Our story
A learning community built on observation, autonomy, and trust.
Birchwood began with one Children’s House classroom and a small group of families who believed children deserved more than worksheets and waiting lines. Fifteen years on, we serve 180 students across three campuses and the same quiet rigor still anchors every decision we make.
— Maria Howard, Head of School
Questions, answered
Frequently asked questions
What ages do you serve?+
We welcome children from 18 months through age 12, grouped in three-year mixed-age cycles.
Do you offer tours?+
Yes. Tours run on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the school year. Bring your questions.
Are your guides Montessori-trained?+
Every lead guide holds a recognized Montessori credential and continues training each year.
How do I apply?+
Start with a tour, then submit an application. We review applications on a rolling basis.
Tuition
Tuition by program, 2026–2027.
| Program | Schedule | Annual tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Toddler (18 mo – 3 yr) | Half day · 8:15–11:45 | $12,400 |
| Children's House (3–6) | Full day · 8:15–3:00 | $16,800 |
| Lower Elementary (6–9) | Full day · 8:15–3:00 | $18,200 |
| Upper Elementary (9–12) | Full day · 8:15–3:00 | $18,900 |
Need-based financial aid is available. Ask us during your tour.
School life
A day in our classrooms.
Get in touch
Request information
Tell us a little about your family and we will be in touch with next steps and tour times.
By the numbers
A community that lasts.
Students enrolled
Years in community
Credentialed guides
Family retention
Children aged 18 months to 12 years
A school where children learn how to think, not what to think.
Rooted in 100 years of Montessori practice and a thoroughly modern community of educators, families, and learners.
Book a school tour →Our programs
One continuous Montessori arc.
3–6 years
Children's House
The classic prepared environment — practical life, sensorial, language, and math in a calm, mixed-age room.
Our guides
The people who make the work possible.
Maria Howard
Head of School
Mr. Patel
Children's House Guide
Ms. Okonkwo
Lower Elementary Guide
Ms. Reyes
Upper Elementary Guide
How to apply
Four steps to enrollment.
Take a tour
Visit during a school day to see the classrooms at work and meet our guides.
Apply
Submit a short application. We review on a rolling basis through the spring.
Family visit
We meet your child and family to make sure the fit is right both ways.
Enroll
Receive your offer, reserve your spot, and join the community.
News & events
What's happening at school.
Fall Open House
Tour the classrooms, meet our guides, and bring your questions. Families welcome.
RSVP →Grandparents & Special Friends Day
A morning of work and wonder, shared with the people who love our children most.
Details →Parent Education Evening
Montessori at home: practical ways to bring the prepared environment into your house.
Learn more →Visit us
Come see the work for yourself.
In their words
“Our daughter came home different. Calmer, more curious, more willing to try something hard.”
Allison T.
Parent of a Lower El student