Elementary Program
Keeping the Joy of Learning Alive
In our elementary program, our children continue to develop physical and mental independence and the ability to manage the requirements of daily life with grace, confidence, and effectiveness. We know that all children are born naturally curious with the spontaneous joy for learning. Our staff is dedicated to nurture these traits or rekindle them in hopes that these qualities will last a lifetime.
Our Montessori elementary program has unusual substance and depth: it is enriching and challenging and designed to provide:
· A challenging learning environment carefully prepared to stimulate the students’ curiosity and to support their total intellectual development based on the Montessori Method of learning and the latest brain research.
· A hands-on, experiential approach to learning that enables the student to move from simple to complex tasks, from concrete to abstract whether it be in the area of math, science, language, etc.
· Systematic group and individual guidance throughout the learning process involving parents, students, and teachers.
· Experiences which encourage the children to take as much responsibility for their own learning as they are able at any time.
· Experiences which develop a high level of self-discipline.
· Help with the "how to learn" not just "what to learn."
· Educators who believe each student has special talents that need to be uncovered and nurtured.
· Enrichment activities such as overnight camping trips, history excursions, cultural programs, environmental awareness camps that extend our four walls into the larger community.
· Educators who believe teaching the "whole" child also involves nurturing their emotional, moral, and spiritual development. Compassion and contribution are two qualities we try to cultivate. All elementary students are involved in weekly community service projects.
· A mini-democratic community where disagreements are faced and dealt with as openly and honestly as possible.
The curriculum covers all areas found in most school settings: reading, language arts, math, science, social studies, foreign language, music, fibers, art, and physical education. Our Montessori students leave our environment with a positive self-image and with the sense of being capable learners and contributors coupled with an optimistic vision for their own future.
Lower Elementary 1 Directress: lthorpe@msasc.org
Lower Elementary 2 Directress: jheller@msasc.org