Ronald Knox Montessori School (RKMS) is a parent-owned and professionally operated, non-profit Montessori preschool serving children between 15 months and six years of age.
The school is one of the few schools receiving full accreditation by the American Montessori Society.
As such, it enjoys a reputation that belies its small size.
RKMS is located in Wilmette, Illinois, just north of downtown Chicago.
Founded in 1963 by a group of parents committed to introducing Montessori education to Chicago's North Shore, the school remains fully committed to this teaching philosophy.
Our brand new state-of-the-art facility heralds a wonderful new phase of our school's history.
The much-anticipated building includes the latest safety features and the ability to consolidate all of our programs under one roof.
At approximately 13,000 square feet, it offers spacious classrooms, a dedicated music room, a wonderfully equipped gross motor classroom and playground as well as expanded office and conference spaces.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- School Type: Montessori School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
- Enrollment: 81 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
Year Founded
1963
Summer School Offered
Yes
Student Body
Total Students
81 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
8%
State avg.: 34%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
2 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
41:1
National avg.: 13:1
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
School Notes
- Ronald Knox Montessori School (RKMS) is a parent-owned and professionally operated, non-profit Montessori preschool serving children between 15 months and six years of age. The school is one of the few schools receiving full accreditation by the American Montessori Society. As such, it enjoys a reputation that belies its small size. RKMS is located in Wilmette, Illinois, just north of downtown Chicago. Founded in 1963 by a group of parents committed to introducing Montessori education to Chicago's North Shore, the school remains fully committed to this teaching philosophy. Our brand new state-of-the-art facility heralds a wonderful new phase of our school's history. The much-anticipated building includes the latest safety features and the ability to consolidate all of our programs under one roof. At approximately 13,000 square feet, it offers spacious classrooms, a dedicated music room, a wonderfully equipped gross motor classroom and playground as well as expanded office and conference spaces.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What schools are Ronald Knox Montessori School often compared to?
Ronald Knox Montessori School is often viewed alongside schools like Rose Hall Montessori School by visitors of our site.
When is the application deadline for Ronald Knox Montessori School?
The application deadline for Ronald Knox Montessori School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
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