heilman also acknowledging vital support from his extended family, particularly his father, Kent, for hands-on assistance throughout the project.

Midwest Montessori’s mission is to offer a fully implemented Montessori program that emphasizes independence, autonomy, social responsibility, and environmental awareness through movement and creativity, according to a MSU Development Foundation news release.

The foundation highlighted the significant benefit to MSU’s students. The preschool will serve as a hands-on teaching site and practicum opportunity for those studying early childhood education. Midwest Montessori has collaborated closely with MSU faculty, including professors Dan Conn and Karen Foley, as well as the Minot Infant Development Program.

“Our drive to create Midwest Montessori sprang from wanting something better for our own children,” Caleb Heilman said. “We refused to compromise on safety, love, high-quality education, thoughtfully designed play, nutrition and full-time care, and we’re proud Midwest Montessori will offer all these to local families.”

The daycare-preschool already has 15 children enrolled. The facility is planning to open Monday, Aug 25.