The Del Ray Montessori School is a non-profit Montessori School located in the quaint Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria, Virginia, we are associated and recognized by AMI/USA (Association Montessori International). Founded in 2011, we serve children ages 18 months through age 12 and their families in the DC metropolitan area.
Co-founder & Head of School
Sarah has over 20 years of experience in Montessori education with 12 years serving at The Del Ray Montessori School as Co-Founder, Inaugural Primary Teacher, DRMS Parent and currently serving as the Head of School. Throughout Sarah’s career, she has worked in varying capacities, spending 15 years in the classroom working with children ages 13 months - 6 years, serving as a consultant for AMI/USA, as a member on the board of directors, and as a presenter in the local and Montessori community.
Sarah has a bachelor of arts in psychology from George Mason University, a master’s degree in education from Loyola College in Maryland and Montessori teaching diplomas from Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) from: The Montessori Institute (Denver, Colorado) at the Assistants to Infancy level (birth – age 3), the Washington Montessori Institute (Columbia, Maryland) at the Primary level (ages 3 – 6) and the Foundation of Montessori Studies in Bergamo, Italy at the elementary level (ages 6 – 12). Sarah is also a Consultant at the Primary Level for AMI/USA, visiting Montessori schools throughout the United States to assist them in meeting the strong pedagogical standards set forth by AMI/USA.
Sarah loves to cook, garden and exercise, and also enjoys being outside with her two beautiful children, exploring the glorious nature-based experiences that Virginia has to offer.
How did you come to learn about and love Montessori?
I went to Montessori as a child in Detroit, Michigan. My mother always attributed my pragmaticism to my Montessori education. I personally love that Montessori empowers children to be capable and independent when they are ready to do so, rather than when an adult tells them that they can. I also love that it empowers adults to speak to children in a respectful voice, and treat them like capable humans.
What is your favorite Montessori lesson?
Lessons in grace and courtesy, as these lessons are the foundation for kindness, compassion, and ultimately, peace.
Describe the one WOW factor story you have seen in your children since you have taught Montessori:
Any time a child shows emotional or physical independence, I am incredibly gratified. I also just simply adore watching elementary children lend a helping hand to a much younger 3-year-old. That’s just delightful - and the goal of our work - collaboration and kindness!
