HISTORY
Our History: Rooted in Community, Growing With Purpose
A Visionary Beginning (1986)
In the summer of 1986, a group of passionate parents and Montessori educators founded Brickton Montessori School. Their goal was to provide an educational alternative that treated learning as a joyful, natural process. Starting with just two staff members and four children in a local church basement, the community's enthusiasm was immediate. By August of that year, the school expanded to five classrooms in a public elementary school, serving children ages two through twelve.
Finding Our Roots (1989)
By 1989, Brickton outgrew its temporary space and moved to our long-time home at 8622 W. Catalpa Ave in Chicago. Over the next three decades, this campus became the heart of our community. We expanded our mission by launching a middle school program to serve students through 8th grade and, in 2018, opened our Nido (infant) classroom to welcome our youngest learners (ages 3–24 months).
2026: The "Big Leap" To A New Horizon
As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, Brickton Montessori has embarked on its most exciting chapter yet. In Fall 2026, we moved to our brand-new, permanent home at 1695 S. River Road in Des Plaines.
This expansive two-acre campus is a milestone nearly 40 years in the making. Our new facility features:
- Custom-Designed Classrooms: Specifically tailored to support Montessori principles of independence and exploration.
- Expanded Outdoor Learning: Two acres of land, including a dedicated new playground and nature spaces.
- Room to Grow: Increased capacity to welcome more families while maintaining the intimate, supportive community that defines the "Brickton Way."
A Legacy of Excellence
From our humble start with four students to our vibrant community of 140+ learners today, Brickton remains committed to the "whole child." As we begin a new chapter in Des Plaines, we remain rooted in the same philosophy that started it all: fostering independence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Ready to see it for yourself? Experience the "Brickton Way" in person. Schedule a private tour of our campus today and see how our classrooms spark joy and curiosity.
Feedback
The Brickton Experience
“I like the sense of small community my child gets from attending Brickton Montessori School.”
Lynn Weddle, Parent of an Alumnus
Contact Us!
At Brickton Montessori School, situated in the center of Chicago, we provide an enriching educational environment where each student's distinctive potential can truly blossom. We welcome you to explore our campus and observe our vibrant learning community in action. Get in touch with us by calling
(773) 714-0646 or emailing info@brickton.org to arrange your individual visit.
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