Curriculum
Our Montessori-blend program is based on the philosophy originally developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the late eighteen, early nineteen hundreds. Montessori’s teaching system is based on an integration of child observation, practical hands on activities, and a progression towards independent learning. The materials offer learning experiences in a clear, concrete manner. Students are encouraged to use motor and intellectual discovery when working with the Montessori materials. As a public Montessori-based program, we embrace the Montessori philosophy and integrate it with the state-adopted curriculum.
Key elements of our Montessori-blend program:
- The prepared environment is arranged in a logical sequence of skill acquisition and concept building. In this way, the students observe and experience a movement toward achieving goals.
- The materials initially isolate knowledge to one concept at a time in a concrete manipulative style.
- Prepared environment is a combination of teacher instruction, an ordered environment with materials for student exploration, and a respectful interaction between students.
- Focus on fostering and developing students as independent learners.
- Teacher’s role is as facilitator to guide the student through Montessori work plans interwoven with state-standard curriculum.
- Multi-age grouping, activities, and prepared classroom setting. The integration of varied age spans allows confidence-building experiences.
- Teaching control of movement, grace, and courtesy.
- Teaching respect of self, others and environment.
- Focus of moving the students from processing concrete concepts to the abstract.
- A classroom with developmental tasks prepared with a balance of differentiation and structure.
- Administration of district trimester assessments and state-standardized testing.