Bowie Children's Montessori

[Anonymous]

Hi there, anyone have any feedback, interactions, or knowledge of this school? I have a 4 year old that just started reading she definitely needs something challenging yet.nurturing. Just by the looks of it Bowie Montessori seems great just hoping for some personal experiences thanks!

[Anonymous]

We're interested in this school too - thanks OP for starting the thread!

[Anonymous]

OP here--Sure thing! I hope we get some responses soon. I have a tour coming up next week, but there is nothing like personal testimonials..

[Anonymous]

OP here--Sure thing! I hope we get some responses soon. I have a tour coming up next week, but there is nothing like personal testimonials..

[Anonymous]

Wow, still nothing?

[Anonymous]

OP here. Today was the tour, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Teachers were actively teaching lessons, kids appeared engaged and I noticed alot of independence. Campus is gorge, playground could be improved but the massive 22 acres, rabbits and chickens are sure to keep the kids entertained. I have been looking around for preschools ever since my DD was born. I feel like I know whats out there- in my neighborhood--even considered relocating to DC for a charter, but city life isnt for us. I later returned to the school (same day-they know I'm serious! ) to drop off app and app fee. DD goes for her "interview" next week. We'll see! Fingers crossed! We have prior montessori experience so we are looking forward to really loving this place.

[Anonymous]

Oh! And the upper level grades are very impressive! The 4-6 graders. Were working on various projects, research and scientific stuff with microscopes. Only got a short view to avoid disturbing them. Impressive!

[Anonymous]

I don't have personal experience, although I briefly explored it for one of my children. I will pass on what I have heard:

It is one of "the" preferred private schools in that part of PG. I overheard two women in Starbucks saying that Bowie Montessori was best for academics and Holy Trinity was best for sports. Take that for what it's worth.

I heard about some staff turmoil or changes at BM (I think one of the Starbucks ladies alluded to this, and this was on the greatschools site via parents reviews), but that was some years back. I would ensure that things are stable with teachers.

Have you looked at Patuxent Montessori? I have heard mixed things about that one, but it has its fans.

[Anonymous]

I briefly looked at. Patuxent.. I heard of the turmoil with staff turnover/new director at BM via greatschools and another site… I overlooked it. The positive reviews greatly outweighed the negative and it was years ago. We'll see!

[Anonymous]

I have two children at BMCH. We have had a good experience. The toddler program for 2 - 3 yr olds is excellent. Great teacher and developmentally appropriate. Concentration on practical life skills in the Toddler Program. Primary (age 3 - 6) has been a good experience as well. The teachers are strong and the academics are advanced (especially in math). I love Montessori math! As with any school, there is room for improvement in certain areas. The administration leaves a lot to be desired. The head of school is also a teacher for lower elementary. She is a much better teacher than administrator. From what I observed, the lower elementary teachers seem uneven. Also, how well your child does here will depend a lot on your child. It is child led and some may not be the best for children who are not focused. Generally speaking a good school for the early years. I can't speak on the upper elementary years or Jr. High.

[Anonymous]

What do you mean the teachers seem uneven?

[Anonymous]

I really am interested in this school. The commute would be so inconvenient though. We live in Mitchellville and both work in DC.