About Jamon Montessori Day School

At Jamon Montessori Day School (JMDS), we believe every child deserves a joyful, nurturing environment where curiosity is encouraged, independence is cultivated and a lifelong love of learning begins.

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Founded in 1995 by Lisa Pena, M.Ed., Head of School, JMDS has proudly served children and families throughout the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area for more than 30 years. Since relocating to the Colesville community of Silver Spring, Maryland in 1996, our school has become known for its warm, family-centered atmosphere and commitment to authentic Montessori education.

Our mission is to provide a high-quality Montessori education for children ages 2 through 6+, inspiring each child to develop socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually at their own unique pace. We honor every child's individual abilities while fostering confidence, independence, compassion and a genuine enthusiasm for learning.

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At JMDS, we are committed to maintaining a safe, peaceful and caring environment where children feel valued, respected and empowered to thrive. We believe that a child's greatest success comes through a strong partnership between the school and home, creating a supportive community that nurtures the whole child.

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As a school with an international perspective, we celebrate the rich diversity of our community while helping children appreciate both the unique differences and shared connections among people around the world. Through meaningful cultural experiences, students develop respect, empathy and global awareness from an early age.

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Our authentic Montessori curriculum includes:

• Practical Life

• Sensorial Education

• Language

• Mathematics

• Science

• Cultural Studies & Geography

• Art Expression

• Music

• Outdoor Learning

• In-School Field Trips and Hands-on Experiences

 

Students also enjoy enriching programs including S.T.E.M., Spanish, Art, Percussion and Sports, providing opportunities to discover new interests while developing creativity, confidence and teamwork.

More than a school, JMDS is a community. Our students, dedicated educators and supportive families work together to create an environment where children are loved, challenged, encouraged and inspired to become compassionate, confident and capable lifelong learners.

 

Our Program

At Jamon Montessori Day School, our goal is to provide a nurturing, engaging and academically challenging environment that inspires children to become happy, confident, independent and successful lifelong learners.

At JMDS, we believe that our school community is a family. The Jamon Family is made up of our students, parents and dedicated staff, all working together to support each child's growth and development. As an international school, we celebrate the rich diversity of our community by exploring and honoring cultures from around the world, helping children develop respect, empathy and a global perspective.

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Primary studens are immersed in Spanish class, taught by native Spanish-speaking educators who bring both the language and the vibrant cultures of their home countries into the classroom, creating an authentic and engaging learning experience.

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In today's fast-paced, technology-driven world, JMDS provides children with a thoughtfully prepared environment where meaningful, hands-on learning takes precedence. We believe that true success comes not from simply finding the right answer, but from understanding the learning process, developing critical thinking skills and building confidence through discovery.

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Using authentic Montessori materials, children engage in purposeful activities that foster independence, concentration, creativity and problem-solving. These hands-on experiences provide a strong academic foundation while nurturing each child's natural curiosity and life-long love of learning.