Eugene parents and teachers revive Montessori school after financial collapse

A Montessori school in Eugene is starting a new chapter after parents and educators worked together to reopen the campus following a financial crisis that nearly forced it to shut down.

The newly formed South Hills Montessori School recently hosted an open house to introduce the community to its revived program and leadership.

School nearly closed amid financial problems

The building on Hilyard Street had previously been home to Far Horizons Montessori School, which had operated there since the 1970s.

However, the school shut down in August 2025 after reports surfaced that teachers were not being paid due to financial mismanagement.

Former teacher Joseph Sanchez said the situation forced staff members to step away when it became clear that the school’s operations could not continue under the previous leadership.

Parents organize to keep school community alive

After learning their children might lose their school, families began organizing to preserve the learning community.

Parent Brian Guerra said families joined forces to create a new administration that would keep the school operating and rehire teachers who previously worked there.

The group ultimately launched South Hills Montessori in the same building, separating from the former leadership.

Community support helps restart the school

Parents and teachers say the reopening effort received help from other Montessori schools across Lane County, including donations of classroom materials and supplies.

Volunteers also worked together to refresh the campus, including repainting parts of the building and preparing classrooms for students.

Parent volunteer Tamara Andreas said the community collaboration made it possible to reopen the school despite significant challenges.

Open house welcomes families

South Hills Montessori recently invited families to visit the campus during an open house event and plans to continue offering tours for prospective students.

Organizers say their goal is to rebuild the school gradually while preserving the close-knit community that has supported the effort from the beginning.