Santa Monica Montessori School
Santa Monica Montessori School is a private Montessori school rooted in the philosophy of freeing each child’s potential within a carefully prepared, stimulating environment. Serving families in Santa Monica and throughout Los Angeles, our school remains deeply committed to authentic Montessori principles while evolving to meet the needs of today’s children.
As one of the earliest Montessori schools in the United States, we are proud of our rich heritage and our dedication to staying true to the Montessori method.
Montessori School Los Angeles Families Have Trusted for Generations
Families seeking a Montessori school in Los Angeles choose Santa Monica Montessori School for its long-standing reputation, academic integrity, and nurturing community.
Our thoughtfully prepared environments and experienced educators allow children to develop self-confidence, independence, and self-discipline!
Montessori Teaching Activities That Support the Whole Child
Our classrooms are guided by hands-on Montessori teaching activities designed to meet children at their developmental stage. Learning is active, purposeful, and deeply engaging.
A foundational element of our curriculum is practical life Montessori, where children participate in meaningful, real-world tasks that build concentration, coordination, and confidence. These Montessori practical life activities include food preparation, care of the environment, organization, and collaborative work.
Traditional vs Montessori Education: A Meaningful Difference
When comparing traditional vs Montessori education, many parents notice the difference immediately. Montessori classrooms are child-centered rather than teacher-led, allowing students to learn at their own pace instead of following a rigid curriculum.
At Santa Monica Montessori School, students are guided in the creation of educational projects that foster leadership, character development, and intrinsic motivation—key skills for long-term success.
Montessori Age Groups & Flexible Learning Pathways
We offer a customized, flexible education that supports children through multiple developmental stages. Our Montessori age groups encourage peer learning, leadership, and collaboration while honoring each child’s individual growth timeline.
Montessori Homeschool Philosophy & Family Partnership
Many families interested in Montessori homeschool principles are drawn to our school because of our strong emphasis on independence, structure, and continuity between school and home. We support families by modeling Montessori practices that can be carried into the home environment, strengthening each child’s learning experience beyond the classroom.
A Rich History of Montessori Education in Santa Monica
Santa Monica Montessori School was established in 1960, originally located at the corner of 20th Street and Arizona Avenue, part of the St. John’s Hospital complex. The first owner was screen actor Tom Laughlin, and the school was initially known as the Sophia Montessori School.
Later in 1960, the school was purchased by Ruth Dresser, who renamed it Santa Monica Montessori School and relocated it to 1619 20th Street, where it expanded in size and offerings through the 8th grade. With guidance from internationally known Montessori educators, Dr. Dresser also founded the Santa Monica Montessori Institute.
In 1990, the school moved to its current location at 1909 Colorado Avenue, continuing to grow academically and institutionally.
Leadership, Diversity, and Growth
We are proud of our internationally diverse faculty and student body, our commitment to gender-equitable interscholastic sports, and the respectful, inclusive atmosphere we cultivate every day.
The school celebrated its Golden Anniversary—50 years of Montessori education—in 2010, marking a legacy of excellence that continues today.
Discover Our Santa Monica Montessori School
Families throughout Santa Monica and greater Los Angeles are invited to experience our classrooms firsthand. Seeing Montessori education in action is the best way to understand how it nurtures confident, capable, and compassionate learners.