"Education is the help we give to life so that it may develop in the greatness of its powers." Dr. Maria Montessori
The following text is available as a brochure in the school office. Also see What is Montessori Education
Natural Desire to Learn
The Montessori method believes children are motivated from within by a natural curiosity and love for knowledge. The goal of early education, therefore, is not to fill children with facts from pre-selected courses or study, but rather to cultivate their own natural desire to learn.As a result, Montessori children concentrate with enthusiasm and achieve a real and profound understanding of their world, In this way, knowledge is achieved in a way that is as timeless as human nature itself. As children grow intellectually, they mature emotionally. They become harmonious in movement, independent in in work, and honest and helpful with one another.
Prime Elements of Character Development
Though much as been said about the academic achievement of Montessori children, the true value lies in the self-discipline, self-mastery and the love of learning that our children achieve. Our approach to your child's education is to develop the prime elements of character such as concentration and independence in an atmosphere of respect and cooperation.
The Prepared Environment
From the moment your enter a Montessori classroom, you are in no ordinary learning environment. Each classroom is designed to incorporate six basic components of the Montessori method--they embody concepts of freedom, beauty and atmosphere, the Montessori teaching materials, and the development of class community.
In this carefully prepared, nourishing place, children are empowered to meet their need for self-construction and the reveal the essence of their personality and growth patterns. Observe as children learn from one another and work with one another. They discover learning as enjoyment and become avid learners, the natural result of their desire for answers and their passions for knowledge.
Highly Trained Specialized Faculty
Since Montessori focuses on developing the potential of each child, it relies on specially trained teachers and unique teaching materials. McMinnville Montessori School proudly offers the highest levels of expertise to guide our students. Our faculty, in addition to their undergraduate studies, have completed intensive, rigorous training to specialize in the Montessori method. Each faculty member has been awarded either AMI or NCME Certification--the standards of excellence for Montessori educators.
Each Child Taught Individually
At the heart of a Montessori education is the objective to grow and develop a positive self-concept within each child. Each child is taught individually and at their own level of development. In this way, the full potential of a child can be realized an encouraged.
Children are invited into a world of exploration and discovery. Each child progresses at their own pace. This means that fast learners are not held back and slower learners are not frustrated. Teachers are the vital link in the classroom environment. Children are welcomed to discover their own capabilities through the practical, self-correcting Montessori materials. They learn how to frame questions and how to seek answers.
Prepared for the Future
Like other children, Montessori children will face many challenges in the future, but they will have a unique advantage. Their success will not depend simply on what they have been taught by others. Instead, they can embrace their foundation of self-determination as their world presents them with endless new opportunities for life-long learning.
Primary (3-6 years)
A Child's day is filled with rich and varied curriculum which embodies the Montessori philosophy of education. Learning unfolds for each child in four areas of study: Practical Life, Sensorial, Language and Mathematics.
Beyond this core, a rich supplement of natural and physical sciences, cultural studies, fine arts, perceptual motor function training, and foreign language enrich the child's daily life and spark interest for their future studies.
Elementary (6-12)
After seeing the results of our early education program, many Montessori families choose to continue their child's education in our Elementary program. The universe is given to the children during these Montessori years. Our curriculum inspires the students by providing a vision of the universe and our place in it.
Because they have developed basic social and academic skills during their primary years, the children are prepared for the academic depths beyond the usual learning objective of typical elementary students. They often develop far beyond their peers attending other schools.
Confidence and Competence
Supported and nurtured in our prepared classrooms, Montessori children are not afraid of failure and learn from their mistakes. This increases their confidence as they learn to embrace self-reflection--a key to success in virtually all areas of life.
Creativity, and a Strong Sense of Self
Montessori students traditionally become confident in expressing their own ideas and creativity. They recognize the value of their own work, respect the creative process of others, and are willing to share their ideas regardless of the risk of rejection. They realize a great deal of satisfaction in self-expression and tend to become self-directed, composed and morally independent.
Social Responsibility
Montessori children tend to be very sensitive to the rights and needs of others. They are more willing to make a positive contribution to their community and the world around them. They are often exceptionally compassionate, empathetic and sensitive to the natural world and the human condition.
Internalized Ground Rules and the Ability to Work Without External Authority
Montessori children are normally comfortable with ground rules that set the boundaries for their interactions within the school community. Because these ground rules become internalized, they normally learn to behave appropriately whether or not teachers are present. This leads to a strong sense of self-determination and accountability.
Academic Preparation
Montessori prepares students both for higher education and for life. They attain skills that allow them to become independent thinkers and life-long learners.
Intrinsic Motivation
The innate desire to learn drives Montessori children to engage in life activities and pursue knowledge for enjoyment and satisfaction.
Schedule Your Visit Today! (503) 434-5081
Of course, the most impressive testimonies for McMinnville Montessori School are the children themselves. Schedule your tour today and discover the difference Montessori is making in children's lives.