Bowie Montessori Childrens House

Posted: May 22, 2018

My daughter is only 3 years old.

Posted: May 22, 2018

Posted: May 22, 2018

The kids at this school are so loving and help each other out. It is truly a Montessori place. They really are supportive and I get emotional thinking about it.

Posted: May 22, 2018

Posted: May 22, 2018

Posted: May 22, 2018

Posted: May 22, 2018

We love this school and more importantly my child looks forward to going to school every single day. This to me is a mark of a good school. I wish it was around for ever but that wasn't to be.

Posted: January 22, 2018

Posted: January 22, 2018

Posted: January 22, 2018

Posted: January 22, 2018

Posted: January 22, 2018

Posted: January 22, 2018

Posted: January 22, 2018

BMCH is in financial trouble. As a result, there are extremely large classrooms and a lack of leadership. In the one year, I was there at least 3 teachers and the assistant principal all left. Teachers are discouraged from communicating with parents and from what I understand are treated very badly. When my son transferred to another Montessori school he was markedly behind meaning that he had not been introduced to age-appropriate lessons. One selling point was the beautiful campus and all the great things they kids learn from gardening to taking care of animals. While he did get playground time every day (lame playground though), none of the outdoor lessons we were promised happened while my son was in attendance. Additionally, he was scared of his teacher and spent a good portion of the time avoiding her rather than learning. In numerous instances her response to children was decidedly not in the spirit of Montessori. I get mad every time I think about how much money I paid for a sub-par education.

Posted: December 26, 2017

Posted: December 26, 2017

Posted: December 26, 2017

My daughter has grown tremendously since starting at this school a year ago, both with independence and intellectually.

Posted: December 26, 2017

The school teaches children to respect each other, learning, and the classroom. The animal chores are also an amazing additional way that they get first hand practice in being nurturing.

Posted: December 26, 2017

Posted: December 26, 2017

Learning and lessons are individually chosen based on how the child learns and when they are interested in that particular skill. My daughter has been very happy "choosing" her own work.

Posted: December 26, 2017

I would rate our experience as nothing short of the best. Our family as a whole has grown with our daughter, such as including her in chores at home. I've learned that my child is smarter and more capable than I'd have ever thought. She is overall happier having had experience at the school, and I'd recommend BMCH to anyone.

Posted: December 21, 2017

The administration has always been professional, helpful, and seems to be genuinely interested in the education of our children.

Posted: December 21, 2017

We do not have children with learning differences. We can say that the school encourages independence, and that the students are each learning at their own pace.

Posted: December 21, 2017

We believe the students at this school are more courteous and respectful with each other when compared to other schools our children have attended. If bullying were an issue we don’t believe it would be tolerated with the high standards of behavior.

Posted: December 21, 2017

We have had our children at Bowie Montessori for several years. At every turn it has been a positive experience. The environment is ideal for families who are seeking an educational experience for their children that encompasses the whole child. We highly recommend it.

Posted: December 21, 2017

True to Montessori philosophy, the homework doesn’t begin until students are in the adolescent program. At that point, the expectations are realistic for this age group. Not only that, but the homework is purposeful and our child was not only ready for this new responsiblity but appreciates the necessity of it.

Posted: December 21, 2017

All of the teachers are AMI trained, and we have heard that AMI has a high standard. You are more likely to get a real Montessori experience if your school is AMI accredited.

Posted: December 21, 2017

There is a strong emphasis on care of the environment and something the school refers to as “grace and courtesy.” We think the focus on learning to care for the environment develops into a care for and respect for others. Respect for others is encouraged and also fosters those qualities of integrity and compassion.

Posted: October 16, 2017

I would not recommend this school to anyone with its management in the hands it is currently in. The only hope the school had left last year along with some of the best staff the school had. You really have to take a look at a place when the administration changes in some way every year and when so many critical staff leave after one year. What is really going on? With other Montessori options in the area, I would recommend one of those. Don't let the beautiful campus fool you.

Posted: October 16, 2017

Posted: October 16, 2017

One of my children had a good though inexperienced teacher, however my other child's teacher was not only ineffective but downright mean and labeled my child and others children. It is no surprise that so many families and staff members left the school last year and after doing my research found that this was not the first time. To call this school Montessori is a disgrace to the philosophy. I know there were certain staff members who were trying to make the school more Montessori but weren't permitted to within the guidelines of the head honcho. Sadly, those who were best in Montessori and best for the school left. I can only imagine that state of affairs there now. There are a few other Montessori schools in the area that are far better and well worth the drive.

Posted: October 16, 2017

The teachers who were good, developed these traits in the children. Those who were not, did not at all. One of my children got it, one did not. It must have been hard for the teachers who did develop such characteristics because the owner of the school did not develop integrity, compassion, nor respect. Same for the principal. A key way to develop those is through honesty and responsibility, something that was non-existent at the highest level.

Posted: October 16, 2017

The only real Montessori leaders at BMCH have left. The school is left in the hands of one incompetent person and one over controlling person. I had seen the school change leadership a few times and the one constant is a real detriment to the school. The most recent leader to leave was the best one I've seen there and I had hopes the school could turn around.

Posted: October 16, 2017

We didn't have any first hand experience with this however I would imagine they supported learning differences fine, due to the individualized approach to learning.

Posted: October 16, 2017

We didn't have first hand experience with bullying, however I heard that it was not an issue here. The discipline policy seemed to work from my perspective without any experience with having to use it.

Posted: December 29, 2016

When my daughter graduated I was concerned about the transition from Montessori to Traditional. Nonetheless, she never skipped a beat. Bowie Montessori teaches the children to work diligently and with a code of excellence whether it is at school, home or anywhere.

Posted: December 29, 2016

My daughter graduated last school year and my son is currently a third year student. I cannot thank BMCH enough for investing so much into my children. The staff and administration are WONDERFUL! The curriculum is geared to allow students to succeed not only academically but also in everyday life.

Posted: September 27, 2016

Policies and procedures don't make sense or benefit students. Not known for a challenging curriculum.

Posted: June 1, 2016

My son is going to this school for 2 years now. The first year was great in the Toddler program. There was a change in management in the last year and it has been terrible ever since. There is no common sense in their rules and they are apparently written in stone. The new principal is just absolutely rigid and arrogant. We are not re-enrolling our child for next year. There are other schools in a 10 mile radius which are much better!

Posted: June 1, 2016

Posted: June 1, 2016

Posted: June 1, 2016

Posted: December 11, 2015

Bowie Montessori is a wonderful place. I thoroughly appreciate my children's education there. They are happy and cared for and learning so very much. The teachers and assistants and administration at the school are amazing, friendly, helpful, supportive and caring. Everyone knows my children and it makes me feel as though they are treated like family. It's a wonderful community. The campus is beautiful and cared for with safety in mind. My children excel and look forward to school every day. I highly recommend this school. I've been so proud of my children's accomplishments academically and socially.

Posted: December 11, 2015

Posted: December 11, 2015

Posted: December 11, 2015

Posted: December 7, 2015

Bowie Montessori Children's House has been the perfect fit for my family. It is hands down the best Montessori school I have visited in the area.

Posted: November 23, 2015

My grandchildren attend BMCH. From the moment I saw the campus and met the staff, I knew it was the perfect place for them to be!
I see happy children full of care and concern for one another. Independent little people! Not just my grandchildren! So pleased with how much my little ones love to go to school there, and love to hear them talk about their experiences at BMCH .

Posted: September 11, 2015

The teachers at BMCH get to know your child as an individual and teach them based on their particular academic ability. My children love their teachers and we have had a great experience with the teachers we have worked with thus far at BMCH

Posted: September 11, 2015

Posted: September 11, 2015

Posted: September 11, 2015

BMCH has been a wonderful place for my children to grow, learn and thrive.

I was greatly impressed with the campus, classrooms and teaching staff when I first visited the school with my husband. We were thrilled to find such a wonderful place and elated when our children began at the school.
We heard wonderful things during our tour about the school and have found each one to be actualized. My children have leaped ahead in reading and language skills. They have become highly proficient. I am constantly astounded by their level of understanding of certain concepts (history, geography, science, etc.) In addition, their confidence has increased as has their comfort level around other adults.

The new administration is great. I look forward for the year ahead and am so thankful that my children have found a home at BMCH!

Posted: August 7, 2015

We heard great things about Montessori schools & when we visited the school they made us all kinds of promises (ex: they told us they have a nap room & my kid can go there for naps but once enrolled they told me that the nap room was for kids <3 & they didn't have room for her). 2 weeks after school started the teacher's aid in my child's primary care asked me during pick up "why is my kid so lazy?" She said that in front of about 15 of her peers & I was mortified. Things went downhill from there. All we got was an apology from the teacher & a shoulder shrug of an apology from the head mistress (who btw was ruling kids & parents with intimidation). My kid hated going there & she used to love her other pre-k. It's been 3 months since we left BMCH & my child refers to the aid as the only person who has ever been mean to her (I.e. She won't allow her do her favorite activities, won't let her sit next to her friends during lunch, & talk to her in a very mean way). The parent teacher conf was useless as her teacher was very passive-aggressive & needed head mistress's permission for everything. Forget the $, I wouldn't go back to this school even if it was free. Thank goodness we had the ability to move & provide better education for my kids. PS: yes, the admin staff are terrible. So pretty much the only positive thing is the landscaping.

Posted: June 19, 2015

When my children started at BMCH, we were promised the world. We were guaranteed the staff was dedicated to working with the parents to ensure the best education possible for our children.

Our second year at BMCH, my daughter had a difficult time reading, the teacher suggested that we have her eyes checked--we did, but this didn't fix the problem. The following year, my daughter saw a specialist because we were told she couldn't focus. We later discovered that my daughter, going into her third year (3rd grade) couldn't read at a 1st grade level. After 3 months at Sylvan, she is reading ahead of her peers, is focused on her subject, and now loves to read.

This year, we were promised she would meet "regularly" with a reading specialist--it never happened. After testing for possible enrollment at a new school, we learned my son (1st grade) is far behind in reading, spelling and math.

In my experience, the school talks a good game, but never followed through on anything. I feel that my decision to place my children in BMCH has set them back years behind their peers. If only I could do it all over again...

Posted: June 19, 2015

In the several years we have been at BMCH, promises were made on academic improvements that never became a reality. Teachers promised that they would be available when needed, but it was a constant struggle to get meets with the teachers and/or the Director--phone calls were ignored and never returned

Posted: June 2, 2015

His teacher recognizes who my son is and pushes him to do what he needs to do. He sees his potential and encourages it.

Posted: June 2, 2015

Right now for my son, he doesn't have homework from the school but he does a page of work that I give him everynight. It's been less stressful on both of us with our family life

Posted: June 2, 2015

Posted: June 2, 2015

My son absolutely loves his school! Before he started BMCH, he was at another PG County school. My son would tell me everyday that he did not want to go to school...this was in 3rd Grade. Since he has been to BMCH, he has not once said that to me. Infact, he can not wait for school to start when summer is over. He has grown there tremendously. The teachers that he has had recognizes who he is the things he excells at and the things he needs to improve and they are always working on both areas. Only thing I would like the school to do more is have orientation at the beginning of the school year to let parents know what the upcoming school year looks like, what's expected for that year from students. It would be great to have more interaction between parents and teachers. Other then that, I would recommend this school to anyone....and I do anytime I'm asked!

Posted: March 3, 2014

Our 2 children love going to school at Bowie Montessori. The work is challenging and rewarding for our children. Teachers are caring and well-educated, the academic administrator has been very helpful in explaining stages of child development and assisting with problems, and the managing director has created a smoothly-run, child-centered, safety-conscious school and beautiful environment. Our children will continue at Bowie Montessori through the 8th grade.

Posted: February 27, 2014

I don't know where to begin since there are so many wonderful aspects of BMCH! We have had children attending this school for 8 years & it keeps getting better! The teachers & administration are top notch in their concern, knowledge, and commitment to the children and the parents. The director works hard to make sure the parents are well informed & the school is running smoothly with improvements constantly being added. Our children have flourished here, not only academically, but socially as well. They love their classrooms, teachers, & fellow students. They also love the beautiful campus they get to enjoy on a daily basis, either at recess, PE, or on a nature walk exploring the plants & animals. They love being able to learn Spanish, try their hand in Art, & practice various roles in Drama. The new reading specialist is no less than excellent! She took one of my children who had no reading experience at all to reading any book they desire in just 3 months. This is just one example of the level of dedication given to students. They are constantly being challenged and given new opportunities to learn. You will be hard pressed to find another school as amazing as BMCH!

Posted: February 27, 2014

Sensational school with fantastic faculty and campus. My children love this school and thrive in the Montessori environment. There are times when my kids are home on break and tell me they want to go back to school! I highly recommend BMCH to anyone seeking a welcoming school for their child, where they can learn and develop at the same time.

Posted: February 9, 2014

Bowie Montessori Childrens House Our children have thrived academically and socially at BMCH. It is truly a testament to the teachers and staff. We have been pleased as parents with not only their academic progress, but also the wonderful friends they have made. We look forward to our children's continued academic progress.

Posted: January 23, 2014

Initially when our child attended the school, I was excited about the experience and the approach to learning. Now after being at the school for a number of years, I remain disappointed in the lack of parental input and involvement allowed by the administration. Decisions are made without concern for the impact on the parents and their children. There still remains this feeling as though you are not allowed to express your opinion. For your opinions are received but not heard. When the administration is approached with concerns, the parents are given relatively disingenuous responses and are ignored. All of this saddens me greatly because I truly wanted to believe in the school and what it has to offer.

Posted: January 16, 2014

Bowie Montessori has excellent teachers (most have at least one Masters degree), a facility that provides many learning opportunities, and a beautiful campus where students walking along the pathways greet adults with big smiles. In addition to classroom teachers, there is a full-time art teacher and a full-time reading specialist, as well as assistants for chorus, drama, carpentry, and nature studies. There are seven separate play areas with several connecting paths on the 22-acre campus. Organized PE classes include SPARK, personal best, fitness, and folk dance. There are afterschool classes, too, for taekwondo, dance, and yoga, as well as chess and STEM. There are computer labs in both the upper and lower campuses for elementary and jr high students, as well as a WeatherBug station at the school. Several jr high classes are scheduled each week that incorporate computer learning, and students will begin an engineering class in the 3rd quarter. For many years the big jr high trip has been a 3-day adventure at Genesee Valley Learning Center and students rave about the wonderful experience. There have been many updates to buildings and grounds that have made BMCH a peaceful oasis.

Posted: September 9, 2013

We are so excited to start the our third year at BMCH! The school is wonderful and we're happy about the addition of a Reading Specialist to the staff...just another way to show how much they care about their students needs. What a great place!

Posted: May 8, 2013

My son is a student at BMCH and this is his 6th year in the school. This is THE best fit for my son. The program lets him learn at his pace and the teachers are very encouraging.. Academically he is way above the curve, but more importantly we as parents feel that he is getting a well rounded education. There are a lot of after school activities offered this year. There was some chaos a couple of years back when the administration changed but things have stabilized now. The staff and teachers are the absolute best.

Posted: April 29, 2013

Enroll Today!!! I have been a parent at BMCH for three years now. I have two children attending BMCH. As a parent, I marvel at how they have grown in knowledge and in self confidence. My kids are so excited about learning and about BMCH that they often ask , "We're not going to be late for school...are we?" They love waking up in the morning to go to school. The teachers are incredible! My kids are advanced in math, have a passion for creative writing, and are curious about their environment. You can't put a price tag on that kind of education! In addition to the education, there's a variety of extracurricular activities offered to the students. The school offers, Yoga, Indian Dance, Drama, Music, Chess...and other activites after school. It is fully my intention to keep my children at BMCH until 8th grade. I have no doubt that this school will continue to exceed my expectations!

Posted: April 10, 2013

My daughter has been at BMCH since she was just 2 years old. She's five now, can read, write in block and cursive letters, knows where Tanzania is, does basic math, can identify different trees/wildflowers, and takes care of the rabbits and chickens they have on campus. What my daughter learns at this school is to be a good citizen, polite, kind hearted, caring, responsible, and frankly she's become a pretty awesome kid. I attribute much of her attitude and behaviors to the school and we are grateful for it. She runs circles around our friends children who attend regular 'daycare' and or public schools. You will be hard pressed to find a campus which is even half as beautiful or expansive as BMCH. Even though they have never had a problem with security, they have added a security guard to the staff, and I'm sure every parent can agree that provides a sense of relief. My daughter loves her teacher, and learns something new every day. We keep a notebook in her school bag where her teacher sends us notes. It's simple, but I know what is going on with my daughter. We plan to stay at BMCH through 8th grade!

Posted: March 19, 2013

BMCH Rocks! As the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Specialist, I have the opportunity to work with bright, inquisitive, and exceptional students. During the school day, Lower Elementary and Junior High students transform into aeronautic, rocket, civil, satellite-design, mechanical, and electrical engineers, scientist, geologist, and environmentalist. They are fully engaged and enjoy building models using the Engineering Design Process (EDP)! Not only do I work with the students, but with the wonderful staff and administration. The staff will be attending Professional Development seminars on campus that will include "The Next Generation Science Standards" and the latest, cutting-edge STEM lessons. I had the privilege of learning first hand what a great place BMCH was last summer while working as the STEM instructor at summer camp! We had a blast constructing and flying airplanes, designing, testing and launching rockets, building edible towers, and much, much more! The students, staff, and administration at BMCH are great and I am so glad to be a part of this community! STEM Specialist

Posted: March 8, 2013

I love BMCH and my children love attending BMCH. We have been a part of the BMCH community for nearly 17 years. Both of my children started at age 3 in the primary classroom. One has graduated from BMCH and the other still attends. We have seen an experienced first hand all the school has to offer, from an excellent quality Montessori education; to loving, caring teachers and staff. Any transition can prove to be difficult and the school experienced a great transition with the passing of its founder and headmistress. However, the new administration is making notable changes not only to the physical surroundings of the school but enhancements to the curriculum, extra curricular activities, safety and security. The Montessori education fosters an out of the box way of thinking, creates a desire for learning, and develops true leadership skills. I truly believe in the Montessori Method and in Bowie Montessori Children s House.

Posted: February 22, 2013

I attended at BMSH with great trouble the teachers were cold hearted and cruel not letting you have lunch unless you completed your "work list" and would keep you from eating until you finished. it some kids got hardly anything to eat. The school was rather expensive to. I left the school and give this review from the eyes of the student

Posted: January 22, 2013

I love this school! It is a perfect match for my family. The administrator is just wonderful. She is thoughtful, supportive, innovative and has high standards for the school. In the past 3 years I've seen her strategically upgrade the campus, which I believe she's not done with. It's thrilling to see how she uses the land to expand and improve outdoor education! Additionally, she's been able to retain highly educated teachers. In today's society it's important to have qualified teachers in the classroom. When I received the schools mailer, I noticed that all the teachers have their AMI qualification plus additional educational experience. I also have gained a greater understanding of the Montessori program. It truly focuses on the "whole child". His teacher is super-fantastic! She caring, gentle and kind to all the students. I've been telling all my friends about this school two of which have enrolled their children. The adminstration and the teachers at BMCH, should receive the national recognition of excellence!!!!! When you enroll your child, you'll see what I mean.

Posted: January 22, 2013

Love, Love, Love BMCH! My daughter graduated from BMCH and is doing exceptionally well in high school. She attended BMCH from the age of 3 until she graduated from the 8th grade. BMCH graduates not only do well in high school but in life. They are confident, articulate, and fully understand their place in this world. We also have another daughter in the 4th grade and she is such a bright awesome child that is getting exactly what she needs to be successful in all areas of her life. She will also be a graduate of BMCH!

Posted: January 21, 2013

Words can not express my gratitude to the administration and staff at BMCH. They are wonderful!!! I am always greated with a smile and an "Hello Ms.____" They've made it their business to know every parent and student at the school. The administration is awesome!!!! She immediately and unselfishly provided the support my needed when it was needed, no questions asked. How many families can say that about the administrator of their kids school? Her honesty, transparency, and kindness is evident when speaking with her. Secondly, I'm not sure what I am going to do when my son has to leave his primary teacher at the end of this school year. She has been everything and more to my son. As an educator myself, I appreciate her consistancy, soft spoken demeanor, her contant encouragement of my son. Some words that best describe her are: kind, intelligent, soft spoken, supportive, loving, and available. Enrolling my son in BMCH has been one of the best decision I've made. This school should be a model of what today's schools should look like; more teaching and growing a child than testing a child to death.

Posted: January 21, 2013

Words can not fully capture my satisfaction with BMCH. My son has been attending the school since he was 3 years old. Since then I've seen constant improvement with the grounds itself, administration and the school staff. Everyone knows your name and who you kids are. Administration has taken the time personally to talk with me, show me around the new facility and ask about my families well-being. This administration is second to none. She has gone above and beyond what any parent would expect. I am eternally grateful to her and will forever sing her praises. As for my sons teacher, she has been a remarkable individual. I am not sure what I will do next year when he goes to lower elementary. From the very beginning, she has taken a personal interest in my son. Noticing the little things about his personality tells me she's watching and cares. She encourages me to look at all his best qualities and focus on them. What teacher do you know today only sees the best in your child when he's giving her a hard time? Most teachers, like myself, are stressed out with testing and grades that we forget about the child. Not at BMCH. They teach the "whole" child with precision!

Posted: January 16, 2013

I'm very pleased with Bowie Montessori Children's House. I have a boy and girl at the school each in different primary classes. They are learning so much, not just about math and science, and reading, but about being a part of a community, and intellectual curiosity, and empathy, and our connection to each other and the world. I am grateful for this wonderful option and would highly recommend that parents give it a try. The only reason why I didn't give it 5 stars is because recently the parent association has become slightly less formal than I would like.

Posted: January 2, 2013

Our son started at Bowie Montessori Children's House at the age of four and continued through the junior high program. Looking back, it was the best choice we could have ever made for him. We believe in the Montessori method and made sure that we incoroporated it outside of his classroom environment, which is a very important part as a parent. With the help of his teachers and peers, he became a very strong, independent, and confident young man who shows compassion and respect for others and his environment. He is now an honors student in high school and is still flourishing! This school provided a solid foundation for learning, as well as the love of learning that he still carries with him today. If you wonder if Montessori is for your child, visit and see for yourself. You won't be disappointed!

Posted: December 30, 2012

I have two children who have been at BMCH for three years. They are excited about learning and love coming to school. I highly recommend BMCH!

Posted: December 29, 2012

I am so excited that I found this school! As I was always told, don't believe everything you hear and ask your own questions. Well, I am glad I ventured beyond and visited BMCH when deciding what Montessori school to choose for our son. We had the privilege to talk to teachers, staff, and parents and take a tour of the beautiful campus. It was exactly the place for us. Now at 7 years old, our son is making tremendous progress academically and developing life skills that has put him way ahead of the kids of our peers attending other schools. As you decide now for the new school year where you want your child to go to school, as a parent, I not only recommend Montessori education, but I highly recommend BMCH for the school's ability to serve the WHOLE child.

Posted: December 29, 2012

A Montessori education was always going to be my first choice for my child's education and for the past 3 years at Bowie Montessori Children's House, our child gets stellar education in a culturally and ethnically diverse school population (very important for me). If you want a well-rounded child, this would be the school choice because the school believes a child's learning should be challenging for their level but lay the foundation for each new educational experience. That's what we are experiencing at Bowie Montessori Children's House. The teachers are excellent, from Pre-K up, school leadership is strong, and the environment is so conducive to learning.

Posted: December 25, 2012

When you arrive at the Bowie Montessori Childrens House you will find a beautiful 22 acre campus with mature trees, nature paths, play grounds, and well maintained school buildings. The campus has a very inviting feel to it. It is clean, safe, structured and a peaceful environment conducive to learning. The staff are professional and caring. There is a great rapport between teachers, staff, administration, and parents. Excellent teachers, great programs, and a challenging curriculum are just some of the many reasons that I would recommend the Bowie Montessori Childrens House as the best school for your child. The administration demonstrates strong leadership and attention to detail which promotes the Montessori philosophy. They are always there to answer any of your questions or address any of you concerns. It is a wonderful opportunity for your child's future.

Posted: October 26, 2012

We are committed to the Montessori philosophy. We transferred our daughter to Bowie three years ago when our daughter's former Montessori school ended at 3rd grade. She is in 6th grade now. We travel from Montgomery County to go to Bowie and are impressed with Bowie. She has a late birthday and is always one of the youngest students in her class. At Bowie, she receives one on one reading and math intervention. Her teacher is very qualified and imaginative. She has phy ed, art, and drama. Bowie just added a science lab for the upper elementary class. Bowie does optional academic and speech assessments in the fall and regular standardized testing in the spring. The upper elementary school receives SAT prep. We plan to keep our daughter at Bowie through middle school. Bowie has great after school programs including a STEM club, drama lessons, and instrumental music lessons. There are opportunities for parent involvement ie., chaperoning field trips and parent seminars. Teachers and administrators are available for parent conferences. While there was some teacher turn over in the lower grades last year, my daughter has had the same teacher for the past three years.

Posted: June 14, 2012

I wish I had read the review dated Aug. 9, 2011, and not enrolled our child in Bowie Montessori. This has been a painful year in this school for our family and we should not have experienced it. As the other reviewer wrote, "NO ONE shoud have experienced it. "To be clear, I am not talking about the pain of losing a teacher mid year. Do not accept that cover story.

Posted: March 5, 2012

This school's administration is really irresponsible in terms of fostering a good relationship with its parents, and making decisions that truly benefit its children. BMCH has an unstable staff where the teachers leave in the middle of the school year. I do not plan to return next year... my kid has suffered enough.

Posted: September 7, 2011

I had my children enrolled at the school for four years. In the earlier years the founder and headmistress, while suffering from declining health, was still able to foster the traditions and culture that originally made this school a success. When she was finally in her end stages of her condition, I am sad to say I was among the voices that thought the incoming administrative staff was a good idea. After the passing of the founder and subsequent ascension to power of the current administration, I learned of my mistake. In the very first parent association meeting, the administration informed us that parent input was not welcome at the school because it always comes with strings attached. Things rapidly declined from there. The following year, a number of highly experienced teachers were forced out, many of them nearing retirement anyway. This was supposedly because of a change in Maryland Law that requires certification by a Montessori body by 2015. With five years to go to that deadline, the administration proceeded to force out teachers because they were not AMI certified, but rather AMS, despite the fact that these same teachers had made the school in the first place.

Posted: August 8, 2011

I have seen Montesorri soar and fall through a window. This has been a painful year in this school for our family and we should not have experienced it. In fact, NO ONE shoud have experienced it. I am relieved to FINALLY get out of this school.

Posted: May 12, 2011

My 2nd grade son has been here for 1 year. It fits him and his style of learning. As a parent, I also provide him additional workbooks that are more traditional teaching so that he gets both the montesorri and public school style of learning. He has learned multiplication, division, fractions, etc. He reads a book in class and copies a page for handwriting each day which also incorporates sentence structure learning and identification. He learns poem structures. He learns about the world, countries, nature, etc. He gets play time daily, drama by older students, american history costume program, science experiments, garden growing, animals in classes, etc. Each quarter, the parents come in 15 min slots & kids demonstrate in class what they are learning so there is no mystery and you can assert for yourself what your kid is learning. They are introducing standardized testing options which I like too. Music teacher afterschool option to teach kid instruments. My experience has been good. "Some" teachers leaving (one retiring) but in my field folks leave jobs too. Looks like from their background, the new teachers are young with Masters Degrees so still tops public school crop.

Posted: March 26, 2011

A school with beautiful grounds , pleasant little class rooms & a diverse population of students that attracts more parents . How ever times have changed and the new administration even though spruced up the grounds disregarded the parents and created enough tensions to lose good , well known and experienced staff . A painful year for present parents , a lot of whom have not got what they expected in terms of education for their children. Donot let the grounds allure you; ask for why teachers have left ? why extra activities like gym , music , drama , dance , PE are not part of their program? A high end day care for children still in their initial years of schooling! If this is what you are looking for then its perfect . For some thing more first look at other programs. Finally parents are not the ones who can be heard as they are taught to be scared of higher authorities!

Posted: February 9, 2011

I really wanted to love this school. Initially, I was impressed with the beautiful campus and wonderful, kind teachers who had been the heart and soul of the school for decades. Although communication with the administration was limited, my child was learning so much in the classroom that I didn't mind. However, many of the teachers have left or are leaving, and communication with the administration has deteriorated. My child was learning so much but now doesn't want to go to school. We will not be returning next year.

Posted: January 28, 2011

BEWARE ! If you are a potential parent then don't waste your time here; if you are a present parent then get out fast .Please do not waste your money or your child's time! This school is on its down fall. With a change of administration this school is now run by an administration that totally disregards the parents or its experienced staff. The experienced and reputed teachers are leaving or have already been forced to leave. The internal school politics , the lack of an understanding administration and finally the stepping down of good staff makes you wonder if you, as a parent are really as wise as you think ! If you still feel that this is the school for your precious ones then make sure you get the right teacher and you are not paying only to make your child work in the early mornings on the road directing traffic, shoveling snow, raking leaves and much more. Because at the end of the day , it will be your little ones that will compete for high school and face the SAT.