What is Montessori?

The Montessori program provides learning experiences for children of all capabilities in a multiage environment. Montessori is a philosophy and style of teaching that was first developed by Maria Montessori in 1914. The curriculum includes a wide range of subjects brought together in a carefully prepared environment under the direction of teachers trained in the Montessori Method. Skills or concepts are taught using real concrete examples or models. This "hands-on" approach allows children to "discover" answers to problems on their own. Learning in the curriculum spirals, building upon and connecting to what has already been learned, and each year adding detail and higher thinking skills.

Montessori emphasizes individualized learning. While some instruction is given to the group, the focus during work times is on each student working at his/her own challenge level. The lid is off the grade-level curriculum and students progress according to their own ability. The multigrade environment allows students to work at their ability levels in addition to having the opportunity to be part of the teaching (and learning) process by assisting fellow students. The Montessori classroom is a cooperative learning environment - not a competitive environment.

The basic curriculum follows the Central School District’s essential learning guidelines in addition to focusing on higher-level thinking skills. The curriculum provides a wide variety of choices to meet students’ individual interests and learning styles. Individual growth and accountability are key components of the program. For example, students participate in the care of their classroom, their own learning plan and lesson delivery, and in extended activities outside their classrooms in the community.

Parents are actively encouraged to participate in all aspects of the child’s education in the classroom and at home. Parents in our program take part in classroom activities sharing personal experiences about jobs and skills, volunteer as teachers’ assistants, lead after-school activities and field trips, and of course share in homework activities.

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