50th Anniversary

50th Anniversary

Fifty years ago this year, Dr. Maria Montessori’s vision for global education reached a small group of parents in Richmond Virginia. These ingenious families wanted something more for their children. They learned that Montessori, an Italian doctor and researcher, was revolutionizing the educational experience of students around the world. And they were intrigued. As a result of their efforts, Richmond Montessori School opened its doors in September 1966.

Richmond Montessori School’s creation is grounded in Montessori principles and values. Dr. Montessori’s scientific method of education has been powerful and lasting, and it’s outcomes outstanding because it is rooted in the tested and refined study of how children naturally learn. But Montessori promises much more than academic success. In its holistic approach, it prepares children to be creative, self-motivated, kind, resilient, curious, innovative and tolerant global citizens.

To describe Richmond Montessori School as a child centered environment does not do it justice. Since the birth of the school we have had one single goal - to honor each child’s unique spirit while keeping him fully engaged in intellectually stimulating and fulfilling work. This task is what ultimately leads to personal fulfillment and happiness, an outcome that has withstood the test of time.

“The things he sees are not just remembered; they form a part of his soul.” -Maria Montessori

At this meaningful milestone in the history of our school, we reflect on our bright past and look forward to an even brighter future. We must continue to encourage meaningful interactions between our students and the community, we must preserve learning environments that encourage reflection, inquiry, challenge and creativity and we must continue to provide a vibrant and student centered curriculum through the process of transformative innovation. As we evolve we will not lose sight of our ambition; to inspire our students and the generations of students to come.

As we embark on the next half-century, we look forward to sharing the stories of our timeline, to celebrating who we are today and to invigorating you with our vision for the future of Richmond Montessori School.

“Within the child lies the fate of the future.” -Maria Montessori

Read an excerpt from "The timeless human spirit," written by Renilde Montessori, granddaughter of Maria Montessori.

50th Anniversary Planning Committee

  • Erin Campbell, RMPA President
  • Rejena Carreras, President, Carreras Jewelers
  • Rob Davenport, Chair, Advancement Committee, RMS Board of Trustees, Sales Manager, Business Development, CF Sauer Co.
  • Gary Flake, RMS Enrichment Program
  • Stephanie Ford, Director, Business Development, Warren Whitney
  • Kristin Giacco, RMS Early Childhood Coordinator
  • Vicki Haneberg, Civic Leader
  • Allison Held, Chair, RMS Board of Trustees, Attorney, State Corporation Commission
  • Krista Cametas Jones, Real Estate Investor/Civic Leader
  • Martha Mabey, Author, Past RMS Head of School
  • Maureen Neal, Chief Operating Officer, Advancement, The Daily Planet
  • Carli Nelson, Principal, Monumental Consulting, LLC
  • Amy Paisley, Civic Leader
  • Pinki Shah, Civic Leader
  • Allison Talibi, Lecturer, Department of Social Sciences, John Tyler Community College
  • Will Toms, College Student, RMS Alum, Class of 2009
  • Jean Vencl, Civic Leader, Retired RMS Teacher
  • Jessica Wilburn, College Student, RMS Alum, Class of 2011

Yearlong events will commemorate our legacy, celebrate our successes, and honor our community:

  • New Parent Orientation and Social, August 23
  • Opening Celebration and School Wide Ice Cream Kick Off on Sunday, August 28
  • Carreras Jewelers Wine and Shine Event, September 28
  • Falcon Spirit Days
  • Montessori Founders Society Social, October 12
  • Harvestfest, October 15
  • Grandparents and Great Friends Day on November 22, 2016
  • Winterfest, February 4
  • Visiting scholar Stephen Hughes, February 9
  • 50th Anniversary Gala, May 6
  • Music and Arts Show, May 11
  • Falcon Spirit Week, May 15-19

Special thanks to our 50th Anniversary Sponsors

Platinum Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

Bronze Sponsors

In-Kind Sponsors