The Elementary I program (equivalent of grades 1, 2 and 3) was added in 1998 to allow students to continue with the Montessori method of education throughout their elementary school years. As the elementary-aged children gradually move from the concrete learning pathways of preschool to the more abstract ones of the elementary, Montessori meets their developmental needs each step of the way.

In the Montessori Elementary Programs, the child’s own questions provide the basis for exploration of the world. Because these questions are heeded and nurtured, the child really connects with knowledge. Subject matter is made relevant to the child’s personal quest, providing inner motivation. A Montessori elementary education does not give the child a collection of trivial facts but rather bestows a vision of interrelated knowledge and love of learning.

The “cosmic” perspective does not mean, however, that Montessori elementary ignores the “basics” of reading, writing, and arithmetic. During the preschool years, the Montessori child has already acquired a beginning literacy of letters, numbers, and writing. In the elementary years, these basic skills are polished in the meaningful context of a “big picture.” These programs are from 8:30 A.M.–3:00 P.M. A ratio of ten students per teacher is maintained.

Learn more about the Elementary curriculum.