Raising whole humans, changing humanity.
It's Official
SMS is coming home to Staunton!
We are thrilled to share that in August 2026, Staunton Montessori School will relocate to the historic Statler Brothers Complex at 501 Thornrose Avenue.
Learn MoreOur Programs

Primary
The classic Montessori classroom: a prepared environment where children direct their own learning through hands-on materials and purposeful work.
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Elementary
Collaborative research, creative problem-solving, and deep exploration across disciplines — guided by the child's natural drive to understand the world.
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Before & After School Care
Flexible extended care in a warm, relaxed setting — giving families the support they need while children enjoy enriching activities.
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Summer Camp
A joyful summer of outdoor exploration, art, nature study, and adventure — rooted in the Montessori spirit of discovery.
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Infant & Toddler / Montessori Mornings
A nurturing environment where the youngest learners develop trust, independence, and a foundation for lifelong curiosity.
Learn MoreOur Mission
Rooted in the AMI Montessori tradition, we nurture a compassionate community where capable, curious, and joyful learners grow into global citizens.
Vision
Children are empowered to explore boldly, think independently, and act with integrity.
Our community embraces shared responsibility, respect for all people, and a spirit of lifelong learning.
Together, we envision a future shaped by thoughtful stewards of a connected, peaceful, and sustainable world.
Why SMS?
At Staunton Montessori School, we offer more than education. We offer a vision of what's possible when children are given the space to grow into who they are meant to be.
We nurture capable, curious, and joyful learners who grow into thoughtful global citizens. Rooted in the AMI Montessori tradition, our child-centered classrooms promote independence, respect, and a lifelong love of learning.
Through hands-on materials, individualized instruction, and mixed-age communities, children at SMS develop strong academic foundations and essential life skills — confidence, compassion, and creativity. Our guides support each student's unique path, encouraging exploration, problem-solving, and leadership.
We are more than a school — we are a compassionate community working together to raise children who care deeply about themselves, others, and the world around them. Join us in shaping a future led by curious minds and kind hearts.
Whole Child
Development
45+ Years
of Excellence
Inclusive, Safe
Environment
Experienced
& Dedicated Faculty
Individualized
Learning
Ready to find out more?
We’d love the opportunity to share our school with you! Schedule a tour and find out more about the Admissions process.
AMI Montessori Accreditation
Staunton Montessori School is accredited by the Association Montessori Internationale (A.M.I.) and licensed under the Virginia Department of Education and adheres to all state and local regulations. Our school is a non-profit 501c-3 organization, secular, and we rely on parent/guardian involvement and support to thrive. At SMS, we are committed to affirming and welcoming students, parents/guardians, and staff without regard to race, sex, gender orientation, or religion.
Staunton Montessori School is proud to follow the paramount standards of the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), the organization founded by Maria Montessori to preserve the integrity of her work. AMI accreditation ensures that schools uphold the highest standards in Montessori education through teacher preparation, classroom practices, and child development principles. This commitment affirms our dedication to authentic, high-quality Montessori education.
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