Each classroom is led by a Montessori-trained Lead Teacher and supported by Assistant Teachers.
Nido (6–18 mo): 2 classrooms | 2 teachers | up to 8 (1:4)

• Orugas (18–24 mo): 2 classrooms | 3 teachers | up to 12 (1:4)
• Mariposas (24–36 mo): 2 classrooms | 3 teachers | up to 18 (1:6)
• Pre-K (36–54 mo): 3 classrooms | 3 teachers | up to 24 (1:8)

Each classroom is led by a Montessori-trained Lead Teacher and supported by Assistant Teachers.

• Nido (6–18 mo): 2 classrooms | 2 teachers | up to 8 (1:4)
• Orugas (18–24 mo): 2 classrooms | 3 teachers | up to 12 (1:4)
• Mariposas (24–36 mo): 2 classrooms | 3 teachers | up to 18 (1:6)
• Pre-K (36–54 mo): 3 classrooms | 3 teachers | up to 24 (1:8)

Yes. Children go outside twice daily (morning and afternoon), weather permitting. In addition to our on-site playground, children occasionally visit Hamilton Park or nearby Rock Creek Park, walking together using a safety rope for supervision. When outdoor play isn’t possible, children participate in indoor movement in our auditorium or Brillando activity space.

Estrellitas is 100% Spanish immersion—Spanish is used all day, every day, so children learn it naturally through daily routines and Montessori experiences.

Through daily routines, play, and classroom lessons, your child is surrounded by Spanish all day. Teachers support understanding with clear language, repetition, and gentle guidance—there’s no pressure to speak. Over time, children naturally begin to understand and use Spanish.

We maintain a secure campus through controlled access, child-specific coded check-in/out, registered and tagged visitors, exterior security cameras, staff CPR/First Aid training, and monthly emergency drills.

Core Program: Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Before Care: 7:30–8:30 a.m. (limited spots; requires Before Care Survey)
After Care: 3:00–5:30 p.m. (age-grouped; requires After Care Survey)
Pre-K Extended Care: Before/after care for Pre-K has an additional fee. Infant/toddler staffing is coordinated through the surveys.
Full Day (with extended care): 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Before Care: Orugas through Pre-K share the auditorium space; Nido has a designated area nearby.
After Care: Children remain within their age group.

We follow a Montessori approach that supports readiness, independence, and dignity. Toilet learning begins in Orugas (18–24 months) and continues naturally through Pre-K. Classrooms are equipped with child-sized toilets and step stools, and teachers offer calm, consistent guidance while partnering with families to align routines at home and school.

Infants & Toddlers (Nido, Orugas, Mariposas): 12-month contract (September – August)
Preschool / Pre-K: 10-month contract (September – June)

Yes. Pre-K students may enroll in Brillando for Spring Break, Summer Camp, and enrichment days when school is closed. Brillando is Reggio Emilia-inspired and provides a Montessori-aligned continuation of learning. Families must register directly through the Brillando website.
Register for Brillando

We follow the DC Public Schools (DCPS) Calendar for federal holidays. The school also closes for the last two weeks of December and the last two weeks of August for professional development, maintenance, and classroom preparation. The first draft of the school calendar is shared by the end of April each year.

Estrellitas Montessori School received Montessori Educational Programs International (MEPI) accreditation in 2019. We are also an American Montessori Society (AMS) Full Member School, recognizing that we have an AMS-certified Montessori administrator or teacher and meet AMS professional development and experience requirements.

We review applications based on availability, your child’s age, and the date submitted. Waitlist timing varies because openings depend on classroom age ranges throughout the year.
When a space opens, we’ll contact you with an offer. If accepted, you’ll meet with the Director (and prospective teacher when applicable), complete enrollment paperwork, and attend a parent orientation before your child’s first day.