At Montessori Gifted Prep, we cultivate a foundation for academic excellence by nurturing each child’s natural love of learning through meaningful engagement and hands-on experience. Guided by Montessori-trained educators, learning is not simply taught—it is lived, as ideas come to life through purposeful exploration and discovery.
Fostering Independence
Empowering children to choose their work and solve problems, building confidence and self-motivation.
The Montessori Approach
The Montessori method respects the natural development of the child, fostering a deep-seated love for learning through self-directed activity and hands-on engagement in a prepared environment.
Respect for the Child
Nurturing the natural drive to explore and understand the world through hands-on materials and sensory discovery.
Individualized Education
Each child is guided at their own pace, with individualized support that nurtures their unique strengths, interests, and development.
The Value of
Multilingual Education
Early multilingual exposure strengthens communication, enhances cognitive development, and fosters a global perspective. Children naturally acquire language through meaningful, daily interaction.
Our History
2015 — The Vision Begins
Montessori Gifted Prep was founded on the belief that all children can achieve academic excellence and develop strong character when given a thoughtfully designed, engaging early education. Guided by a commitment to Montessori principles, innovation, and strong family partnership, our goal is to create an environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
MGP opens in Lincoln Square with one Toddler classroom and one Children’s House classroom, establishing a foundation rooted in academic rigor, independence, and whole-child development.
2020 — A Place to Grow
MGP acquires its permanent home in Lincoln Square, a major milestone that secures long-term stability and allows for thoughtful expansion.
2020-2021 — Creative Solutions
During an unprecedented time for schools, MGP launches small-group “micropods” to ensure continuity of learning in a safe, controlled environment. Through careful protocols and community commitment, MGP operates successfully with zero COVID transmission within the school.
2026 — Today & Beyond
MGP opens its second campus, Montessori Gifted Prep Hinsdale, serving children from infancy through Children’s House, extending its trilingual Montessori model to a new community.
MGP in the News
2017
An interview with our owner, Mr. JC, in which he shares his passion for education and his vision for MGP.
2025
Feature story on the opening of our Hinsdale location, highlighting our dedication to Montessori education and academic excellence.
2025
Our Hinsdale location is featured in a local newspaper serving Chinese families in the Chicagoland area.
Our Founder
“Mr. JC” founded Montessori Gifted Prep with a deep belief in the transformative power of education. Growing up in the Bronx, NY, he experienced firsthand how access to strong educational opportunities can shape a child’s future. That experience continues to guide his work today—creating a school where every child is seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.
Before entering education, JC built a global career in leadership roles at organizations such as Citigroup, Intel, Deutsche Bank, and Bank of America. He holds degrees from the University of Michigan, Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, and the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Yet it was his passion for working with children—and his commitment to expanding access to high-quality early education—that led him to Montessori.
Montessori-trained and deeply engaged in the field of education, JC brings together thoughtful pedagogy, innovation, and a strong partnership with families. His goal is simple: to create an environment where children develop independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning—opening doors for them to pursue any path they choose.
JC Mountainbear
Begin Your
Montessori Journey
Join our warm Montessori community where every child is seen, heard, and nurtured through trilingual discovery in Mandarin, Spanish, and English.