Selkirk Montessori, Our History


 
 
 
 
 
The Selkirk Montessori School is located on the Selkirk Waterfront, a unique urban development in Victoria, British Columbia. With a population of 120 preschool and 157 elementary and middle school-aged children attending, Selkirk is the largest Montessori school in Greater Victoria.

 
 
 
 
 Watercolours by Victoria Artist - Gerald Fleming
 
 
 
Founded in 1980, the school was originally housed in a small, wooden frame building on the grounds of a local public school. First principal and administrator, Karen Colussi, was also one of the founding parents. For 18 years, the school community – children, parents, staff, administration and directors – raised funds with one goal in mind: a home they could call their own. Their dreams were realized in January 1998, when ground was broken at the future site of the new facility.   Sadly, Karen did not live to see the completion of the building, dying in February 1998 after a long battle with cancer. The school building is dedicated in her memory.
 
   
Designed by local architects Marshall & Garyali, the three-storey structure features three preschool classrooms, six elementary classrooms, a full-size gymnasium, a library, a multi-purpose room, a music room, a languages room and administrative and work spaces. Using bright colours, interesting shapes and lots of natural light, the architects have created a building that is attractive and inviting to children and adults alike.
 
Nestled next to the rejuvenated Gorge Waterway, the Selkirk Green, and the Galloping Goose trail, the school is able to use the natural environment of the area for both education and recreation.
 
With an eye to the future, Selkirk Montessori School takes its cue from the past to fulfill their mission statement.