What is Montessori?

The Montessori philosophy is based upon mutual respect and belief in the child. The basic aim of the Montessori approach is to cultivate the natural curiosity and delight in discovery that is present in all children.

Within each carefully prepared classroom environment, children are able to explore and learn with all of their senses as they acquire the confidence and motivation they need to fulfill their greatest potential. Specially trained Montessori teachers present hands-on educational materials that are specifically designed to support children's development, build on their interests and nurture their enthusiasm.

Our school community is a place where all children are valued as individuals. We believe that each child has a diverse mix of feelings, ideas and interests that deserve to be honored. By respecting and nurturing the uniqueness of each child we strive to build a foundation for a lifetime of creative learning and living.

"The objects surrounding the child should look solid and attractive to him, and the 'house of the child' should be lovely and pleasant in all its particulars….It is almost possible to say that there is a mathematical relationship between the beauty of his surroundings and the activity of the child."  - M. Montessori

A 1992 study showed that the Montessori environment and teachers fostered significantly higher levels of independence, initiative, and self-regulatory behavior. The Montessori children initiated more social interaction and employed more varied approaches to problem solving and task completion. Overall the children seemed more highly motivated in all aspects of their school experiences.

The Montessori program has produced successful performance outcomes for students. Students from our program make successful transitions to local private, parochial and public schools.