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How does Montessori work? A Montessori teacher carefully sets up a classroom to stimulate a child's love of learning new things. This "prepared environment" offers both structure and freedom for students. Structure comes from the order of the classroom; students are taught how to use the educational materials while showing respect for their peers. Teachers create structured work plans that ensure students master the curriculum while learning time management skills. Freedom comes from responsibility. Following the initial Kindergarten year, BASD Montessori classrooms are designed for three- year cycles (1st through 3rd grades are together, and 4 th through 6th grades are together), providing continuity to both students and teachers. Younger students challenge themselves after observing the interesting works of the older children. Older children act as mentors to younger students. Check out our website at: http://www.basd.k12.wi.us/montk6program.cfm Why should I want Montessori for my child? What is Montessori? Frequently Asked Questions? Montessori (pronounced: MON TI SOAR REE) is an educational philosophy created by Dr. Maria Montessori, the first female doctor in Rome, Italy. Dr. Montessori initially worked with children in her medical practice and in 1906 developed a new method of education. Using extensive observations of children, Dr. Montessori created a system and materials based on a child’s innate desire to learn. Today, thousands of Montessori schools operate under a tuition-based system. Burlington Area School District (BASD) offers a public Montessori program for the same cost of our traditional classrooms in the school district. While both traditional and Montessori methods have much to offer our students, Montessori education takes a different approach to teaching the same material. Children have opportunities to learn by exploring topics that capture their interest/imagination and share them with their classmates. Montessori classes incorporate art, music, creative drama and writing throughout the curriculum. This develops a passion for learning in children. There is also a strong emphasis on international and multi-cultural education — developing a respect for diversity and a global perspective. Montessori students learn math in a hands-on manner. Materials are placed around the room for students to access. How does BASD offer a public Montessori program? In 1998, the BASD school board started offering parents of elementary students a choice of either traditional or Montessori education. Parents and students in Burlington (and surrounding areas) are fortunate to have this choice, which does not cost BASD any more money per student than a traditional classroom. BASD is one of only a handful of public school systems in the state to offer this option. • Are the BASD teachers trained in Montessori education? YES! Teachers receive two additional years of Montessori training at MMTTC, an AMS accredited training program. • What if my child is already registered for the traditional public school program? For 4K or kindergartener students this fall: Please submit the BASD application form by calling BASD at (262) 763-0210 or stop by at 100 N. Kane Street, Burlington. If your child is in other grades, please contact the school principal. • Why would Montessori be right for my child? Montessori is a different approach to education, with an emphasis on learning how to learn: observing life, listening, looking for patterns, making connections and reflecting on how things fit together and work. Your child will master the core curriculum: reading, writing and mathematics. Montessori is a program that meets state and national standards, but not using the same materials and methods found in a traditional setting. We hope this brochure answered your questions or encouraged you to learn more about Montessori! BASD Parent Montessori Group
