Elementary Program (Grades 1-6)
Montessori is an educational methodology based on the theories of Dr. Maria Montessori, MD, who lived and worked in Europe during the first half of the 20th century. Dr. Montessori developed materials and curriculum for educating students from birth-18 years. Her work with elementary students spanned her whole career.
We encourage parents and guardians to learn more about Montessori education to determine if it is a good fit for their student and family.
Montessori Education is:
- Based on scientific observation of the development of children.
- Designed to meet the needs of each child's developmental levels, assuming different human needs and tendencies for each level.
- Holistic – designed to educate the “whole child” including academic, physical, emotional and social education.
- Humanistic – created with the assumption that humans are natural learners and have an innate capability and drive to understand the world.
- Encourages Collaboration - diffuses negative comparisons and competition
- Relies on Intrinsic Motivation - avoids the use of rewards, praise and punishment
- Recognizes and Encourages a Social Component in Academics - values community and cooperation
Montessori Classrooms
- Have a group of mixed age children spanning three grades
- Our Lower Elementary classrooms have students in Grades 1-3
- Our Upper Elementary classrooms have students in Grades 4-6
- Keep the student in the same classroom with the same teacher for 3 yrs.
- Have uninterrupted work periods of 2.5 hrs. or more
- Allow freedom of movement and choice of materials
- Are a prepared environment with a trained Montessori teacher and specific Montessori materials.
Resources to learn much more about Montessori education are available on the American Montessori Society website.