All programs are offered Monday through Friday, from the end of August to the beginning of June.
Adolescent Program
For children ages 12 through 15 who have completed the Montessori elementary program.
9:00 am - 3:00 pm
The adolescent program provides a natural continuation of the primary and elementary approach which recognizes the specific needs and characteristics of the adolescent. The purpose of the program is to allow the adolescent an avenue to explore the various aspects of society and the different roles within it through a holistic method of education.
Adolescent Program Goals:
Preparation for adult life - The adolescent is in the process of becoming an adult and needs experience taking on adult roles. Adolescents begin to answer the questions of "who am I?" and "where do I fit in the world?" The adolescent program recognizes the need for students to form relationships with reassuring and informed adult specialists who like and respect them, and who serve as role models and advisors.
Provide a safe environment for learning - A key component of providing a safe adolescent environment is the presence of a constant adult director who maintains the integrity of the class. Our adolescent director oversees all adult interactions, in-class and out-of-class experiences, as well as the treatment of students toward one another and others in the community. When adolescents feel safe and gain confidence, they are able to remove barriers, which allows them to recognize their true talents and potential.
Provide the adolescent with intellectual and physical work opportunities - The integration of knowledge obtained in elementary on paper is put into practice in society at the adolescent level. Adolescents are taught to place different disciplines into the larger world and connect them to one another. Students study the human experience throughout time and how it connects with different areas of study (algebra, history, science, capitalism, etc.) The Montessori approach is to show that all disciplines are connected. In addition, Adolescents are provided with opportunities to do meaningful physical work around the school, at Nature's Classroom and at various community service locations throughout the year.
Microeconomy - Through involvement in different business opportunities, students learn valuable lessons about real life problems, conflict resolution and exploring the process of product and exchange. Working within a business, students learn there are practical consequences for their actions.
Visit our adolescent's website at www.jmsadolescents.org to learn more.
