A new elementary school will open this fall in St. Cloud, and registration is due shortly after the New Year begins.

The new Central Minnesota Montessori, or CMM, will serve kids in first through third grade. In addition, there are already CMM locations in the St. Cloud area for pre-school children.

Board President Meghan Luebesmier says the CMM mission is to encourage independence, inspire self-direction, and create compassionate individuals in a Christian environment.

The school will enroll 27 kids and employ trained teachers who are familiar with the teaching materials and Montessori philosophy. Prince William and Prince Henry, the founders of Google and Amazon, and Jackie Kennedy all went to these schools around the world.

Two registration events are coming up for parents interested in enrolling their elementary-school children. Registration will be for the 2017-2018 academic year. Application forms will be accepted Jan. 3-13 until 4 p.m. 

The first event will take place Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. at the Great River Regional Library, located at 1300 W. Saint Germain St.  

Another registration wrap up will be held Friday, Jan. 13 from 2-4 p.m. at Caribou Coffee, located at 4135 W. Division St.

If you can’t make it to these events, you can register on the CMM website. Forms and fees can be mailed to: Central Minnesota Montessori, P.O. Box 7952, St. Cloud, MN 56302.