Our School > About Montessori

About Montessori

Almost all toddlers do it. They hold on to a toy or a serving spoon or a ketchup bottle and say, “I do it.” There is an innate desire in all of us to contribute, learn, and do and, in its simplest form, this is the foundation of the Montessori method.

Over 100 years ago, Dr. Maria Montessori observed that children learn best by doing. Her extensive and exacting research produced a teaching method which matches teaching styles to the intellectual, emotional, and social development of children. Modern research, found in Angeline Stall Lillard’s “Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius,” has validated Maria Montessori’s method. And it is an amazing method to watch.

At The Montessori School of Raleigh, we remain true to this philosophy and provide

  • multi-age and cross-grade groupings of children in 3-year developmental cycles.
  • specially designed sensorial materials in each classroom.
  • experienced, certified directors (teachers) who have studied and interned to teach children of specific age groups (e.g., age 6-9 instead of the broad K-8th grade).
  • rigorous requirements for all faculty members who, regardless of the age they teach, must meet the same level of education. Likewise all faculty are on the same salary scale.
  • curriculum which doesn’t stop with state required benchmarks.
  • student led peace lessons, from toddler through middle school, which promote community, conflict resolution, problem solving, honesty, care, and respect.
  • the fundamental belief in the goodness and giftedness of each child.

The results are amazing. Students leave The Montessori School of Raleigh with a strong academic background and a quickened curiosity. They are confident individuals ready to take their place in the community.

I learn from my teacher, and sometimes I learn from myself.
—Children's House Student

Recommended Resources