Inspired by the philosophy of educator and physician Maria Montessori, Elvira and Otis Charles established the Washington Montessori School (WMS) in 1965. The school has flourished since then and now offers academic programs for students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, as well as special programs for infants and toddlers. In 2003, WMS moved to a new, state-of-the-art building on a beautiful, wooded 48-acre campus.

WMS has a special focus on developing each child's unique capabilities through a commitment to the development of self-esteem, responsibility, and independence based on Montessori philosophy, common sense, and current educational research. WMS is a joyful learning community that expects the involvement of families and faculty and encourages the involvement of the community at large.

Our objective is for students to become confident, autonomous adults with a personal philosophy that includes sensitivity and respect for other people and the environment, a sense of justice, a belief in the peaceful resolution of differences, and a clear recognition of their own role in society. We are dedicated to the intellectual development of our students so that they realize their full potential and have the ability to work diligently and creatively at vocations and avocations throughout their lives.