Montessori Mindset: A Conversation with Camila Campuzano of Montessori Thrive

In this episode of Montessori Mindset, Melissa Rohan, founder of Waterfront Academy, speaks with Camila Campuzano from Montessori Thrive — a global resource hub dedicated to helping Montessori schools grow their programs, strengthen their systems, and communicate their missions more effectively.

The Story Behind Montessori Thrive

Montessori Thrive began nearly a decade ago as Neito Marketing, a passion project co-founded by Kamlam, a Google marketing expert, and Matt Hillis, owner of Baragama schools in California. Their vision was simple yet powerful: to create a marketing agency tailored specifically for Montessori schools, offering authentic materials that would resonate with parents curious about non-traditional education.

Since then, the organization has grown to partner with more than 160 Montessori schools worldwide.

Rebranded as Montessori Thrive, the company is now led by CEO Donna Dehuselair, a Montessori educator with 25 years of experience. Today, Montessori Thrive provides schools with enrollment support, operational guidance, and marketing expertise — from websites and SEO to Google ads and social media content.

Beyond paid services, they also offer a 100% free online community where Montessori leaders can access a library of resources, join weekly town halls, and participate in parent education webinars.

Trends in Montessori Marketing and Enrollment

Camila highlights the biggest current trends shaping Montessori marketing:

• Instagram Reels and short-form video content, which are highly engaging and budget-friendly.

• AI tools like ChatGPT, which parents increasingly use to find local schools.

• Strong websites as the cornerstone of marketing strategy — often the first impression families have of a school.

• Instant booking options, reflecting the expectations of digital-native parents (Millennials and Gen Z).

  
  

Tips for Boosting Visibility in AI Searches

To stand out in AI-driven searches, Montessori Thrive recommends:

• Building robust website content that answers frequently asked questions.

• Maintaining an updated Google My Business profile with accurate hours, location, and school designation.

• Creating blogs and FAQ sections that explain Montessori concepts in approachable language (e.g., “Montessori vs. traditional school”).

• Encouraging reviews on platforms like GreatSchools, Niche, Care.com, and Yelp.

  
  

Understanding SEO

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of ensuring a website meets search engine standards to rank higher in results. Since most families rarely look beyond the first two pages of search results, SEO is critical. It requires ongoing adjustments to keep websites fresh, relevant, and visible.

Meeting Parent Expectations

Today’s parents are open to non-traditional education but expect clarity, consistency, and ease. Key takeaways include:

• Use approachable language instead of unexplained Montessori jargon.

• Offer instant communication through apps like Transparent Classroom or Brightwheel.

• Highlight the return on investment of Montessori education, especially during the crucial 0–6 developmental window.

• Share success stories and testimonials, while also providing performance metrics for parents who value data.

  
  

Budget-Friendly Strategies for Small Schools

For schools with limited budgets, Montessori Thrive suggests:

• Investing in a functional, authentic website.

• Leveraging free social media platforms.

• Encouraging word-of-mouth marketing through testimonials and parent ambassadors.

• Exploring direct mail campaigns like brochures or door hangers.

• Focusing on storytelling and strong tours, since parents often connect most deeply with the person guiding them.

  
  

The Future of Montessori Thrive

The rebrand to Montessori Thrive reflects a deeper commitment to supporting school administration. Their evolving services aim to relieve administrators of marketing burdens while keeping messaging authentic to Montessori.

New offerings include a remote PA service, where trained Montessori professionals assist with administrative tasks, saving leaders time to focus on building community and nurturing students.

How to Connect

Schools and leaders can connect with Montessori Thrive by:

• Visiting montessorithrive.com and booking a solution call directly with Camila.

• Joining the Montessori Thrive community, a free online hub with resources and weekly town halls led by AMI educator Julia.

• Watching recorded town halls on YouTube for ongoing insights and support.

  
  

Final Thoughts

This conversation with Camila Campuzano underscores the importance of authentic communication, digital presence, and community-building in Montessori education today. Montessori Thrive continues to empower schools worldwide, helping them thrive in a rapidly changing landscape while staying true to the heart of Montessori.