Our History
The Beginning
Montecito Preschool’s founders, Molly and Jim Matthews, had a passion for teaching and a deep affection for young children. They dreamed of educating children in a safe, warm and natural environment. They discovered the Grant Road property in Los Altos on two gorgeous acres, with charming brick buildings all tucked away in a peaceful neighborhood. The Matthews understood the importance of the child/animal/environment bond. They designed a campus that would feel like Grandmother’s home with towering trees, forts, special nooks for play, barnyard animals and lush gardens.
Montecito Preschool Opens
In 1960 Montecito Preschool opened its doors to its first preschoolers. The Matthews formed teams of nurturing teachers and early childhood experts. They pioneered a “hands-on curriculum” where self-directed play experiences were designed that encouraged children to develop their imaginative minds, to problem solve, and to learn through discovery.
Today
Now, almost 60 years have passed. When children walk through the gates, they are transported into a natural wonderland, alive with the sounds of cooing doves and sounds of laughter. As the second generation, the Matthews’ daughters Erin Mobley and Megan Matthews have dedicated their careers to continuing Montecito Preschool’s legacy. Through ongoing study of current Child Development research and Education curriculum, they are ensuring that the learning environment and experiences at Montecito Preschool continues to meet the founders’ original vision: “Providing a hands-on academic curriculum in a rich natural environment.”