About Atlas Montessori High School
Our Mission: Cultivating education with purpose.
At Atlas Montessori High School, our mission is to empower teens to become confident, capable contributors to their world. We do this by combining Montessori philosophy with a project-based, community-connected education that prepares students to thrive academically and socially as they grow to be engaged members of their communities.
Our Story
Atlas began with a simple truth: not every teen fits the traditional high school mold. Some need a place where their curiosity, voice, and sense of purpose are at the center of their education.
Our founder, Kinsey Dhoot, spent years teaching in local public schools and saw firsthand that students with Montessori backgrounds approached learning differently. They were more curious, more engaged, and more eager to ask “why?” Watching a Montessori preschooler in action made it clear: purposeful, student-led learning shouldn’t stop after elementary school.
This realization sparked a bigger idea, one that quickly grew into a shared vision with other educators and families. Together, we set out to create Atlas Montessori High School, a place where every teen is seen, challenged, and empowered to build a future that matters to them.
The name “Atlas” reflects our mission: to help young people find their place in a complex world, and to give them the confidence and skills to map their own path forward. Our mascot, the wolf, symbolizes balance, strength, and the power of community. We work to be a pack where every voice is heard, and everyone belongs.
Today, Atlas is a nonprofit, community-driven school building a new tradition in Vancouver that is inclusive, hands-on, and future-focused.
Our Philosophy: The Montessori Method for Teens
At Atlas, we adapt Dr. Montessori’s visionary approach for adolescents, blending her foundational belief in independence and belonging with the latest understanding of adolescent development.
In practice, this means:
- Multi-age classrooms where students learn from and with each other.
- Project-based, real-world learning where every student’s interest’s matter.
- Social-emotional growth is equally as important as academics.
- Strong connections to community and practical life.
Our guides (teachers) work alongside students, not just at the front of the room. We honor every student’s unique path, helping them build the skills, self-knowledge, and confidence to shape their own future.
What Makes Atlas Different?
Our Pillars in Practice
- Belonging: Every student is known, included, and valued. Connection is where growth starts.
- Learning for Life: Students solve real problems, create meaningful work, and apply knowledge beyond the classroom.
- Ownership: Teens have voice and choice from day one, setting goals, designing projects, and shaping their journey.
- Ready for Whatever Comes Next: Atlas graduates are confident, adaptable, and prepared for any path—college, career, or whatever inspires them next.
Meet our team
Kinsey Dhoot (she/her) | Executive Director
Kinsey is a veteran educator with years of experience teaching in Vancouver schools. She holds degrees in history and education, is National Board certified, and brings a global perspective as a world traveler and community leader.
Emery Hutley (they/them) | Montessori Consultant
Emery has worked across all Montessori age groups and holds certifications from the Association Montessori International (AMI). They believe Montessori offers a vital pathway for students who don’t fit the traditional mold.
Ashley Bugge (she/her) | Expedition and Activities Specialist
Ashley is a social scientist, polar explorer, award-winning author, and parent of Montessori students. She brings a spirit of adventure and inquiry to every project, helping students connect learning with the real world.
Join Our Journey
Atlas Montessori High School is a place for families who believe education should be purposeful, student-centered, and grounded in community. We invite you to discover more about our mission, our team, and what makes Atlas unique.