
Our Director
Our team of educators is thrilled to be a part of this exciting first chapter in your child’s education! We believe in a bright future for every student at Spring Valley Montessori, and we work tirelessly to create a positive environment that nurtures creativity and inspires learning. We encourage you to get to know our educators and help us keep the door of communication wide open. This is a precious time. Together we are building a solid foundation for our children’s futures.
Meet Our Director

Christine Lonergan is the mother of four children, an award winning DC public school teacher, a graduate of United Montessori Association, and the creator/director of Spring Valley Montessori Academy.
In response to increased demand for more preschool options, Christine opened Spring Valley in 2005. Since that time, her innovative and award-winning program, specifically designed to meet the educational needs of early childhood learners, has been named “Best of Bethesda” three times!
Educational Background
Christine is a model of life-long learning. From her advanced degrees to multiple certifications, she is well-qualified to prepare the youngest of learners for success in the classroom and beyond. She currently holds the following academic certificates, awards, and degrees:
- United Montessori Association teaching certification from the United Montessori Association in Washington
- Master of arts degree in teaching elementary education from George Washington University in Washington D.C.
- Bachelor of science degree in psychology from Denison University in Granville, Ohio
Awards and Honors
- Selected for Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, a publication honoring the top 5% of America’s teachers, 2004
- Public Educator of Excellence award from the Masonic Scottish Rite of Washington D.C., 2002
- Excellence in Education award from the Washington D.C. Jaycees, 1994
- Teacher-to-Teacher award for “Developing Exemplary Classroom Programs,” D.C. Public Schools, 1993
- Developer Grant award for “Innovative Instructional Programs,” D.C. Public Schools, 1989