We have a shy, quiet child who has attended Bethesda Montessori school and really thrives and enjoys the school. Our child did take some time to used to it, but never fought the change and the teachers didn't put any pressure on the students at all.
We would be the first to admit that Bethesda Montessori doesn't feel like home away from home. Bethesda Montessori is a SCHOOL. We are not sure exactly why this is this way, all the teachers are really nice. Maybe it is just because Mrs. Burr is the principal that you never wanted to see in school. However in person, she is a very nice lady , very professional and respectful. It seems other parents feel the same way. Never cross Mrs. Burr. That said, the students LOVE HER and she (and her teachers) get RESULTS. I've also never seen such a professionally run business, especially around here. I suspect one could learn a lot about running any business from her. One other tell tail point about this school, there is almost no staff turn over. They all have been at the same school for years. There are few other places that can say the same. We also understand from a few of the local elementry schools that they love the students that come from Bethesda Montessori and that those children from Bethesda Montessori have a very easy transition.
So, the students love Bethesda Montessori and seem to thrive in that environment. The staff enjoy working there (as evident by the almost non-existent turnover) and the school is run with a sense of professionalism and respect rarely found around here. So, if you walk into Bethesda Montessori and feel you better be on your best behavior or you'll be off to the principals office is the worst thing at Bethesda Montessori, then I'll take that any day.
Each student and parent is different but for us and our child Bethesda Montessori works and works well.