The Montessori Approach

Doctor Maria Montessori was clearly ahead of her time, and her core principles—that effective learning is self-directed and calls for the development of the whole person—uniquely prepares your child for our fast-changing world.

At its core, Montessori education simply is a way of being with children that allows each child to develop fully into the person he or she was destined to be. Just as you make every effort to ensure your home is loving and safe – so your child feels secure and well-adjusted – we work diligently to ensure the physical environment, the teachers, and the student community will meet your child’s needs with respect and support at each step in his educational journey.

In Montessori schools young children learn that their independence is valued. We encourage free movement, choice within carefully crafted limits, and make sure they know their voices are heard. As children get older, they begin to learn about time management. We teach them practical life skills, such as cleaning and preparing food, that can be used in the classroom, home, and beyond. This emphasis on independence gives children a tremendous sense of empowerment. 

This begins by having teachers trained in the specific developmental stages of the children they work with. By honoring where children are in their growth, we can create educational environments that perfectly suit their needs. We know that learning is not always linear, and that each individual child will need different challenges and supports throughout their time at our school. In addition, Montessori students have plenty of opportunities to deeply study areas of personal interest.

In a Montessori classroom, teachers sit beside children while they work, gathering data as they go. The three period lesson, a Montessori hallmark, is specifically designed to measure understanding and mastery during teaching. Teachers also observe students and take notes, allowing them to target areas in which students may need more challenge or support. Utilizing formative assessments each day allows teaching and learning to be adjusted in the moment, so each child is getting exactly what they need.

Our students are global citizens, they are taught at a young age about the many cultures around them, learning appreciation and tolerance. We take the time to teach skills like conflict resolution, and help children work through social dynamics as they arise. We believe that peace and kindness are the base of any quality education, and a foundation that is necessary for the progress of humanity.

In addition to the plants and animals that children help care for, our classrooms often have a museum-like quality to them. Depending on what the children are studying, one could find a variety of interesting specimens. Natural studies such as botany and zoology begin at the primary level. We also believe it is critical to bring our students out into nature daily, giving them an opportunity to learn, imagine, explore, and enjoy it firsthand.

Upon stepping into a Montessori classroom, one immediately sees the difference in our environments. We value natural materials and prefer natural lighting. Plants and animals are present, as are low shelves that allow children to easily access their work. There are areas for children to work in a group or alone, and on the floor or in a chair. Materials are of high quality, inspiring the children who use them to make their work beautiful.