The Pursuit of Personal Interests The student who experiences Montessori education in the elementary years has the advantage of an education without boredom or discouragement. By pursuing individual interests, an enthusiasm for learning continues which is the key to becoming a lifelong learner.
Progression At Their Own Pace Each student progresses at his or her own pace in a Montessori classroom. Daily observations are noted by the Directress as to the use of specific materials. Each child is evaluated individually considering progress made, physical abilities, interests, motivation, etc. The classrooms provide an open-ended curriculum which encourages each student to advance as far as abilities allow in a non-competitive atmosphere. Parents are always invited to observe their child at work. Parent Conference Days are scheduled each semester to acquaint parents with their child's academic and social development. Elementary students receive two reports in addition to the comprehensive evaluation completed for all children at the end of the school year. Elementary students participate in national standardized achievement tests each spring, beginning in the 1st grade.
Image:
Life After Montessori Montessori education instills in a child the desire to learn and the child develops all the necessary skills for success. While this is an individual matter, in general the child who has wholesome attitudes and values, who has developed skills and habits essential for effective living, and who has a healthy and realistic understanding of him/herself, will have no difficulty adjusting to a new school. Teachers usually find the child with a Montessori background to be more cooperative, self-reliant and eager to learn. Montessori teachers feel a responsibility to help the child anticipate and be prepared for their new level of education.
