Our Mission

To advance quality Montessori education for all California children.

What we do

CMA works to unify and uplift our voices as Montessori schools and Teacher Education Programs so we can advocate for the inclusion of Montessori in public and private spaces in California.

We focus on partnering with regional agencies to advocate for creating pathways for state-level recognition of Montessori education. We support the work of those who advocate for teacher licensure recognition, those implementing TK programs, and agencies that validate schools. We also work to ensure California has the opportunity to provide quality Montessori education across our state.

We gather together as Montessorians to increase our knowledge as lifelong learners.

Who we were

Effective September 1, 2024, the Bay Area Montessori Association (BAMA) and the California Montessori Alliance (CMA) announced their merger. This strategic union created a powerful force for Montessori education in California by combining both organizations’ expertise, resources, and statewide reach.

Founded in 1997, the Bay Area Montessori Association (BAMA) has supported Northern California teachers, parents, and administrators by hosting in-person and online events focused on professional development. The California Montessori Alliance (CMA), founded in 2022, has centered its mission on statewide advocacy for all California Montessorians, initially focusing on pathways for Montessori credential recognition.

As part of the merger, Mary Beth Ricks, outgoing President of BAMA, transitioned to CMA Treasurer. Emma Johnston León, a founding board member of CMA, assumed the role of President of the merged organization. Pat M. Yulo, a long-term BAMA Board Member, serves as Vice President; Megan Ricks, a founding board member of CMA, serves as Secretary; and Robin Stearns, also a founding board member of CMA, serves as Membership Chair.

This leadership transition reflects both organizations’ commitment to a seamless merger and a strong, unified future for Montessori education in California. The merger will provide numerous benefits to the Montessori community, including:

Enhanced advocacy: A unified voice will strengthen our ability to advocate for Montessori education at the state, local, and national levels.
Increased resources: Combined resources will support professional development, teacher training, and curriculum development.
Expanded network: A larger network will foster collaboration, sharing of best practices, and support for Montessori schools and programs throughout California.

By joining forces, BAMA and CMA aim to:

Promote the growth and development of Montessori schools in all of California.
Support Montessori teachers in their professional journey.
Raise awareness of the benefits of Montessori education among parents, educators, and policymakers.
Advance Montessori as an accessible option for all Californian children.

This merger is a significant step forward in our shared mission to provide high-quality Montessori education to children throughout the state.