Ratner Montessori wasn’t just a school — it was a community built by extraordinary teachers and staff who poured their hearts into our children year after year. They helped shape who our kids are. They created a place where families felt safe, supported, and connected. They built a world that we all benefitted from and loved.

And then, in late July, with no time to prepare, the news came: Ratner is closing. A community that took over six decades to build was uprooted overnight.

The faculty and staff who dedicated their lives to our children are now facing the shock, uncertainty, and emotional devastation of an abrupt layoff. They didn’t choose this. They didn’t cause this. They were blindsided by this news. No one who dedicates their life to educating children expects to lose their school in late July — this is when classrooms are planned, lessons are prepared, and the year is already imagined. As a proud and grateful alumni parent, I feel a duty to now give back to them. They need us now.

The powers that be may have taken away our building — but they cannot take away our community.

These educators and staff gave us everything: stability, love, guidance, patience, creativity, and a safe and loving home for our children. While we can never fully repay what they’ve given us, we can and will show up for them now, the way they've alway shown up for us.

This fundraiser will go directly into the hands of Ratner teacher and staff members suddenly left without a school. Each member of the faculty and staff will receive an equal share of the money raised. It will be via checks or cash depending on what Nadia and the rest of the staff feels is best. They can use the fund to help cover any unexpected financial gaps they’re facing. Whether you were a part of Ratner or simply believe in supporting educators who have been nothing but incredible, giving everything they have to children, your contribution matters. Every donation is a message that this community stands strong, and that these incredible people are absolutely not facing this alone.

They made Ratner what it was.

They guided and cared for our children.

They built our community.

It’s our turn now to return the favor.

We stand with them.