How it all started:
It all started with Kinsey Dhoot, Executive Director of Atlas Montessori High School, noticing high school students that had different learning approaches, finding out they came from Montessori schools. That combined with seeing a Montessori pre schooler in action sparked the interest even more and started the journey. Read Kinsey's Story .
2022
Focus group with Cascadia Parents in May 2022 - Kinsey introduced the idea of opening up a Montessori High School. Most of us did not even know they exist , because there aren't that many. There was excitement and a few happy tears!
Together with other educators, Emery Hutley and Ashley Bugge, Kinsey started to work on the business plan & shape a picture of how a Montessori High School can look like and work.
2023
- More focus group meetings
- Deciding on the name of the school and creating a logo
The meaning of Atlas:
Atlas is about the brilliant beautiful world and finding your place and path to shine. It came from adolescence stating they feel the world is on their shoulders but it truly is on all of us as a global community to improve our world. In addition, an Atlas is a map to learn and find your path.
The Wolf Story:
The wolf as a mascot symbolizes balance, strength, and loyalty. The wolf was taken out of Yellowstone National Park but then the ecosystem became out of balance, when the wolf was brought back the ecosystem rebalanced. Being part of the AtlasMHS wolf pack is inclusive and fun.
2024
- 02/2024 Filed with Washington State the formation of a Non Profit Organization
- 03/2024 Filed IRS paperwork for 501c3 status
- 07/2024 Community Garage Sale kicked off our fundraising efforts with donated items from families. We raised our first 5K.
- 08/2024 AtlasMHS Bowling event at Hazel Dell Lane with our sponsor Mr. Browns Barbeque- raised over 4K and brought the community together. Participants loved the event and we are looking for a repeat event in the following year.
- 11/2024 Our Paint & Sip at Ben's Bottle Shop, followed by mini photo sessions and holiday item sales raised almost 3K
- 12/2025 Started engagement with Pacific Northwest Fundraising to guide us in our efforts
2025
- Starting to look for locations and teachers/guides
- Taking pre registrations from interested families
- Raising awareness of AtlasMHS
- Received donated furniture and other school items from the closing International Air Academy
- Milestone- 02/14/2025 - We finally received our 501c3 Non profit status !
What’s Next:
Getting the word out - we need 10 students (incoming 9th and 10th graders) by June 2025
Filing the official school application with the Board of Education
Continue to search for year 1 location - 800-1000 sf
Interview teachers interested to be part of our school
Reach out to supporters to meet our initial goal post of 60K by end of June
June 2024 - Board decision on opening in August 2025