What is “Montessori”?
The name Montessori usually refers to the educational method developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician. Dr. Montessori observed that all children were driven by inherent tendencies which expressed themselves particularly intensely at certain ages — for example: exploration, communication, movement, and a desire for self-perfection. She developed a plan of education that would respect and follow the child’s inner guide to development and work in harmony with the child’s own natural tendencies towards independence and learning.
Are all Montessori schools alike?
No. Although there are Montessori schools all over the world, all Montessori schools are not alike. Dr. Montessori’s vision for children spread so quickly that soon the name “Montessori” became part of the public domain and could not be given a copyright. Differences in the quality of teacher-training, school standards, and adherence to the Montessori philosophy all affect the quality of a Montessori school. Schools may be organized and governed very differently, and this too can affect what you see in the program itself. At Greenstone we have chosen to apply for recognition from the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). AMI was established in 1929 by Dr. Maria Montessori in order to preserve the integrity of her life’s work. We highly recommend that you schedule an observation in the classroom(s) at any school you are considering for your child in order to make sure it will be a good fit for your family.
What is an “AMI school?” What does that mean?
The AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) was founded by Dr. Maria Montessori to protect the integrity of her work. AMI member schools are required to have teachers who completed a very rigorous AMI training program; as well as complete sets of Montessori materials (which can only be purchased from two specific vendors), and a philosophical approach and program schedule consistent with what is given in the AMI teacher training programs. An AMI Certificate of Recognition offers credibility to the school’s status and confirms a solid support of Montessori principles and practice. AMI consultants regularly visit member schools to assure that standards are being met. It is our goal at Greenstone to receive these accreditations; and is working towards them. Currently all materials and staff are certified AMI.
What is the difference between Montessori and Traditional Educational Methods?
“Montessori emphasizes learning through all five senses, not just through listening, watching, or reading. Children in Montessori classes learn at their own, individual pace and according to their own choice of activities from hundreds of possibilities. Learning is an exciting process of discovery, leading to concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and a love of learning. Montessori classes place children in three-year age groups (3-6, 6-9, 9-12, and so on), forming communities in which the older children spontaneously share their knowledge with the younger ones. Montessori represents an entirely different approach to education.” (From the NAMTA website)
When do children begin in Montessori?
Most children begin Montessori school between the ages of 2 1/2 and 4, and stay through the end of their kindergarten year when they are 5 1/2 or 6 to complete the three-year cycle in the Children's House. The Montessori program is designed to work in harmony with the child’s natural developmental stages, building each year upon the previous competencies and successes. The children typically stay with the same teacher for the full 3 years, which allows the relationship between teacher and child to grow and deepen; this trust and understanding is an important part of a child’s emotional security and has a profound impact on her educational success. Each year in the classroom the child experiences a new role; first being the youngest and looking up to others for guidance; next being in the middle and being able to offer help and yet still receive help as well; and finally in the third year being the leaders of the classroom.
Is Montessori Religious?
Schools can choose to be religious based; however, the majority of Montessori schools are not. Montessori is a method of teaching, not a religion, created by Dr. Maria Montessori, from Italy. It has been around since the early 1900s and there are over 4000 known schools world-wide. Greenstone’s philosophy on religion in the classroom is to embrace all families and support all traditions in our community. Greenstone does not have any religious affiliations.
Are there any scholarship programs?
It is our goal to have socio-economic diversity at the school. We want families of all economics to be able attend. There are partial scholarships available based on financial needs. These scholarships and financial aide are being overseen by the non-profit organization, the Open Montessori Initiative. Kathleen Campos is the Executive Director. She can be contacted by phone at: 503-919-9820 or e-mail at kathleen_campos@montessori-omi.org.
