Our Principal

Welcome to Highland Mill Montessori

Dear Highland Mill Montessori Families,

Welcome to Highland Mill Montessori! I am excited to welcome you to a school community that is rich in history, deeply rooted in Montessori principles, and committed to helping every child grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Our Legacy of Excellence

Highland Mill Montessori has a proud legacy that began in 1996 when Billingsville Montessori School opened on Skyland Avenue. Through the dedication of families, staff, and community members, the school grew into a thriving Montessori program. In 2002, the magnet program moved to its current location on Clemson Avenue and became Highland Mill Montessori, continuing a tradition of excellence and authentic Montessori education.

Today, Highland Mill Montessori is a full magnet Montessori school where children are encouraged to learn through exploration, discovery, and meaningful experiences. Our students develop independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning through hands-on lessons, multi-age classrooms, and individualized instruction. Just as important as academic success, we focus on helping children build character, practice grace and courtesy, respect others, and become responsible members of their community.

Our school’s success is built on strong partnerships among students, staff, families, and community members. Together, we create a nurturing environment where every child feels supported, valued, and challenged to reach their fullest potential. Highland Mill Montessori's recognition as a Magnet School of Excellence and a Certified Magnet School of America reflects the dedication of our entire school community.

Family Engagement & Safety Guidelines

I encourage every family to become actively involved in our school. Whether you volunteer, attend events, or support learning at home, your partnership is invaluable. Please remember that CMS volunteers must register each year and select Highland Mill Montessori as their volunteer site. For the safety of our students and staff, all visitors must present a valid photo ID when checking into the school.

Meet Your Principal

Allow me to introduce myself. I am Dr. Andrea Mills, and it is truly an honor to serve as the principal of Highland Mill Montessori. I bring more than 22 years of experience in education, having served as a teacher, instructional coach, academic facilitator, dean of students, assistant principal, and now principal.

I earned my bachelor's degree in history with a concentration in Middle Grades Education and my master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from North Carolina Central University. I later completed my school administration licensure at UNC Charlotte and earned a doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Capella University. Most recently, I completed Montessori leadership training, further strengthening my commitment to authentic Montessori practices.

As both an educator and a parent of two Montessori children, I understand how important it is for every child and family to feel a true sense of belonging. My goal is to ensure that every student, family member, staff member, and community partner feels welcomed, valued, heard, seen, and respected. I want everyone who walks through our doors to know they are an important part of this school community and that their presence helps make Highland Mill Montessori stronger.

Equity, inclusion, and excellence guide the work we do each day. I believe every child deserves access to high-quality learning experiences that honor their individuality while preparing them for future success. I look forward to partnering with you as we continue to strengthen our school community and create opportunities for every child to thrive.

Thank you for choosing Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and Highland Mill Montessori. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this exceptional community. Please know that I welcome your questions, ideas, and feedback as we work together to make Highland Mill Montessori the very best it can be for our students. I can be reached at (980) 343-5525 or andreaj.mills@cms.k12.nc.us.

With gratitude,
Dr. Andrea Mills
Principal, Highland Mill Montessori