Our Story
Our Philosophy
Founded on the concept of teaching with a mother's love and following the teachings of Dr. Maria Montessori, Mater Amoris provides a holistic educational experience that values personal growth, community, and academic achievement.
In conjunction with the Montessori method, connection to nature is a cornerstone of our program - utilizing our idyllic 20-acre campus to enhance our relationship with the world around us. A Mater Amoris education provides a foundation that develops a child's confidence, resilience, and kindness - preparing them for the challenges of the future.
Our History
The Mater Amoris story began in 1968 when the school's original campus opened on Chesapeake Street in Washington, DC. The school expanded from 17 students that first year to 150 students in 1979.
The Ashton/Highland campus began serving students in 1986 and has been in continuous operation since that time. Our rich history includes visits from Mario Montessori and Margaret Stevenson, national field hockey trophies, recognition as a monarch butterfly waystation, and so much more!​
Our Founder
Charlotte Shea founded Mater Amoris and was the longtime Directress, leading the school for most of its 50+ year history. Charlotte named the school in honor of her mother by using the words "mater amoris," which is Latin for "mother love."
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Charlotte currently lives in the big farm house on our campus. Along with her husband, Robert LeBlanc, she continues to be an avid supporter of Mater Amoris and a valued member of our community!
Our Logo
Adopted in October 2020, the Mater Amoris logo symbolizes who we are as an institution and a community.
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The tree represents our beautiful campus, which allows us to be in touch with nature and serves as a safe haven and peaceful setting for children's learning and growth.
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The woman incorporated with the tree - represents the love and nourishment given by a parent/caregiver, such as our wonderful teaching staff.
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The tree/woman sheltering the children shows the power of our combined setting and community to nurture the unique children who join our community.
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The children's deep engagement in their books is representative of the intrinsic motivation to learn that we strive to instill in children, while the one child's dangling leg has a whimsical feel that shows the life balance we are working to help children achieve.
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The closeness of the two children as well as their proximity to the tree/woman represents the closeness of our students and families and the bonds that are formed at Mater Amoris. It also includes the very important message that we can all lean on one another at any given time.
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The children learning under the tree reminds us of our commitment to outdoor classrooms, which were developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The insects show our connection with the wildlife that share our campus; and the butterflies represent our status as a monarch butterfly waystation.
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There is a magical quality to the image as a whole, which reflects the common sentiment shared by many alumni who recall feeling as though they were entering a magical realm each day as they walked down the driveway to begin their school day.​
Our Direction
Our 2025–2030 Strategic Plan provides a framework to guide the growth and development of Mater Amoris Montessori School over the next five years. Rooted in our mission to honor dignity, respect nature, and lead meaningful lives, the plan strengthens our foundation while preparing for continued growth.
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The plan focuses on three interconnected pillars: strengthening roots, enhancing learning, and building community. Key initiatives include advancing holistic child development, supporting diverse learners, investing in faculty and staff, expanding community engagement, and ensuring financial sustainability. We are also committed to thoughtful integration of technology, enhancing our facilities and campus, and maintaining alignment with Montessori principles and AMI standards.
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Through this work, Mater Amoris will continue to cultivate a joyful, inclusive community that empowers curious, confident, and compassionate learners to shape a better world.