About Montessori School of Durham
Almost fifty years ago, a diverse group of Durham parents seeking an alternative educational path for their children founded the Montessori School of Durham. They had envisioned a school that would foster a child’s intrinsic desire to learn in an environment that nurtures children to discover who they truly are. In its early years, the school operated in a variety of locations across Durham before school leaders purchased land and built the idyllic seven-acre campus that today serves approximately 180 students from infancy through 6th grade. MSD’s campus is filled with beautiful and spacious classrooms, inviting playgrounds, and garden spaces that give children daily opportunities to work, explore, and play in a natural environment. Families and faculty alike describe the campus as a distinctive and beloved part of the school’s identity. A Montessori education is highly individualized to each child’s unique developmental path. Modern neuroscience affirms that classic Montessori methods promote problem solving, independent thinking, creativity, collaboration, and self-direction. Children learn at an appropriate pace while developing confidence, responsibility, joy in discovery, and an appreciation of nature. Each Montessori class operates on the principle of freedom within limits. Since its inception in 1976, Montessori School of Durham has been affiliated with the American Montessori Society, and in 1996 was recognized as the first school in North Carolina to become an Accredited School by the AMS. Today, MSD remains one of only six schools in the state of North Carolina to hold this distinction. MSD offers programs for infants (6-15 months), toddlers (15 months – 3 years), early childhood (3-6 years), lower elementary (grades 1-3), and upper elementary (grades 4-6). MSD is also distinguished by the strength of its community. Families bring time, talent, perspective, and partnership that enrich the educational experience and help sustain a warm, supportive, and highly engaged school culture. To learn more, visit Montessori School of Durham’s website at https://www.msdurham.org/.
