Our Community
Rogers Park Montessori School was founded by five families seeking to build a Montessori community within their Chicago neighborhood. Today, we view community as one of the most important reasons families choose RPMS:
Our students learn in multi-age classrooms, finding their place and respecting their role in a community that extends beyond their same-age “grade.”
Our parents gain confidence alongside their children through lasting friendships, authentic support, and a community that walks hand-in-hand through every stage of childhood.
In our close-knit Montessori community, we show up with and for one another.
Our families linger long after pick-up time; parents chat while children chase each other on the front lawn.
Our middle school graduates return to serve as enthusiastic assistant coaches and supportive mentors for the next generation.
Students of all ages take pride in our partnership with Common Pantry, from Kindergartners crafting holiday wreaths for homebound seniors to multi-family donation drives.
Rogers Park Montessori School’s experienced, dedicated faculty are committed to meeting each student where they are, guiding their learning and helping them grow as people.
Every RPMS teacher (also known as a guide) holds a Bachelors or Masters degree and is certified in Montessori education. Our teachers stay with RPMS for many years, forming close relationships with children throughout their Montessori journeys. Some are even teaching the next generation of Montessori families.
RPMS is a board-governed 501(c)(3) organization. The Board of Directors meets approximately eight times per year, and focuses on the school’s strategic direction and long-term sustainability in line with our mission and core values.
Board committees include: Business Finance, Diversity and Inclusion, Marketing, and the Committee on Trustees, Advancement, and Alumni Relations.
The Rogers Park Montessori School Family Association (RPMS FA) builds our community, engages our families, and fosters a culture of transparency through open communication. Every parent or guardian of an RPMS student is automatically an FA-level member of the Family Association.
The Family Association’s leadership team, composed of parent volunteers, collaborates with our school’s administration to nurture and strengthen our Chicago Montessori school community and support our students and teachers. Our Leadership members also facilitate meaningful volunteer opportunities for all FA members.
The Family Association sponsors a variety of family activities and volunteer opportunities throughout the year. Current FA members can visit our Parent Portal to learn more.
Children aren’t the only ones growing at RPMS. We believe parenting is a lifelong learning journey, too. RPMS helps our parents understand, build relationships with, and show up for their children throughout their Montessori experience.
Creating a positive learning environment stems from students having a good mindset, staying encouraged and supported, and not giving up.
—COUNSELOR KAYLA
Some of the strongest RPMS friendships started during our volunteer sessions, and it’s one of the many ways families support and shape our community.
Volunteer opportunities throughout the year include:
Interested in getting involved? We’d love to help you find a volunteer opportunity that fits your interests and schedule. Email Director of Development Rebekah Paine at rpaine@rpms.org.
Some communities represent your childhood. Others stay with you forever.
At RPMS, we’re proud to reflect every stage of life; the connections formed here don’t end at graduation. Our Banyan Tree Alumni Association connects alumni, former families, faculty, staff, and friends who continue to be part of our community.
You’ll always have a home at RPMS, whether you’re reconnecting with old friends, returning for school events, mentoring or coaching current students, or giving back to the school you love.
Email Director of Development Rebekah Paine at rpaine@rpms.org to get involved.
The RPMS community extends well beyond our students and parents. Grandparents, extended family, and special friends play an important role in the lives of our children, and we love creating opportunities for them to experience our school.
Learn about a day in the life of an RPMS student. Guests gather for a brief reception with our principal, then visit classrooms with their loved ones before enjoying lunch with our students. This year’s Grandparents’ Day will be held Friday, May 9, 2025.
Grandparents and special friends receive several school publications and event announcements throughout the year, including The Window newsletter and Grandparents’ Day invitations.
Contact Director of Development Rebekah Paine at rpaine@RPMS.org to be added to our mailing list, become a volunteer, or make a financial contribution.
Where children learn to follow their own lead — right here in Chicago’s Andersonville neighborhood.
Information about joining the RPMS community, including admissions, tuition, and financial aid.
Each stage of our Montessori journey builds confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Our shared values guide us to peace within self, relationships, school, community, and the greater world.