Our History

Staunton Montessori School was founded in 1980 by Scottie Lu Parker Brandt and Steven Brandt to provide a Montessori-based education to local preschool children. In 1983, a parent organization was formed to purchase and operate the school when the Brandts moved from Staunton.

Over the next few years, the school changed from a privately-owned corporation to a non-profit organization, receiving tax-exempt status in 1989. Articles of incorporation and bylaws were created, establishing a Board of Trustees and Board of Directors to oversee operations. Between 1987 and 1997, the school offered only primary classes for area children. Throughout this period, parents and board members often discussed the possibility of offering an elementary program to extend the Montessori learning experience for the school’s students.

In 2001, both boards approved a plan for the expansion of Staunton Montessori School to include two Primary classrooms and an Elementary classroom. The school hired and sponsored two teachers to receive training through the Association Montessori Internationale training centers. Since that time, the school has expanded to three Elementary classrooms and added the Adolescent Program in 2016. In Spring of 2025, the Board made a tough decision to close the Adolescent program until sufficient structures and support could be established to ensure an authentic Montessori program.

In February of 2026, the school announced that they would be coming home to Staunton, and will be moving to the old Statler Brother Complex in August 2026. This move begins the next chapter of Staunton Montessori School. During the 2026-2027 school year, the school will be opening their third Primary program and enhancing our Montessori Mornings offerings to the community. Staunton Montessori School is thrilled to be entering this new chapter of growth in the heart of Staunton City.