Absolute gem of a school. We've had 2 girls that graduated from here and their academics and socialization have exceeded our expectations. They are ahead of their peers and more importantly have developed into caring and compassionate children. Both Ms Burkhardt and Mrs Jones are exceptional teachers who really care for their students. Our girls loved going to school here and we couldn't have found a better fit for them. Casa also has a wonderful before and after care program that is super flexible and provides a safe and fun environment outside of the classroom. This school has our highest recommendation and provides so much more flexibility and care than other preschools we've visited. read more

When we started searching for a preschool for our oldest daughter over 5 years ago, I stumbled on Casa on a local blog. We went to an Open House and within 5 minuted I knew this was where our kids would go. We met Mrs. Burkhardt and Mrs. Jones and could immediately tell how much they cared about the kids. We loved that it was a family run school and that their teachers and staff had worked there for decades. We put in an application on the spot and didn't look at any other schools. Our oldest daughter loved her 3 years and Casa and her younger sister couldn't wait to get to Casa. Now their brother is anxiously awaiting his turn. Casa is truly like a family. Our kids have had Mrs. Burkhardt, Mrs. Jones and Ms. Burkhardt and each one of them is a fantastic, caring teacher. Everyone at Casa clearly cares about all of the kids. I appreciate that they have pushed our girls to try harder and tailored their work to what they are interested in. I am always amazed at some of the work that comes home. My first grader is doing some of the same math that I see my 2nd grader bring home from public school. We consider ourselves so lucky to have found Casa. My daughter gets upset when I pick her up "too early" from school so that is how I know we made the right decision. We will be sad when our time at Casa is over, but luckily that is still a few years away! read more

Our sons started off at Crossway Community, but we are so happy that we moved them to Casa de Montessori. The staff at Casa are wonderful: their #1 purpose is teaching these kids and nothing ever gets in the way of that. I love the atmosphere of the place. It's too bad they are closed in the summertime: our youngest son has been asking for months "When can I go back to my school?" and has rejected the other Montessori schools and camps we've sent him to this summer. All he wants to do is get back to Ms. Jones' classroom! I really can't say enough about Casa. Not only is it the best program our sons have attended, but it's a bargain as far as I'm concerned. read more

Prior to enrolling in this school, I disclosed that my 3-year-old son was suspected of having an undiagnosed disability due to extreme shyness in a prior classroom setting. He started a happy, confident child, but within a month and a half became distressed and anxious at Casa. His teacher, Catherine Burkhardt never held a formal meeting with our family, did not allow us to have him evaluated as requested, refused to accept advice or support from a medical professional, expelled my son via email without prior warning, and then cut off all contact. This school is a nightmare for those with disabilities! My son has since been diagnosed with a mild disability and is currently in a mainstream program elsewhere without any support and is thriving. Also, this is a small, family-owned and operated business. Jeanne Bentley is Catherine Burkhardt's aunt and the school administrator, so there is no accountability. read more

We adore Casa! Two of our three children have graduated from the kindergarten program. Our youngest child is currently enrolled in Mrs. Jones' class. We have been at Casa for the last seven years and couldn't be happier with the staff, montessori education and other families in the diverse casa community. Our children thrived at casa and had smooth transitions to our local public elementary school. We are grateful for our casa experiences and look forward to another 2 years there. Happy 50th Casa! read more

Casa had exceeded my expectations on so many levels, and I am frankly surprised to see so few reviews, so I want to speak on behalf of myself and the many parents that have shared their experiences about what a gem this school is in the Colesville area of Maryland. First, let me share how I came to find Casa. I was overwhelmed with finding daycare for my 2.5 year old, and I narrowed my search by asking other parents at a private Christian school that my two older children attended. There were several parents that specifically mentioned Casa, and these families had children entering this private school with math and reading levels way ahead of their class, which was already a strong school academically. My mom, who has several social circles, also mentioned Casa and shared their experiences - their stories were an important deciding factor, given that these who attended Casa were already grown, had children of their own, and were successful, established people in our community. It demonstrated to me that Casa is an established Montessori school that spans generations, with a long-standing experience raising children. I was honestly nervous about taking my child to a Montessori program because I grew up in a traditional school environment, but given the several recommendations, I decided to call Mrs. Jeanne directly and visit Casa de Montessori. Mrs. Jeanne gave me all the information I needed, including information on what being AMI-certified entails (which is a strict certification that not all Montessori-named schools have), the pros and cons to a Montessori program, and what expectations I should have in a Montessori program environment. We talked for over an hour, and she was responsive to my follow-up questions later on, and was willing to adapt to my family's schedule, so that we started my daughter at an off-schedule, due to circumstances going on at my home. Casa was more than accommodating, flexible, and responsive to every question/email I sent their way. Our family circumstances ended up where we had to move. However, even in the period we were there, I witnessed such tremendous growth from my daughter. She thrived in this environment having older students to learn from. Her language development exploded in even a few months. She became confident and assertive (to my dismay sometimes, because she can stand her own even against me). Casa also provided so many fun, stimulating activities, so my daughter would come home with a mini-garden she planted, stories about "baby chick" eggs that hatched in the class, artwork, new languages/stories about cultures from around the world, and books she wanted me to read when we were home. There are so many little things that Casa de Montesorri did that gave me the assurance and confidence that they know, love and care for children, and I wish I could highlight all the little things that made me love the school. Each morning, I would be greeted by the staff and hear a new story or update about my daughter from Ms. Catherine (her teacher). Also, Casa hosts evening dinners, and invites families who have already left, to encourage us to meet, talk and get to hear about other parents' experiences of their children in their Montessori program. Casa often calls, emails and writes notes home to stay in close communication with me. The teachers even fixed my child's hair (it was a mess, but I was rushing to work), on picture day, which I was pleasantly surprised to see when the pictures came out -- they did it just because they do what they do. One important point I must note after reading a recent review: Casa is a Montessori school, and with that, parents must consider the learning and developmental needs of their own individual child. Casa hosts dinners that enables parents to share their experiences with other parents. At one of these events, one parent shared with me that she had two different children - where one had a learning disability, and the other without one. She found that her child with a learning disability required a special program that was less stimulating and structured to focus her child on an individual task, while her other child thrived at Casa and developed an intrinsic love for learning. When deciding whether to enter in any Montessori program, you must consider that Montessori education was founded on the belief that children are naturally curious, innately driven, and therefore, the learning environment is designed for exploration and spurring curiosity. Someone with ADHD, for instance, could become overwhelmed in such an environment. In the case of my daughter, I found such an environment to be absolutely fulfilling and the fuel to her love for learning for years to come. In summary, I found that Casa de Montessori's teachers are so passionate and experienced at what they do. If you're not sure, give them a call and schedule a visit! I hope you find what an extraordinary program this is, as I have. read more

We have seen such an enhancement in our son's social and learning skills after spending 2 years in the Casa de Montessori pre-school! Our son was three years old when we decided to finally enroll him in a half-day daycare. Being shy, he was not around many children and did not want to socialize with other children. He was most comfortable observing and watching others, rather than being involved in children's activities. We tried a daycare close to us and enrolled him half-day a few days a week, which resulted in a very negative experience for our son (we ended up withdrawing him after less than two weeks). We then searched for other programs and came across Casa de Montessori. They were gracious, welcoming, and even though they were having some renovations in Casa, they suggested that we bring our son to Casa during the summer break so that he could get comfortable with the classroom environment. Having our son get a chance to know what his classroom was like, made him feel excited and comfortable. I had great conversations with teachers and staff, got a chance to meet and talk to Mrs. Burkhardt -the owner and directress of Casa who to our sadness passed away in 2018). While we were there, it was so heartwarming to see my son was happily engaged in a game with Mrs. Burkhardt as she was showing him how to do one of the educational toys/items in the class. I even asked my son if it's ok to I leave him there and go to talk to others, and for the first time, to my surprise- he said yeah that's ok! (and that was the child who before that day did not want me to leave him for a minute in other schools!). After six months, the same child that we were worried about his social skills, entirely changed to a happy and engaging boy who loved his school and looking forward to going to Casa every day and play with his friends! He has been in Casa for two years now and we've enrolled him in the kindergarten class, due to his positive experience. His teacher, Ms. Catherine Burkhardt has been great and honestly we can't say enough positive things about her and her assistances. Even though our son was very shy and preferred to observe the lessons, she never pushed or forced him to do learn something he wasn't ready to learn, and afforded him the opportunity to learn at his own speed. In fact she always told us that we should not worry much and all we should do is just give our some time and he will learn to engage on his own time and pace. Ms. Burkhardt has always been available to us whenever we had questions or had any concerns. Our son enjoys being in her class and learning from her, and he often recounts his experience in learning a new lesson with us. Casa de Montessori offers quality learning programs at an affordable price. We're very pleased to see our son thrive in Casa's learning environment. His social skills have improved and we've seen our son grow from being very shy, to an assertive young boy, proud of his learning accomplishments and friends that he has made in Casa (our son is fond of saying "I love Casa"). He actually now says he doesn't like weekends because he cannot go to casa on the weekends!! We really believe that we are so lucky that we found Casa and our son's happy face anytime goes to Casa says it all! :) read more

My son started at Casa when he was 3. We stayed for 4 years! He has a late birthday so it was our intention to have him complete 1 year of kindergarten at Casa and 1 year at his neighborhood school. (If we felt he needed that extra year) Well, we ended up keeping him at Casa for 2 years of kindergarten. Clearly, we were more than pleased with the experience he had there. The teachers are outstanding. Very nurturing yet encouraging independence as well. My son not only learned everything he needed to know before starting first grade he also learned everyday life skills and creative thinking. I loved the "field trips" to other countries and states. My son loved them too. They would immerse them in the native culture of the place they were visiting. Exposing them to different music, art, food, language, literature and way of life. At the end of our time at Casa my son was able to bring home his "passport" and now he can glance through it and still tell me about all the different places he's been. I have asked Mrs. Burkhardt if there were ever any plans to expand to other grades. Unfortunately not now. But you can be certain that if elementary grades were offered, my child would be enrolled. I can not say enough nice things about this school. We all miss it and the staff very much. If you are considering a Montessori education for your child I can not think of a better place. You must go for a class visit and see for yourself. read more

My oldest son went to Casa, and now his brother goes there too. Next school year (Sept 2013-June 2014) will be his third year there. I can't say enough wonderful things about the school. Mrs. Burkhardt is his teacher (there is another principle teacher named Mrs. Jones) and she is fantastic! She has been in the classoom at Casa for years, as has Mrs. Jones. That kind of experience is just what I value---you figure they've seen all kinds of kids and they have the experience to figure out what each child needs to grow. When I go in for our parent-teacher conference each year I always feel such confidence that the Mrs. Burkhardt knows my son through and through---what he loves to do, and what he might need to keep developing more. The classroom is an oasis---visit and you will see what I mean. All is orderly, but not in a restricting way--just a peaceful, balanced way. The atmosphere of calm, concentration, and engagement is palpable. The kids are engaged, lively, but focused, and the teachers are the same. My oldest son who went to Casa for 2.5 years is doing so well in pubic school. I think it is attributable to his experience at Casa. His grasp of numbers, for instance, is completely related to his very concrete experience with beadwork at Casa and its Montessori approach--you are taught numbers with things not symbols on a piece of paper. As a two working parent household, I also value the fact that the school has before and after care, a full day option of instruction of 4-5 year olds who aren't in Kindergarten, and a Kindergarten class too. The fact that the one classroom has an age range from 2s-6s is wonderful---the kids learn from each other and the older ones get to teach the younger ones. I recommend you visit the school and see for yourself. It really is a gem. read more

We feel so lucky to have found this school! The teachers and caregivers at Casa have high expectations and the children are given the opportunity to really fulfill their potential. My son surprises me everyday by exhibiting the knowledge and skills he has learned at Casa. He is very curious and loves learning, and I am thankful for the guidance of his teacher Mrs. Jones' practical instruction in the montessori classroom. My son is finishing his first year of preschool with more confidence in himself, a love for independent discovery, an understanding of his role in the world, and developing concentration and self-sufficiency. He gets plenty of outdoor playtime which has helped him with cooperative learning skills. We also make use of the before and after-care program which is lead by Señora Lupé, who is very caring, but firm. We love the flexibility of before/after-care and not having to commit to a set schedule (there is a sliding rate based on frequency of use). I only wish that it was a year round school program! If you're considering this school for your family, take the opportunity to observe the classroom yourself, and you will see in action why Casa is so wonderful. read more

I cannot say enough about Casa, this is one of the best kept secrets in Montgomery County. The funny part is it was just a few minutes away from my home. My wife and I have been looking for montessori schools all over the DMV area. I am so glad I came across Casa by chance. The staff and supporting team is unbelievably great. My little one is thriving and talks about Ms. Jones, Ms. Nelson, Ms. Lupe everyday. If you get the chance to enroll your bundle of joy do not hesitate. read more

WONDERFUL experience! Both of my children have attended Casa and we couldn't be happier. The exceptional staff works tirelessly to provide a warm and caring environment that supports each child's growth as an individual while promoting independence and a sense of community. My children have very different personalities- the eldest being very social and the younger being more reserved- but both have thrived academically and socially at Casa. This past year we moved to Howard county, but after touring many other school options that would be more convenient, we never found an option that even came close. We are happy to drive a little further to allow them to continue at Casa. read more

We absolutely LOVE Casa. We have been a part of the school community for the last 7 years. My son graduated and my daughter is a current student. The quality of instruction is fabulous. My children are performing above grade level in math and reading thanks to Mrs. Jones. While this pleases us, we are even more impressed by (and grateful for) how much our children love learning and being at school. Our kids are safe, engaged, valued, respected, and loved. We couldn't ask for more. read more

I can't say enough good things about the Montessori philosophy, and Casa is a wonderful small school with a relaxed, family feel. My sons' teacher is the school's founder, and the boys love her. They've been talking all summer about going back to school--they really miss the classroom work. We decided to keep our older son there this year for his Kindergarten year, and our younger son loves being in his brother's class--the multi-age classrooms are a nice perk (and philosophically preferable, according to research). Casa is also quite affordable compared to other area Montessoris (and they offer before- and after-care). read more

My daughter (age 4) attended Casa for the first time last school semester from a recommendation from a friend (their 2 children both attended Casa). It was the best decision I made. She absolutely loves it. I was worried at first because she was so shy but now she can't wait to go back to see all of her classmates. The staff is wonderful and truly enjoy what they do. read more

My daughter attended Casa for 3 years. We coudn't have been happier. Mrs. Burkheardt is a wonderful teacher who understood my child and got her excited about learning. Mrs. Jones is creative and engaging. We loved that the teachers have been there for years, the classrooms are filled with items that made me want to sit down and learn. My favorite was the class trips to other countries. The kids get "passports" and fly down the halls to their destination. While spending the week at their destination they eat traditional foods, speak with people from that country or state, and learn about the culture. We wish we had known about Casa with our other two kids. We LOVE Casa and the staff. It is an amazing place. We miss it and the staff. read more

We chose Casa because the small, safe environment was exactly right for both of our boys. Our oldest son, who needed the chance to observe and hang back quietly, and our youngest, who enthusiastically rushes loudly into learning both have a place where their natural psychological development is respected. We are grateful for the reasonable tuition prices and the before and after care, but mostly for the knowledge that the people that are coming in contact with our children know them and care about them for who they are. read more

Casa de Montessori School is a hidden treasure! Literally, it is hidden in the back wing of the old Colesville Elementary School, but it is a treasure because of the amazing ability the wonderful teachers have of uncovering the hidden potential in every child. Our children have thrived while at Casa and after moving onto traditional education. While at Casa, they not only built a solid academic foundation but had a blast learning and being creative in the engaging environment. What impresses me most about the staff is their dedication and care for each and every child. I am so glad we found Casa! read more

If you are looking for a good school for your young one, definitely check out Casa de Montessori school. The teachers are exceptional. People say that a child's first experience with schooling makes a profound difference in their lives in the way they approach school and learning in general. I believe that the way my son does his chores at home, the way he likes school, the way he interacts with people who look and sound different from him, and the way he loves to go to the library to get books is due in some part to the wonderful experience he had at Casa. The atmosphere is welcoming and open. I visited another school and parents weren't allowed to observe a class. It is not that way at Casa. If you can, keep your child there through kindergarten- it was one of our best decisions. read more

We've had both our children attend Casa de Montessori, so we've been there now for seven years. It's been one of the touchstones of their lives -- both my kids have flourished there, and the attention to their individual personalities, interests, and abilities has been wonderful. The teachers find ways to let each child develop at their own speed, but also find ways to engage and challenge them to stretch and discover through the love of learning. It's a very multicultural class, and they have always found ways to bring different cultures into the curriculum -- engaging with students' families to share their heritage and traditions. The long-term staff have years of experience and it all boils down to a very family, relaxed atmosphere. It feels like the world has stopped there, and the old-fashioned wonder of childhood is still cherished. All the little stations and projects the kids work on are so cute -- nothing is plasticy, modern and flashy and that is just the way I like it. I highly recommend this place! read more