Why Montessori?

Montessori philosophy designs its educational approach with the developmentally appropriate needs of the student in mind.

Classrooms are student-centered and promote a sense of community.

Seminars are used as tools for developing respect, listening skills, insight, and understanding.

Students engage in projects that interweave subject areas, and students regularly leave the classroom for field studies

Students are coached through the design of their own work plans, and they are given extended blocks of focused work time.

There are clear learning objectives, rubrics, and tools for self-evaluation.

The curriculum encourages both convergent and divergent thinking.

Adolescent Montessori schools have a focus on authentic service work.

Students engage in real-life micro-economies (such as our farm or coffeehouse) to promote self-confidence and provide real work experience during their transition to adulthood.

Coursework is selected thoughtfully with the intent of helping the student find her or his place in society, giving the student regular opportunities to impact the D.C. community in a positive way, and fostering stewardship of humanity and the Earth.