Accreditation

Our accreditations

CMS is recognized by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), and is fully accredited by Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS). We are also members of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), and Independent Schools of St. Louis (ISSL).

Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)

AMI was founded in 1929 by Dr. Maria Montessori to ensure the authentic continuation of her educational philosophy and methodology. All of the teachers at CMS have undergone a rigorous academic year of training beyond their undergraduate degree. In addition, the school and staff undergo a yearly accreditation process by AMI to ensure the highest standard in Montessori education. Our teachers also attend an annual three-day Montessori AMI refresher course with their colleagues from around the country. The students enrolled at CMS benefit from the staff’s continuous professional development and high standards set by AMI.

Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS)

ISACS is a membership organization of more than 230 independent schools from 13 states in the Midwest region. The purpose of ISACS is to promote the development of strong learning communities characterized by high achievements, social responsibility, and independence of governance, programs, and policies. This goal is achieved partly through a rigorous school accreditation process.

National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)

NAIS is a non-profit membership association that provides services to more than 1,700 schools in the United States and abroad. By advocating on behalf of its members, NAIS serves as the national voice of independent education. The association offers research and trend analysis, leadership and governance guidance, and professional development opportunities for school leaders.

Independent Schools of St. Louis (ISSL)

ISSL, a non-profit professional association established in 1972, includes 45 independently governed, highly acclaimed private schools throughout the St. Louis region. Member schools offer diverse curricula and extraordinary teachers while fostering a life-long love of learning.

Great Place To Work US (GPTW)

CMS is Great Place to Work®-Certified™, meaning we are recognized as an employer who creates an outstanding company culture and work experience. We are the only school in Missouri to hold this distinction and one of only two Montessori schools nationwide. Certification is a two-step process that includes surveying our employees and completing a short questionnaire about the workforce.

100% of employees at Chesterfield Montessori School say it is a great place to work compared to 57% of employees at a typical U.S.-based company. We know there is always room to grow, and we look forward to lifting each other up each and every day as we take that journey together as a unified team.