About us
The Winchester School is a private school offering preschool and elementary academic programs with before- and after-childcare serving families in Silver Spring, Aspen Hill, Olney and Rockville.
As Mary Rhim, the founder of the school put it: "I wanted to start a school that was a complete answer to what I looked for and wanted for my own children when they were young."
Founded in 1970 by Mary Rhim in Silver Spring, the Winchester School was created to offer what she wanted most for her own children: strong academics paired with rich programs in art and music for preschool, kindergarten, and early elementary students.
Located on Bel Pre Road, the school serves families from Olney, Layhill, Glenmount, Aspen Hill, Wheaton, Rockville, and Bethesda. Our program includes before- and after-school childcare, engaging indoor/outdoor play, and enriching field trips that support both fun and learning.
Today, Peter and Jill Rhim, Mary Rhim’s son and daughter-in-law, carry on the traditions and beliefs she established. They have evolved the curriculum to include additional languages, physical and enrichment programs, and a dedicated focus on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL).
The expanded curriculum now integrates these key areas:
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL): Prioritizing student well-being through SEL Practices like mindfulness, empathy-building, and emotional regulation to help children navigate their feelings and build strong relationships.
Additional Languages: Offering students broader linguistic skills and cultural awareness, which are essential for success in a globalized society.
Physical Programs: Incorporating structured movement and physical activity to support motor development and overall health.
Enrichment Programs: Enhancing the core educational experience with diverse opportunities for creative and intellectual growth beyond the traditional classroom setting.
What Makes Us Different
As a family run private school, we pride ourselves on our outstanding teachers who are dedicated to making your child’s first school experience meaningful, positive, nurturing and most of all, purposeful. Our teachers are trained and specialize in specific subjects giving them the advantage of focusing on and creating a curriculum that is both rich in content and, with our small class sizes, one that allows for individualized instruction. Our students rotate classrooms throughout the day, giving them the opportunity to explore different environments equipped with hands-on, age-appropriate materials in each subject. The groups come together for before and after school care, circle time, lunch and recess.
Our Mission
To provide a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment where preschool and elementary age children thrive using the Core Knowledge curriculum as a framework. We focus on fostering a love of learning and supporting all aspects of child development: physical, cognitive, social, and emotional.
Philosophy
We believe every child is a unique gift, deserving of love, respect, and encouragement. Our nurturing and supportive environment greets and embraces each child, cultivating a genuine joy of learning and empowering them to realize their fullest potential across all developmental areas.
Why Families Choose Us
For over 50 years, families have trusted The Winchester School for its nurturing environment, small class sizes, experienced teachers, and balanced curriculum that develops the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and creatively.
Ready to visit or enroll? Schedule a tour or request more information today.
Senior Management Team
Ms. Jill Rhim
Owner
Mr. Peter Rhim
Owner
Ms. Naila Quereshi
School’s Director, Language Arts and Math Teacher
Ms. Khadija Ferhouse
School's Administrative Director
Teachers and staff at Winchester School are dedicated, student-centered professionals who create a supportive environment where every child is encouraged to grow.
Feedback on our programs
Rated By
