We inspire and guide children to love learning, to love one another, and to love the world around them.
OUR VISION:
We envision a humane and peaceful society where people of all ages feel reverence and responsibility for all that sustains life on Earth
OUR STATEMENT ON DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION:
MSNV has a responsibility and a role in advocating for a world of love, acceptance, understanding, and inclusion. We empower our community to embrace these values by fostering respectful and compassionate interactions with all people. We aim for our students to embody a profound appreciation and respect for differences and interconnection, and to move forward with a commitment to equity, justice, and inclusion. The MSNV community moves forward with a commitment to equity, justice, diversity and inclusion.
A NOTE ON THE ANNUAL REPORT
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our listing of donors. If you find an error or omission, please contact Kari Cafeo, Head of School at kcafeo@msnv org or Andreka Johnson, Director of Marketing Communications at ajohnson@msnv org All gifts listed in this report are those received between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025.
Head of School Message
“The child, making use of all that he finds around him, shapes himself for the future."
—MariaMontessori
This year opened a defining chapter in our school’s story, rooted in a vision set six decades ago to nurture every child’s curiosity, independence, and sense of purpose through Montessori education. That vision reached a new horizon with the launch of our middle school and the graduation of its first class of students.
For more than 60 years, our community has trusted in the enduring promise of Montessori, believing that when children are guided with respect and intention, they grow into confident, capable, and compassionate individuals. The addition of our Middle School Program honors that legacy while carrying it forward It signifies both the intentional growth of our educational mission and our enduring commitment to guide students as they progress from early childhood into adolescence
Throughout the year, our campus reflected this same spirit of purpose and connection. The joy of the Fall Festival, the creativity of the Elementary Broadway Revue, and the reflective conversations shared during Third-Year Parent Teas each reminded us of the strength of our community. These moments are a testament to the shared values that unite us: curiosity, respect, and the belief that every child holds extraordinary potential.
As we look to the future, I am deeply grateful—for the dedication of our faculty and staff, the trust of our families, and the collaboration that defines our community. Together, we continue to cultivate not only the minds of our students, but their capacity to shape a better world.
With warmest regards,
Kari Cafeo Head of School
MSNV BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The President’s Note
As we reflect on the past year, we see a school that continues to grow with clarity of purpose. Establishing our middle school and graduating our first class are not simply milestones in program development, but powerful affirmations of what sustained leadership and shared vision can achieve. For decades, the school has evolved with purpose, remaining faithful to Montessori principles while responding to the needs of today’s learners.
Each success we celebrate is the result of thoughtful collaboration between our dedicated faculty and staff, our engaged families, and the many leaders who have guided this institution with care. Together, we have built a strong foundation for the school’s future, one grounded in trust, transparency, and an enduring belief in the transformative power of Montessori education.
As trustees, our work is both practical and aspirational We are charged with safeguarding the mission, ensuring the long-term sustainability of our programs, and supporting the educators who bring our philosophy to life each day. This year reminded us that stewardship is not only about governance or growth, but about honoring the values that have defined this community for more than 60 years.
It is an honor to serve a community committed to thoughtful leadership, meaningful learning, and the lasting impact of a Montessori education.
Warm regards,
Nicole Kaeding President, MSNV
Board of Trustees, 2024-2025
2024-2025 MSNV BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Daryn Cambridge
Vice
President
Nicole Kaeding
President
Stacy King-Scanlon
Devon Kuehne
Lydia Kyohere
Secretary
Khaleaph Luis
Tyler Martinez
Frauke Nitschke
Jen Talley
Christian Tansey
Treasurer
Brent Tweddle
Brian Wlcek
Coming Full Circle
Celebrating the Middle School Graduates
Over 60 years ago MSNV’s founding families had a dream, to p guide children through every stage of their development, from y y threshold of young adulthood. This year, that dream became reality.
In June, six remarkable students made history as the first graduates of the MSNV Middle School program. Their journey represents more than academic achievement; it symbolizes the fulfillment of a decadeslong vision and the promise of a seamless Montessori experience from two through 14 years.
The middle school was built upon the belief that adolescence, like every earlier stage, deserves an environment designed for exploration, independence, and authentic connection. Guided by Montessori principles, these students became active participants in shaping their own education. They planned field studies that reflected their curiosities, led community initiatives, and learned how their individual contributions strengthen the whole.
From the serenity of sailing on the Potomac River and the challenge of scaling a rock wall to lively dance classes and the discipline of martial arts, their experiences embodied the Montessori approach to developing both body and mind. Each opportunity nurtured confidence, collaboration, and selfawareness qualities that will carry them well beyond the classroom.
IIN THEIR OWN WORDS
Discover the Middle School experience through the voices of our inaugural graduates. Click the images below to hear their stories.
KASEN
Entrepreneurship, too, played a defining role in their journey. Through the Montessori Market, students created and sold handmade goods, learning firsthand how a microeconomy operates. They discovered the balance between creativity and responsibility, turning ideas into action and effort into impact.
Equally meaningful were the ways these students gave back. They stepped into leadership roles on campus, presenting The First Great Lesson: The Coming of the Universe to younger peers, mentoring students in their buddy class, and modeling what it means to lead with compassion and purpose
Amanda Wallhermfechtel has taught in the Middle School program since its first students walked through her science lab. Wallhermfechtel, like her students, experienced the benefit of a Montessori education. “Guiding MSNV’s first class of graduating middle school students through the same Montessori philosophy that once guided me felt both nostalgic and inspiring,” Wallhermfechtel said. “Watching them grow in independence, curiosity, and confidence reminded me why this approach is so meaningful.”
As each graduate took the stage to share their reflections during graduation, their words painted
a picture of growth, gratitude, and deep connection. For Safia, who began her Montessori journey in Primary, the moment was especially poignant. “Through the Montessori way, I’ve learned compassion, curiosity, resilience, and independence—and I see those same values reflected in the people sitting next to me tonight,” she said.
As the students’ math teacher, MK Carlson also reflected on the magnitude of the experience. “The inaugural class had such a unique opportunity,” Carlson said. ”They helped lay the foundation for a program that will continue to support and inspire students for many years to come ”
Serving as the guest speaker for the ceremony, Kent Allen brought the story of MSNV full circle. His connection to the school reaches back to its very beginning, his parents were among the founders, and he was one of MSNV’s first students. Over the years, his relationship with the school has evolved, from alumnus to member of the Board of Trustees. As he looked at the graduates, Allen reflected on what this milestone would have meant to his parents and the other founding families whose vision made this moment possible.
Just as this milestone would not have been possible without the vision and dedication of MSNV’s founders, it also stands as a testament to the continued commitment of the entire school community. The faculty and staff, whose guidance and care shape each student’s journey, played an essential role in bringing this moment to life. The graduates themselves expressed heartfelt gratitude to the teachers and staff who nurtured their growth, both as learners and as individuals. “You have helped us learn and grow in ways we never imagined,” Isabella said “You’ve made MSNV feel like our home away from home, and we will carry your lessons with us as we move forward into the next chapter of our lives.”
Perhaps one of the most touching moments of the evening came from Julian, a graduate who began his MSNV journey in Preprimary. Reflecting on his time at the school, he shared, “If I had 100 more lives, I’d choose MSNV in every single one of them.”
Their words capture the spirit of what this moment means not just for the students, but for the entire MSNV community. As Head of School Kari Cafeo shared at the ceremony, “To our graduates you are pioneers As the first class to complete the full journey through our Montessori continuum, you’ve helped shape the path for others to follow. You’ve set the tone for what it means to be a middle school student at MSNV.”
Indeed, this first graduating class has done more than complete a milestone; they have brought a long-held dream full circle. Their journey is a testament to what happens when vision, community, and purpose come together to create something extraordinary.
IF I HAD 100 MORE LIVES, I’D CHOOSE MSNV IN EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM. JULIAN -
2024-2025 EVENTS
FALL FESTIVAL
For decades, families have marked their calendars for Fall Festival, and it’s easy to see why. From catching up with friends over a warm bowl of chili and cheering on classroom games to joining Mr. Nate’s drum circle and hearing the joyful voices of our students, the day is filled with connection and community. This year’s Fall Festival also debuted our inaugural book fair. What a wonderful way to kick off fall!
2024-2025 EVENTS
MIDDLE SCHOOL
MUSICAL
Extra! Extra! Read all about! In November, MSNV’s Middle School students took center stage during their fall production of Newsies. For three performances, students dazzled audiences with heartfelt solos, witty dialogue, and memorable costumes. The Middle School faculty joined in the fun, making several cameo appearances. Their collective performance was surely front page news!
2024-2025 EVENTS
FAMILY MUSIC JAMS
Our Family Music Jams have quickly become a cherished tradition for our Preprimary and Primary families Each gathering filled the air with rhythm, laughter, and song as Mr Nate guided students and parents through the joy of musicmaking together. These moments beautifully reflect a core Montessori truth: learning is most powerful when it’s shared.
2024-2025 EVENTS
ELEMENTARY
BROADWAY REVUE
Students from the MSNV’s Elementary program brought the house down with showstopping performances from start to finish! Whether you have a sweet tooth for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, can’t resist the school spirit of High School Musical, or love the whimsy of Finding Nemo, there was something for everyone. Here’s a well-deserved round of applause for an awesome Broadway Revue!
2024-2025 EVENTS
THIRD-YEAR PARENT TEAS
Each spring, third-year Primary students trade their water bottles and snack pouches in for teacups and scones at the annual Third-Year Parent Tea. As hosts of the event, students worked closely with their teachers to plan a thoughtfully prepared afternoon of delicious treats for parents and special loved ones What a wonderful example of Grace and Courtesy in action!
JULY 1, 2024 - JUNE 30, 2025
TUITION & FEES (NET)
$5,552,842
INVESTMENTS
$295,152
EXTENDED DAY
$291,444
SUMMER CAMP
$226,211
FUNDRAISING & OTHER
$78,459
TOTAL EXPENSES EXPENSES 6,330,374
TOTAL REVENUE REVENUE $6,444,108 ION MENT & ADMINISTRATIVE D DAY CAMP ING & DEVELOPMENT
2024-2025
MSNV DONORS
We are happy to recognize the following individuals who made gifts to MSNV this year through the MSNV Fund. Your generosity supports every aspect of our Montessori community so that we may inspire and guide our students to love learning, to love one another, and to love the world around them. Your contributions are helping to produce creative and innovative leaders for tomorrow's world.
