Founded in 1963 as an Illinois not-for-profit corporation, Near North Montessori School began with the commitment of three families who wanted their children to receive a useful and comprehensive education. As the cornerstone, they chose the developmental philosophy originated by Dr. Maria Montessori in Italy at the turn of the 19th century because it considers the academic, social, physical, and psychological needs of the child. The families pooled their resources, hired teachers, and launched the school with one Montessori 3-6 program. Five years later, Near North began its first elementary level class. The school continued to grow its population and enhance its programs to serve children through the junior high years. In 1989, after 26 years at 1010 West Chicago Avenue, Near North Montessori purchased a building at 1434 West Division Street. Parent fundraising efforts helped to obtain and renovate a former parochial high school building that embodies the ideals of the school.
