Accreditations
West End Montessori School (WEMS) achieved accreditation from the American Montessori Society (AMS) in June 2023 for meeting clearly defined standards of excellence. Following this, in November 2024 the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS) accredited WEMS. Additionally, in February 2025 WEMS was accredited by the Virginia Council for Private Education (VCPE).
AMS Accreditation
“The Gold Standard of Montessori School Excellence”
The accreditation process involved a rigorous two-year self-study with the entire school community evaluating various aspects, such as leadership, educational practices, resources, safety protocols and future vision. This was followed by a thorough on-site AMS verification team evaluation identifying strengths and areas for improvement. WEMS is dedicated to ongoing growth and excellence based on recommendations from the accreditation team and our strategic plan. Achieving accreditation confirms adherence to Dr. Maria Montessori’s educational philosophy and AMS’ high standards, ensuring excellence in programs, facilities, and financial stability. Only approximately 15% of member schools are AMS accredited. To learn more, please visit AMS.org
VCPE Accreditation
WEMS is also accredited by the Virginia Council for Private Education (VCPE), which sets educational excellence standards in the Commonwealth of Virginia. VCPE oversees the accreditation of PK-12 private schools and promotes collaboration among private schools, public schools, and government entities. Accreditation ensures that student credits from private schools (WEMS) are transferable to any public school. To learn more, please visit VCPE.Org
MSA Accreditation
“Excellence by Design”
WEMS is fully accredited by the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS). The primary goal of MSA-CESS is to validate and enhance educational quality. WEMS underwent a thorough evaluation reviewed by impartial peers to ensure our educational practices align with global standards. MSA-CESS collaborates with the U.S. Department of Education to ensure that accredited schools prepare students for success in American colleges and universities. Please visit Learn about MSA-CESS
Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools
Associations
WEMS is a member of the Virginia Montessori Association (VMA) which was founded in 2015. VMA unites Montessorians across Virginia, providing a community where administrators, educators, parents, and other supporters can connect, share information, communicate, and advocate in a manner that benefits everyone involved. To learn more, please visit VMA
