About Montessori
Maria Montessori was ahead of her time. Her core principles of effective learning is self-directed and calls for the development of the whole person prepare your child for our fast-changing world.
Montessori education offers a unique experience designed to help your child maximize their potential through the liberation of the human spirit. We provide a masterfully prepared environment purposefully designed to meet their unique developmental truths, led by Guides who use Scientific Observation to act as a dynamic link—putting the child in touch with exactly what they need at the optimal time to foster holistic, powerful learning.
Montessori Fosters Independence
In our school, young children learn that their independence is valued. We encourage free movement, choice within carefully crafted limits, and an environment where their voices are heard. We teach them practical life skills, such as cleaning and preparing food, that can be used in the classroom, home, and beyond. This emphasis on independence gives children a tremendous sense of empowerment. As children get older, they practice time management and other executive functioning skills.
Child Led
This begins by having teachers trained in the specific developmental stages of the children they work with. By honoring where children are in their growth, we create educational environments that perfectly suit their needs. We know that learning is not always linear, and that each individual child will need different challenges and supports throughout their time at our school.
Prepared Environment
Upon stepping into a Montessori classroom, one immediately sees the difference in our environments. We value natural materials and prefer natural lighting. Living things (both plants and animals) are present, as are low shelves that allow children to easily access their work. There are areas for children to work in a group or alone, and on the floor or in a chair. Materials are of high quality, inspiring the children who use them to make their work beautiful.
Outdoor Classroom
Nature is an integral part of our educational setting, making the outside environment a vital extension of the child's daily workspace. Within our classrooms, children act as independent researchers, caring for plants and animals and exploring museum-quality specimens—from ancient fossils to sparkling geodes. These tactile, hands-on studies in botany and zoology begin at the primary level, sparking curiosity and a personal connection to learning. We believe in bringing students into nature whenever possible, ensuring their most "normalized" self is revealed through firsthand discovery in the natural world.
We Value Kindness and Peace
Our students develop as empathetic and respectful peers within a collaborative, family-style environment. As global citizens, they explore world geography and diverse traditions, building a foundation for spiritual integrity and a personal connection to the human family. We prioritize Grace and Courtesy, teaching conflict resolution to support the child’s journey toward normalization and spontaneous self-discipline. We believe that peace and kindness are the liberation of the human spirit and the essential foundation for impactful lives.
We Value Formative Assessment
Assessment is derived from a Latin word meaning "to sit beside." In our classrooms, that is exactly what we do. Our Guides practice Scientific Observation, acting as Architects of the Environment who gather data by sitting beside the child. Through the three-period lesson, a Montessori hallmark, we measure understanding and Pursuit of Mastery in real-time. By observing human tendencies and developmental truths, we target areas where children need more challenge or support. This allows teaching to be adjusted in the moment, ensuring every purposeful Learner is connected to the work they need at the optimal time.
What exactly is Montessori education?
At its core, it is a way of being with children that allows for the liberation of the human spirit, helping each child develop into the person they are destined to be. Just as you ensure your home is loving and safe, we work diligently to provide a masterfully prepared environment where a purposeful Learner meets a visionary Guide. By honoring developmental truths and fostering a respectful, family-style community, we ensure your child’s needs are met with unwavering faith at every step of their journey toward an impactful life.
“We are so happy that we chose MCSH for our youngest. The caring teachers and warm environment really helped him to blossom.”
- Julie H., former parent
If you think your child would thrive in a Montessori environment, contact us to schedule a tour. We would love for you to visit our school and learn more.