Harmony School

We create a warm and natural environment that encourages children to explore and develop their individual capabilities and to learn problem-solving and respect for others in a spirit of kindness that nurtures a sense of belonging in our community.

Harmony School was founded by Deborah Holmes and Laura Rich in 1988. Laura and Debbie wanted an alternative to public education for their children that allowed accommodations for children's different learning styles, as well as for their emotional and social behaviors and needs. They wanted children to have a say so in what they learned.

Harmony School is a non-profit, intentionally low-tuition, private school tucked in the heart of Forest Acres in Columbia, South Carolina serving students aged 2.5-12. We are the only school in the state of South Carolina to offer a blended curriculum of Montessori, Waldorf, and Inquiry-based teaching principles.

The peaceful, non-competitive, multi-age classroom at Harmony School is a welcoming home for children who don't want to be singled out for what makes them unique or for having an educational weakness, who want to be intellectually challenged daily, and who never want to be bound by grade-level standards. We individualize instruction to address each child's special qualities, unique gifts, and emotional needs. Academic rigor in a nurturing environment is what Harmony is all about.

Testimonials

"Since enrolling our daughter at Harmony, my husband and I both feel like she's made such strides in her cognitive development and social development. She was one of the youngest in the class when she started (2.5 yo) so we were a little nervous starting her so early. The teachers and staff are so good at encouraging and cultivating each child's individual needs while still keeping them engaged. This keeps our child wanting to learn more. " - Mrs. Long