Our Story
The Foundation of Alef Bet Montessori School
The foundation of Alef Bet Montessori School can be traced back to 2004, when Ayelet Lichtash, who had recently moved from Tel Aviv to Maryland, first found out about Montessori through a friend. After falling in love with the Montessori method of education and sending her daughter to a Montessori school, Ayelet worked tirelessly with local community members to create something very unique; a Jewish Montessori school which combines a love for Judaism and Israel with certified AMI Montessori teaching. Families no longer have to choose between a Montessori school and a Jewish school. The Alef Bet team is endlessly excited to continue on this amazing journey of providing the best possible education to our community.
Timeline of Alef Bet
2005
The Alef Bet Montessori School was established and the first class opened with 8 students at the corner of Old Georgetown Road and Tilden Lane.
2008
Each year a class was added, and by 2008, there were 3 classes formed: two Primary classes (ages 3, 4, and 5) and one Toddler class (ages 18 months to 3).
2011
The first Elementary class at Alef Bet was opened for 1st, 2nd, 3rd grade. The first location was at Rock Creek Palisidase Park, Kensington, Maryland. The school was over 2 small campuses - Aish Hatorah and Rock Creek Paisidase Park.
2012
The Elementary program has grown to include 1st to 6th grade students. In addition, Alef Bet School moved from the Aish Hatorah building and the building in Rock Creek Palisidase Park in Kensington, MD to a Public School building on Grosvenor Lane, in North Bethesda, Maryland.
2015
Alef Bet School moved, yet again to another public school facility in Bethesda, at Whittier Woods building for a temporary time.
2017
The School purchased its permanent home with help of generous donors and members of the community. With their help the building was gutted, redone, a new roof was added and finally opened for use in January of 2019. Alef Bet owns this home and plans to use it going forward.
2024
Completion of Capital Campaign
We are thrilled to share a monumental milestone in our school’s journey — the successful completion of our Capital Campaign and the purchase and building of our very own home!
This exciting achievement has allowed us to expand and now offer a comprehensive Montessori program for Toddlers (beginning at 18 months), Primary (ages 3 to 6), and Elementary (1st through 6th grade). Our thoughtfully prepared environments support each stage of a child’s development, rooted in the values and practices of authentic Montessori education.
Our dedicated and passionate team is fully trained and certified, holding both Montessori Teacher Certification and AMI Accreditation, ensuring the highest standards of academic excellence and child-centered learning.
Just as important as our academic growth is the flourishing of our vibrant and supportive school community. Our families have come together to build something truly special — a place filled with connection, joy, and shared celebration. From meaningful events to spirited gatherings, our school is alive with warmth and purpose.
We are proud to celebrate Jewish life in a way that is festive, inclusive, and deeply rooted in tradition. Our school is more than just a place of learning — it is a welcoming home, where children and families grow together in heart, mind, and spirit.
Together, we look to the future with joy, confidence, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing the whole child in a space filled with love, learning and community.