Parkside Community Montessori was founded by educators who believe that a quality Montessori education should be accessible to all children—not just a privileged few. With a shared commitment to inclusivity and a passion for child-centered learning, we created a school where every child can thrive, explore, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
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As a locally owned and operated school, we are proud to be a part of the Loudoun County community. Our founders, longtime educators and residents, saw the growing need for an authentic Montessori program that puts families first. We are dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where children of all backgrounds are supported in their individual growth—academically, socially, and emotionally.
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At Parkside, community is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that education is strongest when families, teachers, and children work together in partnership. By fostering independence, curiosity, and a deep respect for others, we prepare our students not just for school, but for a lifetime of meaningful contributions to the world around them.
What is Montesori
In 1907, Maria Montessori founded her first school, Casa dei Bambini—Italian for “The Children’s House.” She deliberately chose this name to emphasize the contrast between her child-centered approach and the traditional, adult-driven methods of education that dominated then and continue in many schools today.
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Montessori believed the most effective way to educate children is by creating a carefully designed learning environment that nurtures the whole child—addressing not only academic growth but also social and emotional development. In this model, the teacher’s role is to observe, support, and gently guide each child’s learning journey. By following the child’s natural interests, educators can introduce materials and experiences that align with their readiness to learn. This approach fosters deep concentration, greater mastery of skills, and a joyful, engaging learning experience.
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Through her extensive study of children from birth to adulthood, Montessori developed a comprehensive educational philosophy based on psychological, philosophical, and pedagogical principles. Her method, built around hands-on, self-directed learning with purposefully designed materials, has proven effective for all learners—ranging from those with learning challenges to those who are academically gifted. Today, the Montessori Method continues to inspire educators worldwide, empowering children to become independent, lifelong learners.
