Montessori Philosophy

1
Montessori Philosophy

• Montessori schools begin with a deep respect for
  children as unique individuals. We provide warm
  and supportive communities of students, teachers,
  and parents working together.

2
Dr. Maria Montessori

• First female to become a doctor in Italy in early
  1900s.
• Developed materials and her teaching strategies
  through extensive observation of children.
• Created the first Childrens House in the slums
  of Italy in 1902.

3
Our Montessori School

• Free public school that is a school of choice.
  Parents must request to have their child enrolled
  in our program.
• Current program is Kindergarten through 8th
  grade.
• Five day a week attendance.
• Curriculum aligned to CA state standards.

4
Whole child approach to education

• Develop academic skills.
• Foster social and emotional growth.
• Focus on physical development.
• Utilize an integrated approach to the curriculum
  with lots of cross academic learning.

5
Montessori PhilosophyFocus on identity
formation

• Desire is for children to develop a life long
  love of learning.
• Build self reliant and capable students.
• Create in them a sense of self awareness and
  confidence.
• Foster good learning strategies through self
  motivation and direction.

6
Montessori PhilosophyFocus on identity
formation

• Children learn best through direct experience and
  the process of investigation and discovery.
• Freedom within limits and respect for all are
  essential ideals in every classroom.

7
Prepared Environment

• Montessori materials are the essential tools for
  learning.
• Teacher supplies resources, opportunities for
  lessons, and a positive learning environment.
• Classroom reinforces childrens independence and
  intellectual development.
• Children work either independently, in small
  groups, or in large group lessons.

8
Multi-age classes

• Two or three grade levels are placed in each 1st
  8th grade classroom.
• Younger students learn and are motivated by
  observing older role models.
• Older students learn leadership skills and
  perfect their education through working with
  younger level students.
• Children remain with one teacher for several
  years which fosters long lasting relationships.

9
Montessori Materials

• Sequential progression of learning materials.
• Multi-sensory lessons so all learning styles are
  incorporated.
• Move from concrete materials to an abstract level
  of work.
• Many materials are self correcting.
• Work is placed on shelves for easy access by all
  the students.

10
Is Montessori right for your child?

• Does your child learn best by working with
  others?
• Is your child usually self directed?
• Is your child curious about the natural world
  around them?
• Do they learn better by doing than by reading?