"such experience is not just play... it is the work he must do in order to grow up"
- Dr. Montessori
Frequently Asked Questions about Montessori
Are all Montessori schools the same?
No. There is no trademark protection on the name "Montessori," so schools vary widely in the types of programming and curriculum they offer.
How do I choose a Montessori School?
We encourage all our families to do their research and decide on a school that best meets the needs of their children and their family. Questions should always be answered warmly and succinctly. We encourage families to ask questions such as:
* "Is the school a member of a Montessori guiding organization, such as AMI or AMS?"
* "Do the faculty (directors) hold recognized Montessori credentials?"
* "Is a full complement of core Montessori materials available, as appropriate, in every classroom?"
* "Are appointments for observations readily available?"
* "Do the children seem genuinely happy to be there and actively engaged in their work?"
I have heard that Montessori children do whatever they want, whenever they want. Is this true?
No! It is true that an important element in the Montessori Method is to allow the children to follow their own interests and to take personal responsibility for their own education. But this freedom is always accompanied by the responsibility required for success, and accomplished within the boundaries established by the child's director. This freedom is meant to give students access to the ability to move at their own individual pace. Direction and re-direction are always available to those who need more guidance, although independence is continually encouraged.
If Montessori doesn't "grade" my child, how do I know how (s)he is doing?
We hold parent-director conferences twice a year. We also offer observation opportunities for you to more fully understand your child's classroom environment. Our faculty will partner with you in order to ensure that your child's academic, emotional and socialization needs are being met.
We offer numerous Parent Education events throughout the school year to provide you with a deeper understanding of the Montessori Method and how and what your child learns.
Do you have standardized testing, and how are the results used in the school?
We schedule the Iowa Basic Skills Test on an annual basis, beginning with the 3rd year elementary students. We provide our families with externally prepared scoring results and generally discuss the results with parents. We view these results as only one of the many tools we use to individually assist your child.
How do children do when they transfer to a more traditional setting?
Since children are individuals with unique talents and abilities, their performance is unique and hence, it really does depend on the individual child. As a whole, Montessori children are very flexible and generally adapt well to more traditional systems, once they accustom themselves to the new rules and the new environment. Communication between the parents, the students and the faculty often eases any transition issues the children experience. Our Adolescent classroom intentionally prepares them for the transition to a traditional high school.
I have other questions not addressed here. What do I do?
We encourage you to contact us at (815) 741- 4180. We will be happy to answer any additional questions you have.