Hershey Montessori School News
Hershey Montessori School celebrates the 25th anniversary of its Huntsburg Campus, a pioneering model of adolescent education rooted in the Montessori philosophy...
Celebrating 25 Years of Innovation
Hershey Montessori School celebrates the 25th anniversary of its Huntsburg Campus, a pioneering model of adolescent education rooted in the Montessori philosophy. Since opening in 2000, the 97-acre campus has become internationally recognized for its commitment to experiential learning, sustainability and community-centered, project-based education.
The Huntsburg Campus was the first in the world to fully implement Dr. Maria Montessori’s vision for adolescent education, known as Erdkinder. Students aged 12 to 18 live and learn in an environment that integrates rigorous academics with purposeful work – such as farming, entrepreneurship and community engagement – fostering independence, collaboration and real-world problem-solving.
“Twenty-five years ago, we planted a seed—an idea that adolescents could thrive in a place rooted in trust, purpose and connection to the earth,” said Debra Hershey Guren, HMS board emeritus, major donor, alumni parent and current grandparent. “Watching that vision grow into a vibrant, global community has been one of the most meaningful journeys of my life.”
The campus has welcomed students from around the world, representing diverse cultures and backgrounds. Its Production & Exchange program, among many others, has been supported by donors such as The Hershey Foundation, the Rig III Foundation, The Dekko Foundation and the Jerome T. Osborne and Georgeanne S. Osborne Charitable Trust.
“I still remember my first visit to the campus – students joyfully working in the garden, confident and connected,” said John Buzzard, Huntsburg Campus director. “It was clear this was more than a school. For 25 years, Hershey has honored the adolescent journey with purpose, trust and deep respect.”
Looking ahead, the school remains committed to evolving with the needs of students and the world they will inherit.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we honor not just a moment in time, but a movement,” said Diana LeSieur, interim head of school and director of admissions. “The next 25 years hold extraordinary promise, and we are ready to meet them with purpose, passion and possibility.”
For more information about Hershey Montessori School and its programs, visit www.hershey-montessori.org.
