The Montessori Method of education, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, is a child-centered educational approach based on scientific observations of children. Montessori schools have had over 100 years of success throughout the world. The thoughtfully prepared learning environment values the development of the whole child—physical, social, emotional, cognitive.

Components necessary for an authentic Montessori environment include multi-age groupings that foster peer learning, uninterrupted blocks of work time, and guided choice of work activity. Additionally, a full complement of specially designed Montessori learning materials are meticulously arranged and available for use in an aesthetically pleasing environment.

In early childhood, Montessori students learn through sensory-motor activities, working with materials that develop their cognitive powers through hands-on experiences.  In the elementary years, the child continues to organize his thinking through work with the Montessori learning materials and an interdisciplinary curriculum as he passes from the concrete to the abstract. From there, the child begins the application of his knowledge to real-world experiences.

Montessori education offers our children opportunities to develop their potential as they step out into the world as engaged, competent, responsible, and respectful citizens with an understanding and appreciation that learning is for life. Hallmarks of Montessori education include:

• Each child being valued as an individual
• Beginning at an early age, Montessori students developing order, coordination, concentration, and independence
• Students being part of a close, caring community
• Montessori students enjoying freedom within limits
• Students supported in becoming active seekers of knowledge, self-correction and self-assessment