Our School
Our Mission
The Montessori School of Englewood cultivates the potential of children and adults through an unwavering commitment to Montessori education. By honoring identity, strengthening academic achievement, and investing in the preparation of Montessori educators through the Montessori Residency of Chicago—particularly educators of color—we create transformative learning environments that foster leadership, belonging, and meaningful change for all students, individuals, and the communities they serve.
Our Vision
We envision a future where barriers to Montessori education are removed and all children—especially those in historically disinvested communities—have access to affirming, high-quality Montessori learning led by well-prepared, culturally responsive educators. Through the education of students and the preparation of adult Montessori leaders through the Montessori Residency of Chicago, The Montessori School of Englewood is building a more equitable and sustainable Montessori ecosystem—empowering children, educators, and communities to become agents of personal and collective transformation.
Here at TMSOE
We’re bringing Montessori education back to its roots.
- The Montessori School of Englewood is an elementary charter school within the Chicago Public School network. We are located in West Englewood, on Chicago’s South Side. MSE is an open enrollment, tuition-free school for children living within Chicago city limits. It was founded in 2012 by Rita Nolan (M. Ed), who still serves as the executive director.
- At the Montessori School of Englewood, we practice the methodology as it was originally created: for underserved communities. We believe that every child, regardless of economic status, race or gender, deserves the opportunity to receive a Montessori education. We believe that working with our hands, heads and hearts — that teaching the whole child — can lift up communities and build the architects of tomorrow.
Our Values
MSE values uniqueness.
All children learn in different ways. Montessori accommodates all learning styles through individual and small group lessons.
MSE teaches self-regulation.
The materials and routines in the classroom help children learn coordination, concentration, and independence.
MSE empowers children to learn on their own.
The Montessori classroom gives students the tools to follow their interests and curiosities for learning that lasts a lifetime.
MSE builds community.
The mixed age classroom mimics the family structure, with older children being mentors and role models to younger peers.
MSE promotes peace.
Teachers model respect, peaceful conflict resolution, and kindness through trauma-informed interventional skills.
MSE builds innovators.
Studies have shown Montessorians are more creative writers, stronger in math and reading, and interact in a more emotionally positive way.
MSE commits to our families.
MSE believes in the strength of community through our parents. MSE's Family and Community Engagement Coordinator (FACE) serves as liaison and directs any concerns to the Principal/Executive Director. The Principal or Executive Director coordinates any needed meetings.