Eagle Rock Montessori School first opened its doors in 1975, founded by Ute deLara, a German immigrant who came to the United States in 1968 as a working civil engineer. After the birth of her three children, Ute began searching for a school that truly reflected her educational values.

​

"Once my three children were born, I couldn’t find a school in the area that truly impressed me. I had always been inspired by the Montessori method, so I earned my Montessori Certification and eventually opened Eagle Rock Montessori School. It became my legacy to the Eagle Rock community."

What began as a single classroom in a converted house, now known as Building 2, with a small group of students including her daughters Sue, Dee, and Marikit, soon grew into a thriving learning community focused on curiosity, independence, and respect for the child. 

​

Her husband Rudy brought his own vision to the school by designing and building the Dome, which still serves as the heart of our Pre-Primary program today.

​

Today, Ute's vision continues through her daughter Marikit, one of the school’s very first students. She now serves as the Director of Eagle Rock Montessori School and leads the school with the same care and dedication that inspired its founding.

​

As we celebrate 50 years, we honor the many educators, families, and children who helped shape ERMS into the vibrant school it is today. From the early guidance of Jansje Tedoni, who was trained directly by Dr. Maria Montessori, to the dedicated teachers who have remained part of our community for decades, the spirit of Montessori education remains at the heart of everything we do.