What is Montessori?
Montessori is a philosophy of education with the fundamental tenet that a child learns best within a social environment that supports each individual’s unique development. Dr. Maria Montessori, creator of “The Montessori Method of Education”, based this new education on her scientific observations of young children's behavior. As the first woman physician to graduate from the University of Rome, Dr. Montessori became involved with education while treating children labeled as retarded.
In 1907 she was invited to open a child-care center for desperately poor families in the San Lorenzo slums of Rome. She called it a “Children’s House”, and based the program on her observations that young children learn best in a homelike setting, filled with developmentally appropriate materials that provide experiences contributing to the growth of self-motivated, independent learners.
Dr. Montessori designed materials and techniques for self-contained hands-on areas of the classroom. Practical life, sensorial, math, language and geography materials are all within easy reach and invite exploration. A child may work alone or ask another child to share in a project, read a book, or have a snack. Within the environment a sense of community develops, based on respect for learning and for one another.
Mission Statement
American Montessori Leadership Academy is an early childhood program that fosters independence, self-esteem and a lifetime love of learning. Our goal is to provide a healthy, safe, nurturing environment in which your child can learn and grow.
Faith Statement
We strive to provide an enriched learning environment through the Montessori philosophy in an environment based on Christian Principles and Character formation.
Goals and Objectives
The primary goal of a Montessori program is to help each child reach full potential in all areas of life. Our activities promote the development of social skills, emotional growth and physical coordination as well as cognitive preparation. American Montessori Leadership Academy will provide a carefully planned, stimulating environment, in which children can play and learn. Our specific goals and objectives are as follows:
1. To develop a positive attitude toward school and learning.
2. To develop high self-esteem.
3. To build concentration for lifelong study skills.
4. To develop and foster an abiding curiosity.
5. To develop initiative and persistence.
6. To foster inner discipline and a sense of order.
7. To develop sensory-motor skills in order to sharpen the ability to discriminate and judge.
8. To develop socially acceptable behavior.