Press Release

Monday, October 12, 2026

JACKSON, Tenn. - Community Montessori School is inviting parents, grandparents, and supporters to help shape the future of one of Tennessee's most unique educational institutions during the launch of the Friends of Community Montessori Legacy Launch on Thursday, Oct. 15, at 6 p.m.

The adults-only event will bring together members of the Community Montessori family for an evening focused on the school's future, its pursuit of national Montessori accreditation, and the role families and supporters can play in helping advance its mission. School leaders are encouraging every Community Montessori family to have at least one representative attend.

Above photo: The invitation for Community Montessori's Legacy Launch outlines an evening of live music, connection, and community support. The adults-only event begins at 6 p.m. in the CMS auditorium, features a performance by Lauren "Lolo" Pritchard, and offers shuttle service from Arlington Elementary for guest parking.

Today, the school is on track to become the first public district Montessori school in the nation accredited through the International Montessori Council (IMC). The accreditation process is part of a comprehensive three-year journey that began in 2024 and reflects the school's commitment to providing an authentic Montessori educational experience for students.

Community Montessori holds a special place in Tennessee's educational landscape as one of only two public Montessori schools in the state. The school's roots in Jackson date back more than three decades. The public Montessori program was established in 1992 at Parkview on East Chester Street with 88 kindergarten and first-grade students. One grade level was added each year, creating a complete kindergarten through sixth-grade program by 1996. The program expanded again in 2007 with the addition of middle school grades. After relocating to Bemis in 2011 and operating as The Montessori School at Bemis, the school moved to its current home at 716 Westwood Ave. in 2016 and became Community Montessori School.

Above photo: Community Montessori students participate in a variety of academic, athletic, artistic, and leadership opportunities throughout the school year. Those experiences strengthen the school's mission of providing holistic Montessori growth through hands-on learning and diverse opportunities for student development.

"The Legacy Launch is about much more than sharing information. It's about bringing together the people who believe in Community Montessori and helping them understand the incredible opportunity ahead of us," said Principal Dr. Melinda Harris. "Our vision for the future can only become reality through the support, engagement, and advocacy of families and friends who recognize the value of Montessori education. We are building a legacy that will benefit students for generations to come."

Guests will enjoy entertainment, a special video presentation highlighting the school's history, journey, and vision for the future, along with opportunities to connect with other Community Montessori families and supporters. The evening will also provide insight into how community members can contribute their time, talents, and resources to support the school's continued growth and success. Organizers say the event is designed to strengthen connections, celebrate achievements, and inspire collective support for the next chapter in Community Montessori's story.

There is nothing more important to our district than the health, safety, and well-being of our entire school community. Every voice matters, and we want to make it easy for you to communicate with your child's schools.

We’re introducing Let’s Talk, an online customer service solution that provides a convenient way for you to ask questions, request information, or share concerns.

Let’s Talk is available 24/7 from your phone, computer, or tablet, and includes staff-facing technologies that ensure you receive a timely, accurate response — every time. You can expect a response from us within two business days.