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     John E. Ford PK-8 -- Virtual School Expo Video

    What Makes Montessori Education Unique?

     

    The Whole-Child Approach
    The primary goal of a Montessori program is to help each child reach their full potential in all areas of life. Activities promote the development of social skills, emotional growth, and physical coordination as well as cognitive preparation for future intellectual academic endeavors. The holistic curriculum, under the direction of a specifically prepared teacher, allows the child to experience the joy of learning, the time to enjoy the process, and ensures experiences from which children create their knowledge.

    The Prepared Environment
    In order for self-directed learning to take place, the whole learning environment - classroom, materials, and social setting/atmosphere - must be supportive of the child. The teacher provides the necessary resources, including opportunities for children to function in a safe and positive environment. Together, the teacher and child form a relationship based on trust and respect that fosters self-confidence and a willingness to try new things.

    The Montessori Materials
    Dr. Montessori's observations of the kinds of things which children enjoy, and go back to repeatedly, lead her to design a number of multi-sensory, sequential, and self-correcting materials to facilitate learning.

    The Montessori Teacher
    The Montessori teacher (originally called a "directress") functions as the designer of the environment and resource person, as well as a role model, demonstrator, record keeper, and meticulous observer of each child's behavior and growth. The teacher facilitates learning. Extensive training is required for a full Montessori credential, including a minimum of college degree and a year's student teaching under supervision. Training is specialized for the age group with which a teacher will work (i.e. infant and toddler, primary, or elementary level).

     

     

     

    If you would like more information on this program please contact our Magnet Liaison, Shawna Leu, at 630-6540 or leus@duvalschools.org.