Have you ever noticed that no two Montessori schools are ever quite the same?
That’s because Montessori is a method of teaching, not a governing body or brand that regulates how schools should operate. Montessori is a way of learning, exploring, and discovering, a unique way of teaching inspired by Dr. Maria Montessori’s pillars of self-reliance, expression, and community.
However, when it comes to a Montessori education, nothing should be more of a make-or-break factor than its affiliation.
Affiliation is so often either an afterthought or an unfamiliar concept, but it should actually be top of mind for parents searching for the right Montessori school for their child. Being full-affiliated by a well-established Montessori organization ensures that teachers and instructors have gone through rigorous education and training to become certified to teach. Affiliation is more than a frame on the wall — it’s a mark of professional integrity, a way of showcasing each teacher’s Montessori credentials appropriate for each age group (0-3, 3-6, 6-9, 9-12, and 12-18). It’s the hallmark of understanding, how teachers prove they can speak each child’s “language” and the way we ensure that each teacher understands the critical physical, emotional, and intellectual needs of each age group.
Some of the most important affiliating organizations include:
- American Montessori Society (AMS)
- Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)
- The International Montessori Council
Chesapeake Montessori School is fully affiliated by the American Montessori Society, and all of our lead teachers have Montessori credentials from MACTE-accredited teacher education programs and teach at their level of certification.
Before enrolling your child in a Montessori school, be sure to ask for each teacher’s credentials and the programs they’ve completed. If you see the letters ‘AMI’ and ‘AMS’, you’ll know that your child’s teacher is in a great position to help them learn and grow in the years ahead.
“Our daughter, Marcelina, chose to focus on her Greek and Latin skills this year. Instead of testing or teaching to a typical syllabus, Ms. Aliceyn observes when Marcelina is hungry for more – and offers her new words, phrases, and work as soon as she’s ready to meet a new milestone.” (Parent: Shirley Bergstrom / Student: Marcelina Bergstrom)
Our school is proud to stand up for a unified voice for the advancement of the Virginia Montessori community. Learn more about what this means at the Virginia Montessori Association.
Next week, we’ll be sharing how different age groups interact within our school and learn from one another. Until then, please feel welcome to contact us with any questions you have.
