Our History

Georgetown Hill Early School began in 1980 when our founder, Ellen Cromwell, leased unused classroom space at Georgetown Hill Elementary School in Montgomery County to start an early childhood program based on the “whole-child” approach that was emerging at the time. As an education trailblazer, Ellen developed a proprietary curriculum framework that supports children’s cognitive, physical, and social-emotional growth. Though Georgetown Hill Elementary School closed, Ellen retained the name to preserve the history of where our organization started.

Wider view of the Onica Prall Child Development Laboratory brick building, with surrounding greenery and a fenced playground visible on the side.
Woman with glasses sitting on a sofa.
Teacher helping a child write on construction paper at a classroom table.
Woman smiling outdoors
Today, Georgetown Hill Early School has grown to serve over 1200 children across many different campuses, but we are still a family business! Ellen’s vision continues through the work of her children—Peter Cromwell, our Chief Executive Officer, and Kristen Cromwell, our Chief Operations Officer. Each day, the Cromwells, along with the hundreds of other dedicated professionals at our school, work to create an environment for children and families that is aligned with our Core Values.

Our Core Values

Toddler concentrating on completing a wooden animal puzzle at a classroom table.

We are trustworthy.

You can rely on us to be honest and act with integrity.

Child hanging upside down from a dome climbing structure, smiling at the camera, with another child visible in the background.

We put the child first.

Every decision we make begins with asking what is in the best interest of the child.

Two children and a teacher holding magnifying glasses, looking through them outdoors while smiling.

We are reflective.

Continuous quality improvement and flexibility are our highest priorities.

Group of young children sitting cross-legged on a classroom floor, smiling and looking toward a teacher, with one girl in a bright pink shirt in the center

We are gentle.

We prioritize understanding, cooperation, and creating an environment where people feel valued and heard.

A boy smiles while looking through the square openings of a green playground climbing panel.

We are joyful.

Childhood (and adulthood!) brings many opportunities for joy, and we pledge to create those opportunities and live those moments with each other.