Message from Founder & Head of Schools

Deja L. Jones, Ph.D.

Honeypot Montessori is a pioneering force in early childhood education. It is the first nature school and Montessori school in Newark, NJ. Led by a Black woman, our institution is dedicated to fostering nature-immersive learning experiences and expanding parent choice in high-quality early childhood education. We aim to prioritize access to the Montessori pedagogy for Black and Brown children, challenging the narrative that Montessori education is reserved for the affluent.

At the heart of Newark's revitalization and environmental justice movements, Honeypot Montessori is committed to reshaping collective understanding toward educating Black and Brown children for life and liberation. The Montessori method serves as our guiding philosophy, inspiring radical creativity, independence, and critical thinking among our students as they journey toward self-construction.

Central to our mission is the promotion of environmental stewardship and education. We seek to provide early childhood-age children access to nature education, offering physical and mental health benefits. Since our inception in Fall 2022, strategic partnerships with organizations such as the Wildflower Schools, Branch Brook Park Alliance, Tinkergarten, Outdoors on Purpose, Lego, Newark Museum of Arts, and Apiary in the Sky have enriched our programming and diversified learning opportunities for our students.

Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 academic year, as we move into a secure and permanent facility. This expansion will enhance our programming and enable us to leverage state childcare funding. Through our relentless commitment to innovation, equity, and excellence, Honeypot Montessori remains steadfast in its mission to inspire the next generation of leaders and changemakers in Newark and beyond.