Developing lifelong learners in a specially prepared environment
Milwaukee Public Schools offers the nation’s largest collection of public Montessori schools.
The Montessori method is based on the research of Italian physician and educator Maria Montessori (1870-1952), who developed the education philosophy after scientifically observing children in learning environments. Dr. Montessori found that children have the effortless ability to absorb knowledge from their surroundings and develop confidence by teaching themselves.
She developed education plans based on the natural behavior of a child untouched by adult commands, classroom competition, or regimented schedules. Dr. Montessori’s philosophy remains the foundation of an astounding education practice today.
A Montessori education is developed to foster lifelong learners and self-sufficient problem solvers. Classrooms exhibit distinctive characteristics, including multi-graded students and flexible schedules that allow students blocks of uninterrupted time to pursue their own educational interests.
Learning takes place through the senses as students manipulate materials to enhance concentration and coordination while they interact with peers. Teachers balance freedom and structure, guiding students along in self-discovery and helping them create their own individual learning plan.
Classroom materials and activities are carefully designed to develop physical, intellectual, creative, and social independence. A Montessori teacher considers each student as a whole, recognizing that a student’s physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being is intricately involved in the learning process. Classroom atmospheres encourage respect for the self and others, social support, cooperative learning, and peer-to-peer teaching.
Montessori teachers place great focus on developing a partnership with families. The family plays an important role in student growth and development, and Montessori teachers and staff aim for students to consider self-discovery as an interactive activity that continues within the home alongside family members. A Montessori education encourages families to help young learners realize their own unique talents and interests while they develop a healthy curiosity about the world.
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Learn more about Montessori in MPS
Montessori classrooms for children 3-12 are self-contained and multi-age leveled. Children usually stay with the same teacher for three years. The older children in each level are able to help the younger ones while reinforcing their own learning and developing leadership skills.
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Dr. Montessori believed that education should fit the child's stage of development. The Montessori curriculum follows a definite plan that takes into account these sensitivities and characteristics.
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View the list of all MPS Montessori schools in Milwaukee. Learn more about the programs offered at each school.
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Parents, as the primary educators of their children, are an essential part of the Montessori program. Report cards and parent conferences are one aspect of the interchange between home and school.
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Montessori teachers are taught to observe carefully and how to give just the right amount of help. They give new lessons when the children are ready for them.
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Children, from birth on, want to learn. Children at different stages of development are drawn to different things. A child needs help in making sense out of all the aspects of the world. Providing that help is the basis of the Montessori method of education.
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