Back

South Walton Montessori Academy

101 Eden Gardens Rd, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

License:
C01WA0015
Type:
Child Care Facility
Status:
Licensed
Records checked:
July 14, 2026
Additional info
Programs and services:
Full Day
Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8:00AM to 3:00PM; Sat-Sun: Closed
Capacity:
79
License expiration:
March 31, 2027
Typical cost: $1,105 (Under 1)
Child’s age

$1,105/mo

Median daily rate: $51.00 (non-Gold Seal only)

Official Florida Division of Early Learning Walton County data.

Not this provider’s price.

Inspection snapshot

Questions worth asking

The available records raise questions worth asking before enrolling.

Next: Review the inspection history below and ask the provider what the records mean and what changed afterward.

Latest inspectionJuly 1, 2026
Latest inspection with no recorded violationsJuly 1, 2026

Summary

This summary covers 12 available inspections for South Walton Montessori Academy from February 16, 2023 through July 1, 2026.

One inspection recorded a violation, with two recorded violations in total.

The most recent higher-concern violation was on February 16, 2023 and involved background screening, with a due date of March 16, 2023.

11 later inspections, from February 22, 2023 through July 1, 2026, showed no recorded violations, but the records do not say whether they were formal follow-ups.

At a glance

Total inspections
12

3 in last 12 months

Recorded violations
2

0 in last 12 months

Higher-concern violations
1

0 in last 12 months

Repeated topics
0

Last 36 months

Local comparison

12 total inspections vs 6.5 local median in 32459

Compared to 12 local facilities

Recorded violations per inspection

This provider
0.17
Local median
0.17

Inspections with higher-concern violations

This provider
8%
Local median
8%

Inspections with recorded violations

This provider
8%
Local median
8%

Repeated topics

This provider
0
Local average
0.25

Repeated topics

Topics that appeared in more than one inspection during the last 36 months. They may reveal a pattern worth examining.

No repeated topics found

The available reports do not show the same violation topic appearing in more than one inspection during the last 36 months. Review the inspection history below for any one-time violations or report details.

Inspection history

Available inspection history. Select a violation topic for more info.

View official report
Medium concern: Equipment or readiness
Report finding
The ground cover or other protective surface under the [swings and slide] was not maintained. CCF Handbook, Section 3.12, D
Correction / follow-up note
The outdoor climbing toy does not have a minimum of 6 inches of resilient surface added under the swings and slide. The Provider will submit pictures of the outdoor climbing toy with additional resilient surface added to meet the fall zone requirements on or before 03/16/2023 via email.Per DCF Handbook:1. If the ground cover in place is loose ground cover (such as, but not limited to: mulch, shredded rubber chips, or sand) a minimum of 6 inches in depth is required in the use zone. Asphalt, concrete, hard packed dirt, hay, grass or leaves are unsuitable for use in the use zone area.
Correction status
Due by March 16, 2023
More details
Report section
SANITATION AND EQUIPMENT - 32 - Outdoor Equipment
Official code
32-07
Higher concern: Background screening
Report finding
An employment history verification was not documented and on file. CCF Handbook, Section 5.1, D
Correction / follow-up note
Employment verification was not completed for the employee listed on the supplemental form. The Provider will complete employment reference checks for the employee. Submit completed employment verification forms to the licensing office on or before 03/16/2023 via email.
Correction status
Due by March 16, 2023
More details
Report section
RECORD KEEPING - 45 - Background Screening Documents
Official code
45-04

Questions to ask

Suggested questions for parents based on recorded violations in inspection reports. If there are not enough source-backed violations, you will see general questions for daycare.

Finding-specific

What is your current process for verifying the employment history of new staff members?

Why ask this
Why ask this
Public records from an inspection in February 2023 noted that an employment history verification was not documented for a staff member. Asking about the current process helps clarify how the center ensures all required background and employment documentation is maintained for every employee.
Context
The center has had multiple clean inspections since this 2023 report.
Related violations
Finding-specific

How do you regularly inspect and maintain the safety surfacing under your outdoor play equipment?

Why ask this
Why ask this
An official inspection report from February 2023 identified that the protective surface under outdoor equipment needed maintenance to meet safety standards. This question allows you to learn about the center's routine for checking play areas to ensure they remain in good condition for the children.
Context
The center has had multiple clean inspections since this 2023 report.
Related violations
General question

What steps do you take to ensure that all staff members are fully trained on emergency procedures and daily supervision requirements?

Why ask this
Why ask this
Understanding how a center prioritizes staff training helps parents feel confident that the team is prepared to manage daily routines and respond effectively to any situation. Consistent training is a key part of maintaining a supportive environment for children.
General question

How do you communicate with families regarding changes in daily routines or updates to facility policies?

Why ask this
Why ask this
Clear communication between the center and families is essential for a strong partnership. Knowing how information is shared ensures that parents stay informed about their child's experience and any operational updates.
General question

Could you describe how you monitor the playground and indoor areas throughout the day to ensure everything remains in good repair?

Why ask this
Why ask this
Regular monitoring of the facility helps maintain a well-kept space for children to learn and play. Asking about this process provides insight into how the center proactively manages its environment.