About us.

We're a community rooted in curiosity, care, and the belief that every child is a natural learner. Discover the people, philosophy, and purpose behind Harmony Montessori.

Our mission.

Toddler at Harmony Montessori
growth with us

our commitment

Anti-bias Anti-racist statement.

Harmony Montessori School recognizes that racism, bias, and privilege are present in our culture and institutions. We affirm our identity as an anti-racist and anti-bias organization and continue to develop and strengthen an intentionally anti-racist and anti-bias identity. Anti-bias referring not only to race and ethnicity but includes gender, sexual orientation, religion, physical and mental abilities, language, and socio-economic class.

We acknowledge, respect, and embrace our differences and promote positive self and group identity development among children and adults in our community.

We seek to apply an anti-racist/anti-bias lens to all aspects of our organization including policy, procedure, and classroom curriculum, thus creating a more equitable and inclusive school and community.

We are dedicated to providing anti-bias curriculum within our classrooms. We believe honest, thoughtful conversations about race, biases, and inequity can and must be happening with our children from a very early age. This is an important part of our work to support the "whole child." Our children deserve to be equipped with the appropriate tools to fight social injustices. We are honored to have the opportunity to guide the next generation of leaders that will fight for equity, affect change, and transform our world.

We strive to understand, identify and challenge issues of bias and inequities that may be present within our organization.

since 1994

Our history.

What began in 1994 as a shared vision among a small group of dedicated parents has grown into the vibrant Harmony Montessori School community we know today. As the school has grown and evolved, it has continued to serve the changing needs of families and students throughout East Portland, expanding its programs, classrooms, and learning opportunities while remaining committed to authentic Montessori education. The milestones below celebrate the people, relationships, and shared experiences that have helped build the strong and welcoming community that continues to define Harmony today.

timeline

Milestones & memories.

1994:

Harmony Montessori School was started when a small group of parents approached our founder Jude Foster. These "pioneer parents" shared a commitment to help create a new, holistic Montessori school in east Portland for their own children and the many children to come.

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1996:

Harmony was granted federal 501(c)(3) status in the spring.

1999:

Harmony expanded and moved to a new location at Savage Memorial Presbyterian Church and the school grew to two classrooms: the Waterfall Room and the River Room.

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2008:

The Ocean Room Opened!

2013:

Harmony acquired a new location on Cherry Blossom Drive and added both an Elementary class, the Forest Room, as well as a fourth Primary classroom, the Lake Room.

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2021:

Due to flooding, Harmony moved to their current location in the Rockwood Neighborhood. Harmony became part of the Preschool For All Pilot program.

2022:

Elementary program ended due to lack of interest. Strategic planning for growth to include future toddler and infant classrooms begins.

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2024:

Toddler program and new Primary classroom opens!