Butler School

Posted: July 8, 2025

My eldest child started at this school when she turned 2 years old in the Young Children's Community. She recently entered the Lower Elementary after completing Primary. My youngest child has attended this school since 6 months of age (in the Nido) and is now in the Primary classroom. The teachers and administration at this school are very attuned to the needs of each child and work to develop the whole child. Teachers provide regular formal conferences and in my experience have always been welcoming of informal conference requests. I love how much time all the children spend outside each day, the mixed age classrooms, and that each classroom fosters development of intrinsic motivation within each individual child. Each classroom is rich with learning materials and designed to be used independently by the children. The school also fosters a sense of community with families, offering informal gatherings and formal events for families throughout the year.

Posted: July 8, 2025

Posted: July 8, 2025

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Posted: July 3, 2025

Our child has been at Butler for Primary and Lower Elementary years, and we could not imagine a better place to send her. The faculty and staff know every child and family on an individual level, and they focus on the whole well-being of the child. Students are taught a strong curriculum that reinforces concepts across subjects based on their individual level of mastery. The campus is absolutely beautiful, and the daily outdoor experience only supports the child’s whole development. We are so lucky to have Butler in our community!

Posted: July 3, 2025

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Posted: June 5, 2025

Not all pre-school teachers are good. One of them is not skilled to be a Montessori teacher. I had multiple kids in the school and the one in her class was way behind pre-k standard and she was not the only one. At least 5 other kids in her class were not ready to start kindergarten and first grade. The school brushed it under the carpet and said the child needs more help and has learning difficulties. The same child is doing well now outside of butler. They do not keep lesson plan records of what your child is learning and will never ever share with you. They take the money but not accountability of your child's performance. I regret sending my child here and you will too if you end up with that teacher. Their lower and upper elementary has issues too. Your child will not bring back any report card and the school doesn’t share county scores too. I wonder why? What is the reason for secret when public school and county send COGAT and MAP scores? People who was accountability and awareness of their child's performance pull out from elementary school. The trend here is become a teacher at the school and send you child to be a student. The school is actively selling their high school but when the base is weak how will your child succeed?

My other child was continously bulled for one whole year which damaged his confidence. Despite repeated complaints the teacher and school did not do anything.

Cherry on top the new principal is rude and doesn’t keep promises. Be very mindful if you are choosing to send your child here.

Posted: June 5, 2025

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Posted: April 16, 2023

Butler Montessori creates an environment that encourages my child's academic, social, and ethical development. The teachers balance high expectations with deep respect for each student's interests and strengths. My child has learned to set high (but realistic) personal standards and has received the support needed to reach those standards. My child is eager to go to school every day to engage in motivating and challenging work and to enjoy time with classmates.

The classrooms are warm and inviting. This includes both the physical and social environment. My child has learned to appreciate the qualities of the diverse cohort of students, and has been appreciated in turn.

The school takes full advantage of its beautiful campus. Students have ample structured and unstructured time to explore the woods, fields, and creek. They have the opportunity to learn about the horses in the school's extracurricular equestrian program. Middle school students plant and tend gardens to provide produce for their weekly farmer's market.

As a long-time public school teacher, I had never anticipated my child attending an independent school. However, a couple of years of uneven experiences left me frustrated. I wanted to see my child growing academically, socially, and ethically. Instead work was often treated as "good enough" without any clear guidance for improvement. Poor decisions were not used as learning experiences. Insufficient effort was made to develop classrooms of mutually supportive leaners. The primary cause of these problems was staffing. Some teachers were inexperienced and / or ineffective. In any given year, my child might have an amazing teacher, but the next year might be a complete turn around.

Butler Montessori expends great effort to locate and develop teachers who can faithfully execute the school's vision. The teachers are responsive to students and parents and work collaboratively to ensure the success of each student.

Posted: April 16, 2023

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Posted: March 30, 2022

My son has been attending Butler since he was 3 yrs old in the primary. He is now 12 and in the Intermediate program and is loving every minute of it. Butler has been his second home and has enabled his intellect to thrive, has instilled a love of the outdoors and given him maturity and confidence to succeed in whatever he does. Highly recommended to any who are interested in a K-9 Montessori education in Montgomery County

Posted: March 30, 2022

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Posted: February 6, 2019

Posted: February 6, 2019

Posted: February 6, 2019

Posted: February 6, 2019

Posted: February 6, 2019

Posted: February 6, 2019

We have been at Butler for 5 years and have experienced both the Upper Elementary and Intermediate classes. Joining the Butler Community was the best decision we made for our son and his education - we have been extremely pleased with the curriculum, administration, community, and opportunities afforded to him over the years.


Love of nature, love of learning, pride and respect for community, responsibility, and contribution to society – all of these beliefs have been instilled and fostered during his time at Butler and we are so grateful for the respect, encouragement, and motivation that his teachers have given to him.

We asked our son: when you reflect on your experience at Butler, how has it impacted your life so far?

His response: Butler has impacted my life in many ways. For one, it’s given me a much greater appreciation for nature and the outdoors. I am so grateful for the time that we get to spend outside – working, hiking, and playing - and can’t imagine having to spend all day sitting at a desk in a traditional classroom.

Butler has given me a stronger sense of leadership that has helped boost my confidence and self-esteem through participation in the plays and team building activities.

It’s encouraged me to write and actually enjoy writing – the style of writing in the Intermediates is very creatively focused and we are allowed to write imaginative stories and poems instead of just book reports and reference papers.

The school environment encourages you to experience new things without being scared of the unknown or the new. It’s also a very friendly atmosphere – you can express yourself as you are without judgment. There is a strong sense of inclusion throughout the community which has encouraged me to grow and evolve into a more confident person. Our involvement in the Model UN program afforded me the chance to work and exchange ideas at a global level. The Peace Study to California and the Immigration Study to New York were opportunities that few middle school students experience – I am grateful for every moment spent on those trips as they helped shape me into a better student, a better friend, and a better citizen.

I believe it has thoroughly prepared me for the rigors of high school – and served a pivotal role in my acceptance into a magnet program.

Posted: February 6, 2019

Posted: February 3, 2019

Well, there is no homework in Primary and Elementary because, unlike regular school where a teacher gives lecture, while students taking notes with no time to practice, Montessori lesson is given individually based on the student’s interest and his/her pace and the students get plenty of time to practice on his/her own after the lesson at school.

Posted: February 3, 2019

Of course there are great teachers and so-so teachers at any school, but so far our son’s been lucky to have two great teachers.

Posted: February 3, 2019

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Posted: February 3, 2019

Our son has been in this school since he was 3 and we’ve been very happy we chose this school. Our son had a difficulty adjusting to this new routine of being away from home and going to school. It was tough time for all of us, but the school was patient with him and gave us some flexibility with the schedule as well.
The school and Montessori education have been working wonderfully for our son, but I do see that, depending on the kid, it may not work of him/her.... some kids will thrive in this self-directed, independent work style but some will be lost in lack of firm structure without adult motivating them all the time.
I also need to point out that if the parents’s view of “education” is based on so-called “academic achievement” of getting high score on the tests, etc., this school is not it. Parents really need to at least try to understand what is to learn in the Montessori system (the Whole Child Development methods, aiming to prepare child for life by instilling self-confidence and creativity). So if your definition of “great school” is about getting good grades or scoring high on tests, then move on to some other school.

Posted: December 15, 2018

At all levels there are grace and courtesy lessons and the children learn from an early age how to treat one another and themselves with compassion. In the elementary programs they have wonderful conflict resolution pieces which are amazing to watch. The children learn how to express what is bothering them or hurtful and also how to hear and support their fellow classmates. It gives them the skills they will need in this world as there will always be other people you have to work with and always be conflict and difference of opinions.

Posted: December 15, 2018

Great! We are happy with the school and plan to stay here through 8th grade. I can't imagine another school that would love and support my children and help them become independent and confident young adults.

Posted: December 15, 2018

No homework in preschool and elementary programs. This means quality family time at home and no arguing. Kids can play when they get home and families can eat together in peace! Children learn lessons at school and remain engage and active learners because there isn't the pressure or disinterest that happens when you force homework or standardized testing on children. My kids love school and enjoy going every day - thank goodness!

Posted: December 15, 2018

The teachers really care about our children. They are passionate about meeting the child where they are and helping them develop passions and really enjoy the discovery process. To us this is incredibly important as we want our kids to be lifelong learners, to know themselves and get excited about exploring new thing.

Posted: December 15, 2018

For us one of the main reasons we love this school and will keep our kids here through 8th grade is that when our children graduate they will know themselves, their passions and be independent, reslilient, compassionate young adults. Yes, they will be academically on par or ahead in studies, but far more important to us is the character. They are kind, socially aware individuals. And although the external world is bound to get more chaotic and crazy, they will have this strong foundation and be confident in themselves and their abilities. They will grow into happy, well-adjusted adults - the ultimate goal for us as parents.

Posted: December 15, 2018

The Head of School and admin team are responsive and know our children. They have supported us every step of the way. I love that the Head visits classrooms and gives our children lessons. She truly knows our children, how they are progressing through the curriculum, and what their interests and passions are. We know the kids are in good hands and in a loving, nurturing environment because the Head of School sets the tone for any school. There is also very little staff and faculty turnover - this is key in any school because it shows how much people care about the school, the curriculum and the community. It's a sign of a healthy school and healthy leadership. So, we are happy!

Posted: December 15, 2018

Our son has some challenges he's working through that make it difficult for him to write and read. However, the teacher is working with him at his level and supporting him in a way that builds his confidence. I'm grateful that he has this individualized path that allows him to move forward in areas where he excels (for him that's math!) yet still confidently explore areas where he needs help (writing, reading). All this while building his confidence so he still loves the process of learning and school - makes me feel like this is the best environment for my child.

Posted: April 6, 2018

Although we are not yet in Lower Elementary, I'm aware of the no homework policy and it is one of the many reasons we will keep our children at Butler Montessori. They kids learn so much during their time at school, it's nice to come home and have family time after school instead of arguments over homework. I want my kids to love learning and this school provides amazing educational opportunities both inside the classroom and beyond.

Posted: April 6, 2018

My children have attended the school for almost four years. I've been very impressed with the teachers at the Young Children's Community (age 18 months-3 ) and Primary (age 3-6) levels. I visited classrooms and saw the teachers in action - giving lessons, creating outdoor education opportunities, and supporting children when they are having a tough day. They care about each child and it shows. When I drop off my children every day, I know they are in good hands. While my children are not yet in Elementary or Intermediate, I arranged to observe these classrooms and witnessed the same great teaching style in those areas as well. I'm glad I picked Butler Montessori and plan - based on what I've experienced - to keep my children there through the Intermediate program.

Posted: April 6, 2018

Our children learn from an early age to be kind, considerate, and basically really good people because of what is modeled in the classroom. It's amazing to watch. I've observed in both the Primary (age 3-6) and Lower Elementary (age 6-9) classrooms and seen how the children interact with each other and adults. I highly recommend people observe the classrooms, especially if you are interested in the school.

Posted: April 6, 2018

I've worked in Metro DC Independent schools for more than a decade and my children have attended a couple of preschools in the area. During this time, I've witnessed many ineffective administrations and high turnover rates of staff. Butler Montessori has one of the strongest leadership teams in place. The Head of School is passionate and incredibly knowledgable about every aspect of Montessori. She knows every child and actively supports their educational journey. Everyone from the front desk to the classrooms loves the school and the children (and wants to be there) and it shows. I'm amazed at the dedication to the school and the leadership. I highly recommend this administration as it is hands down the best one I've seen in the surrounding metro-DC area.

Posted: April 6, 2018

We haven't encountered this yet. I will say, as someone who has worked at many schools in the area, it is difficult for any independent school that is not specifically geared toward learning differences to accommodate every child's needs. I believe Butler Montessori tries to support learning differences to the best of their abilities but, like any school, there is a point at which the student might be better served at a school with a specific program or dedicated staff support for those learning differences.

Posted: April 6, 2018

We have not experienced bullying at the school. We have seen, however, how the teachers and students work together to be inclusive of others and learn to be compassionate, caring people. These lessons are modeled and taught at every developmental level.

Posted: April 6, 2018

I highly recommend Butler Montessori. If you are thinking about the school, I suggest touring the school and observing in all the classrooms (YCC, Primary, Elementary and Intermediate). We signed our contract the minute we toured the Intermediate program as that, to us, demonstrated the longterm benefits of a Montessori education. The Intermediates have their own Farm program including a CSA and do all sorts of interesting things like building projects that teach life skills but also incorporate math, science, etc. It's amazing to talk to the students and hear about their experiences. Observing in the Primary and Lower Elementary classrooms gives you a sense of how the classrooms operate like little communities with each child seeking out classroom materials and receiving individual and small group lessons. I'm happy about our decision to attend Butler Montessori and hope to be here for a long time.

Posted: March 26, 2018

The school grounds are beautiful with the nature walks, equestrian program, pool (which is mostly for the summer program), and gardening which makes an enjoyable and a unique learning experience for the children. The Montessori approach is quite interesting and effective for the right child. As I said before, a child with special needs will basically drowned in this environment . I feel they invest more in the children that will strive and the other go to the wayside. They ask for a lot of donations on top of the expensive tuition. Some of the teachers have been amazing but they can only do so much. A Montessori class room can have up to 30 kids per 1 teachers and 1 assistant which is crazy in my opinion. I know 100% my child is academically behind because they just don't have the resources to accommodate. If you do not fit in the cookie cutter category I would send your child elsewhere.

Posted: March 26, 2018

In primary and lower elementary they do not have homework. I agree with this approach because homework for young children is unnecessary. They work enough during school. Leave eveneing hours to spend time with family. Sunmer work, I would encourage.

Posted: March 26, 2018

Overall I think the teachers are effective but if you break down in all areas they do lack.

Posted: March 26, 2018

I feel that they do encourage strong character integrity compassion and respect.

Posted: March 26, 2018

In my experience the leadership of this school was almost non-existent with my child.

Posted: March 26, 2018

There are no inside resources such as a school counselor or individualized learning plans. For a child that has special needs this is not the school for them. They suggest outside resources which can be thousands of dollars on top of tuition which is expensive.

Posted: March 26, 2018

I feel there is not much bullying in the school

Posted: February 8, 2018

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Posted: February 8, 2018

Academics are well below public school standards. My children attended Butler for years (starting in primary) and we are still playing catch up in public school. The campus is beautiful but that's about it. Bullying is a BIG problem. The head of school seems to care more about her business and legacy than the well being of children. Please seek out parents that have left the school and ask questions before you enroll. Ask to see test scores (which are nonexistent for a reason). If the school sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

Posted: October 3, 2017

Wonderful community, the best place for children to at and learn in a great country setting. I honestly cannot image a better school for my kids. We love how happy they are to go every day. Teachers are amazing, the principal is fantastic, she is a true Montessori-expert.

Posted: October 3, 2017

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Posted: May 22, 2016

Posted: May 22, 2016

Posted: May 22, 2016

Posted: May 22, 2016

Excellent school administration, teachers and staff who are focused on fostering my children's love of learning, self-reliance, creativity, critical thinking and care for the environment on a spectacular campus. My children especially love the outdoor learning and playing, whether it's hiking or studying nature in the woods, gardening, visiting the chickens or horses, running around the playground, or sled riding in the winter. My children are receiving an amazing education for life.

Posted: May 20, 2016

This school has tremendous leadership and vision for the future. My children have been at Butler for many years and go happily into school every morning. The amazing campus and beautiful setting ensures they are in touch with nature every day, and spend recess running, making dens and exploring. They have mostly loved every minute of their time at Butler.

Posted: May 20, 2016

We love the teachers at Butler. Our son has had teachers who got to know and understand him, respected his unique abilities, encouraged and challenged him to achieve more than he thought he could, and on whom he could rely for advice and guidance.

Posted: May 20, 2016

I truly appreciate that my son had very little homework until he reached the Intermediate grades: no silly busy-work that provides no value; no time-wasting; work that was assigned created real value for my son; we had more time to be together and for him to try different activities such as fencing and piano.

Posted: May 20, 2016

The social development of the students is a strong focus, and they are supported in the development of their own values.

Posted: May 20, 2016

My son spent six years at Butler. We are so grateful to have found such a wonderful school - a beautiful environment, caring teachers, a fabulous music and drama program, a fabulous outdoor / environmental program, and the Montessori approach, which has proven to be terrific for our son.

Posted: May 16, 2016

My daughter has been at Butler Montessori for four years. In this time she has been nurtured and cared for by her teachers and the rest of the staff. The school believes in "following the child" and so she is always challenged academically at the level she needs, and is allowed to explore and create in a safe, interesting and beautiful space.

Posted: May 10, 2016

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Posted: May 10, 2016

Butler has provided a great environment for my 3 children to learn and grow within. They have flourished both socially and academically at the school

Posted: April 24, 2016

Butler Montessori is a wonderful option for those who want an exceptional experience for their child. Academically, my child scored very high on the Terra Nova tests but, most importantly, loves to learn!

Posted: March 16, 2016

While it has a beautiful campus, my delight with this school stops here. The education is below average, paid tutoring is a regular occurrence here and many of the teachers are sub-par. The principle has no ability to manage conflict and it appears she does not regularly evaluate her teachers performance honestly. I wish the Board Members would step up and get real input as to how the parent community feels. I think they would be shocked.

Posted: March 5, 2014

Our son started at Butler Montessori this past September (at 4 1/2yrs old) for half day primary. We have enjoyed watching him grow and become very independent and confident. We feel like the Montessori approach really suits him. The staff and teachers there are wonderful and I credit them with how quickly he is learning things. They truly are supportive of the whole child and the family, which was evident during some recent stressful family health issues. Their support of our son and our family really helped him continue to thrive during this time. We are looking forward to him continuing on to full day primary next year.

Posted: September 21, 2013

We are having a great experience at Butler. The flexible approach of Montessori works very well for our son, who can learn at his own pace, which in some subjects is very advanced and other on par. We have found the teachers to be very responsive, and always willing to take a lot of time to talk with us and formulate the best plan for our son's success. He loves going to school and always comes home happy. He also knows that if there is any problem, it will be addressed so he feels secure. The school addresses the whole child, including social skills. Also, the parent community is warm and welcoming. Finally, the environment is beautiful, which is important to our son who loves the natural world. This is our son's fourth year here and we will be going through Middle School at Butler.

Posted: July 19, 2013

We are very glad we found Butler! This is the best school in the area

Posted: February 16, 2013

Butler School is an AMAZING place for yur child. They have a phenomonal staff and a wonderful group of children here. The classes are small and the the children are taught how to work together and how to solve difficult situations amoungst themselves. My daughter and I movd down here from Massachusetts and she has truly blossomed since starting at Butler. She has learned better ways to study, she has become more social, she has grown more confident in her abilities and how she goes about solving problems and conflicts. Before going to Butler she struggled socially, and while very smart, she used to get very frustrated if she actually had to work at what she had for homework. Now she has learned the best way for her to learn, and how to ask for help and how to work through difficult problems without getting upset. There are many different activities that the children can do at the school. There are horses on site that are used to teach the children confidence and a different way to incorporate physical education. Its such a wonderful school, and I truly recommend it to any one!

Posted: February 12, 2013

Butler school provides a very intelligent environment that is based on balance. Nothing is overemphasized or neglected (including physical health and closeness to nature). Both our boys are striving in it, intellectually, physically and psychologically - and happy children make for happy parents. Our children are on the path to be able to navigate very comfortably in our increasingly global and complex world.

Posted: February 9, 2013

We love Butler - the exceptional community, campus, and teachers. Our two daughters are lifelong Montessorians and we plan to continue as long as we can!

Posted: January 20, 2012

I have very high regard for the teachers and staff of Butler School. My family has been a part of the Butler School community for the past 10 years. The students are happy because they experience the joy of learning. There are priceless intangibles that become part of each student's character. My 8th grade son is prepared for public high school academically, socially, and emotionally. I am so thankful that my son has developed the skills needed to meet the demands of a rigorous, enriching Intermediates curriculum.

Posted: November 24, 2011

Great school and nurturing environment for a child to grow. we have two kids here and it is wonderful to see them blossom there. It's definitely worth every penny.

Posted: January 9, 2011

Butler School offers a premier education for the development of the whole child. My children have been there for 10 years since they were 3 years. The Montessori education at Butler School has helped them develop the tools they need for living in today's world: critical, creative, and independent thinking; a sense of self and how they fit in their community; and respect for themselves, their peers, and the adults in their world. Butler School is, indeed, a Great School.