This branding project for Montessori School of Education (MSofE) began with a collaborative meeting with founders Jamie Watts and Jessica Smith, both Montessori teachers with a deep passion for reshaping teacher education. Their vision was to create a program “by teachers, for teachers” that provides certifications, courses, and professional development rooted in Montessori principles.

Through our conversations, it became clear that the brand needed to strike a balance between professionalism and approachability. It had to communicate the credibility of a certified educational institution while also reflecting the warmth, curiosity, and joy of Montessori learning. The strategy focused on crafting a visual identity that felt both trustworthy and inspiring, appealing to educators seeking structure while evoking the playful creativity inherent to Montessori philosophy.

The logo was designed to be minimal, timeless, and highly recognizable, grounded in the established elements of a professional education program. Its simplicity allows it to stand confidently in academic contexts while still carrying the spirit of Montessori’s child-centered approach. The letterforms are paired with a rounded serif typeface that strikes a balance between clarity and calm, evoking trust while hinting at the nurturing qualities of the brand.

By combining educational clarity with approachable design, the logo positions MSofE as both a respected institution and a creative leader in teacher education.

The primary color palette draws from the foundation of Montessori learning: red, blue, yellow, and green. These familiar hues echo the tactile tools and materials used in Montessori classrooms, immediately sparking a sense of recognition and excitement for educators trained in the philosophy. Used together, the palette creates a playful yet professional identity system that feels vibrant, structured, and accessible.

Typography choices further reinforce this duality. The rounded serif font adds character and personality while maintaining strong readability, creating a visual voice that is both educational and welcoming. Together, the colors and typography form a cohesive system that captures the balance of structure and creativity central to Montessori education.

The new identity was applied across a suite of materials designed to support MSofE’s programs and strengthen its presence as a trusted educational provider. Branded certificates were created to honor teachers’ achievements, while custom binders organized lesson plans into a clear, professional system. An informational tri-fold brochure and a standing banner provided tools for outreach and recruitment, ensuring the brand was well-represented at events and conferences.

The branding also extended into a newly designed website and Google Ads campaigns, giving MSofE a strong digital presence to reach educators and prospective students online. Each branding element was designed to feel consistent, professional, and approachable, giving the founders the tools they need to inspire and equip the next generation of Montessori educators.