August 2025 Business of the Month: Growing Light Montessori School
For more than two decades, Growing Light Montessori School has been a shining example of what it means to invest deeply in both education and community. This August, the Heber Valley Chamber is proud to recognize Growing Light Montessori School as our  Business of the Month—an honor that celebrates not only the outstanding educational approach but also the lasting contributions by co-owners Sarah Harrigan and Tara Stafford to the families and children of Heber Valley.
A Bright Beginning in the Heart of Midway
Co-owners and co-directors Tara and Sarah first met over 20 years ago while teaching at a Montessori school in Park City. Both brought unique backgrounds and extensive Montessori training—Tara receiving her certifications in California, and Sarah in New Jersey—along with a shared vision for education rooted in the Montessori philosophy. Recognizing the need for a Montessori school right here in Heber Valley, the dynamic duo embarked on an incredible journey and opened their doors in Midway. Today, they remain committed to the recognized and proven trainings of the American Montessori Society.
What began in the old Fill’Er Up Coffee Station building in Midway has evolved into a thriving, purpose-built schoolhouse on Midway Main Street. In 2015, Tara and Sarah designed their current location from the ground up, tailoring every element, from the height of sinks and counters to the open, flowing classroom spaces, all to create the most intentional and effective learning environment possible for their young students.
A Classroom That Feels Like Family
Serving children ages three to six, Growing Light Montessori School offers a multi-age classroom setting where older students naturally take on mentorship-like roles with younger classmates. This creates a close-knit, familial environment where cooperation and empathy are as important as academic learnings.
The Montessori approach blends self-motivation with gentle educator guidance, allowing students to explore materials and activities that spark their curiosity. Every shelf, table, and learning tool is within easy reach, encouraging hands-on learning. Lessons are designed to engage the senses while incorporating colors, textures, sequencing, and patterns to help students absorb concepts in a more tangible and memorable way.
Learning Within & Beyond the Classroom Walls
Growing Light Montessori School offers a wonderful outdoor space that is just as intentional in learning as the indoor classroom. The large play area encourages exploration, creativity, and physical activity in a natural setting. Students spend time engaging with the natural environment, whether through outdoor play, nature-based activities, or seasonal art projects.
The school year runs from just after Labor Day through the end of May each year. Plus, engaging summer camps are also offered for continued enrichment over the summer break. The summer camps are led by teacher assistants and often focus more on art and outdoor activities, giving children a chance to enjoy a relaxed, creativity-driven learning experience over the summer months.
Dedicated to Professional Excellence
One of the defining features of Growing Light Montessori Shcool is its commitment to proper training and certifications. Tara and Sarah, along with their teaching assistants, have all completed formal Montessori education through accredited programs and all approved through the American Montessori Society. This level of professionalism is one of the keys to the school’s long-term success and the reason parents trust them year-after-year.
And when students transition to their next school, Growing Light Montessori School provides detailed progress records to help teachers and faculty members better understand each child’s learning style and strengths—a thoughtful touch that supports each student’s continued success.
Deep Roots in the Local Community
Growing Light Montessori School has been an integral part of the Heber Valley community for over 23 years. Tara and Sarah have raised their own families here, enjoying the valley's abundant outdoor recreation and the close connections of small-town living.
Their relationship with the Chamber is equally longstanding. In fact, they were named the Heber Valley Chamber Business of the Month 20 years ago and have been active members for over two decades!
More Than Just Recognition
The Business of the Month award is about more than recognition—it’s also about celebrating the individuals who make a meaningful and lasting impact in our valley. Growing Light Montessori School has educated hundreds of local children, given them a strong academic and social foundation, and fostered a love of lifelong learning.
Their commitment to quality education, their passion for the Montessori philosophy, and their unwavering support for the community make Tara, Sarah, and the entire Growing Light Montessori School team incredibly deserving of this honor.
Congratulations to Growing Light Montessori School, and Tara Stafford and Sarah Harrigan specifically, for being named the Heber Valley Chamber August 2025 Business of the Month. Our community is brighter because of the light you’ve helped grow for more than two decades.
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