Our mission is to provide an environment to meet the individual needs of young children guided by teachers trained in the Montessori philosophy. This philosophy acknowledges that the child is the creator of the adult and, therefore, education must be a help to the child so he/she can develop to his/her fullest potential. This growth must be observed and aided with deep respect and ongoing trust. Respect for one's self; respect for one's classmates, teachers, and all others; respect for the environment inside and outside of the classroom and for all living beings are cornerstones of our philosophy.

Northwest Suburban Montessori School is a not-for-profit, non-denominational organization founded by a group of parents in 1964. Originally in Des Plaines, the school moved to Arlington Heights in 1969 and continued to offer half-day classes for preschool and kindergarten age children. In the fall of 1974, the school moved again to a larger facility where a full-day Montessori program was inaugurated.

The "toddler" Montessori classes, for children 21-36 months of age, round out the program in our current facilities. NSMS is licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and is an affiliate of the American Montessori Society. The school has been a chosen site for professional training of interns from two Montessori teacher training centers (Midwest Montessori Teacher Training Center and MECA Seton Training Center).

NSMS is a child care facility licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, and the school complies with all applicable laws, including the ADA. The school does not discriminate based upon race, sex, national origin, religion, or physical or mental handicap.

Contact the office via e-mail or phone (847-259-6044) for further information about the school.