Meet Hilltop's Animals
As an authentic Montessori school, many of our classrooms have animals that reside in appropriate cages or homes. Aside from being cute and interesting to watch, pets bring a lot to a classroom. Having pets to care for helps teach responsibility, compassion, empathy, and an understanding and respect for other living things. Pets teach children to value life other than their own, in addition to teaching them about the natural growth and life cycles of many different species which they can observe on a daily basis. Another benefit is the stress reduction that occurs as a result of observing and petting the animals, from which both the children and the animals can benefit. We invite you to come in and meet our representatives from the Animal Kingdom.
Resources on Montessori and Classroom Animals:
Rooney

Stella

Leopard Gecko

Mario

Chloe

Chewbacca

Violet

Ms. Michele’s frenchie can sometimes be found in the office lounging or pulling on the bows on Ms. Shiela’s shoes. Although Violet does not intrude into the classrooms, the students enjoy dropping by when Violet is on campus to say hello. Although Violet is young, she’s expressed interest in being a therapy dog so we look forward to having her offer her services as she grows and matures.
Oreo

Severus

Apiary

Libby Listens

Libby Listens, the Golden Retriever & Other Guests: Libby Listens is just one example of one of the animal visitors that might frequent campus. The school regularly hosts visits from chickens, geckos, birds of prey and other opportunities to experience the animal kingdom up close as part of the curriculum.
Hermit Crabs

Ninja hermit crabs: The upper elementary class has hermit crabs and a beautiful habitat in which to observe them. Their crabs are extremely eager to explore and usually can be found at the very top of their cage.
Cotton

Fish

More Hermit Crabs

Tu the Gecko
