Pincushion was founded in 1962 by Cecile M. Zaik and is the oldest Montessori School in New England. Cecile searched for the best education that would allow her four children to develop their potential. She found Montessori. Cecile was committed to offering the Ashland community an education based on the coordinated research of Dr. Maria Montessori and her associates. The school grew to fill the family's home, as twenty-five children enrolled in September 1962.

Cecile’s daughter, Christine Kovago, came aboard as a Children’s House Montessori teacher in 1979. She and her husband, Gus, have run the school together since 1994.

The school has grown into a warm, loving community of students, families, and teachers committed to offering children an international world-class education. Pincushion is a board run school and has been a non-profit organization since the 1980s.

Our Vision

The Pincushion Hill Montessori School is deeply committed to laying the foundation upon which each child can build a lasting and memorable educational experience. We foster competent responsible, adaptive citizens who are lifelong learners and problem solvers.

Our Mission

The mission of the Pincushion Hill Montessori School is:

1. To inspire a passion for excellence.
2. To nurture the curiosity, creativity, and imagination born within us all.
3. To give our children a vision of the universe and awaken their human spirit.

Core Values

1. To cultivate a passion for excellence in everything the children do both inside and outside of school.
2. To develop a strong set of universal values which include:
   
   • Self Respect
   • Respect for Others
   • Honesty
   • Integrity
   • Responsibility
   • Empathy
   • Compassion
   • Kindness
   • Peacefulness
   • A Concern for Others
   • Warmth
   • Love of Community
3. To develop a global perspective and sense of international understanding and respect.
4. To instill a life long commitment of giving something back through service to others who are in need.