It began with a vision—to create a safe, nurturing space where learning was not only meaningful, but joyful. At the heart of that vision was Alicia Marker, a trained and passionate Montessorian with an unwavering belief that school should be more than just a place—it should feel like a second home.
Alicia’s work has always centered on the child. Her passion lies in seeing each child as a whole person, capable, curious, and worthy of deep respect. For her, it is about finding the spark in every learner and fanning it into a lifelong love of discovery. Whether through carefully chosen material, a quiet moment of encouragement, or the calm rhythm of a prepared classroom, Alicia is continually guided by one question: “What does this child need to thrive?”
She dreamed of a school that felt like family—a place where children are not only taught, but truly seen, heard, and inspired. That vision took shape in 2006, when Alicia and her husband, Dan Marker, opened the first School in the Hills with just 12 students. While Alicia cultivated the educational philosophy, Dan used his business expertise to lay the operational foundation—bringing stability, structure, and steady growth through thoughtful leadership.
With a growing community and the need for a continued Montessori path, their dream expanded. Their “Elementary-sized” vision took shape with the opening of the River Place campus, which introduced vibrant Lower and Upper Elementary programs to meet the needs of their growing school family.
Today, Alicia and Dan are the proud founders of two thriving campuses, with over 350 students. Together, they created more than just a school—they built a vibrant learning community where children are empowered to explore, create, question, and grow.