As a teacher, I am often asked what attracts me to Montessori education specifically and this is a question I’m certain many parents can relate to. Inquiring minds want to know: What is it about our school that sets it apart from other educational institutions?
Why Montessori? Maria Montessori defined education as “the development of a complete human being oriented to the environment and adapted to one’s time, place and culture” (Lilliard, p. 3). This means that Montessori didn’t create an educational method so much as a philosophy; one that integrates geographical, cultural and temporal differences. Montessori education is not static; it’s vibrant and versatile.
Why Montessori? Because Dr. Montessori was a scientist, she taught us about the importance of observing the children. It is only through careful observation that we, as parents and teachers, can prepare the home and school environments to allow the children to teach themselves. Montessori reminded us that the children do the work and we are there to provide guidance and support only when our help is needed.
Why Montessori? Because we practice being in community, on the classroom level, and school-wide. From Grace and Courtesy lessons to Service Learning projects, we practice, we learn and we explore the questions: how can we care for each other? How can we give back?
Why Montessori? Because Montessori schools create a space where learning is both a joy and a passion. Because our students are active participants in the classroom and leave as lifelong learners.
Why Montessori? Because, as Maria Montessori said, “An education capable of saving humanity is no small undertaking: it involves the spiritual development of [humans], the enhancement of [our] value as individual[s], and the preparation of young people to understand the times in which they live” (Education and Peace).