Philosophy and Vision: Montessori East employs Maria Montessori's holistic approach to education to foster intelligence, independence, joy and self-confidence in your child. With personal respect for each child and a sincere dedication to his or her potential, our AMS (American Montessori Society) certified teachers help establish a life-long love of learning and a sense of belonging in community. Love, leadership, practical life skills and academic growth are cornerstones of our school. Our multi-age classrooms encourage leadership, cooperation, community and respect for different levels and stages of learning. Montessori East's prepared environment allows the child's natural curiosity and innate talents to blossom at his or her own pace, making learning through fun possible and achieving without fatigue a daily experience. Child directed learning, developing personal focus and problem solving are all important aspects of Montessori East. Mission: "We must support as much as possible the child's desires for activity; not wait on him, but educate him to be independent." -Dr. Maria Montessori To provide an environment that encourages and entices the child to become self motivated to exhibit their own greatest learning potential while under the guidance of trained Montessori teachers. Montessori East is dedicated to creating a community that instills peace, courtesy respect and a love for learning. Our Day: Our school days are Monday through Friday and will, for the most part, coincide with Davidson County school inclement weather schedule unless notified by Montessori East. The school day is from 8:15am until 3:15pm. Before and aftercare is available for enrolled students from 7:30am until 5:30 pm, as is available. Please inquire at the school. The Curriculum: "The child should love everything he learns. Whatever is presented to him must be made beautiful and clear. Once this love has been kindled, all problems confronting the educationalist will disappear." -Dr. Maria Montessori- The Montessori classroom is prepared in such a way that the children work freely and independently after the teacher gives them the formal lessons. The mixed aged grouping encourages the children to teach and learn from each other. The teacher's role is one of the observer and guide and the children progress at their own pace. The environment is prepared to guide the learners toward a progression of skills. The uninterrupted work cycle is also an essential part in allowing the child to master each skill. The carefully prepared environment includes specially made materials for specified developmental skill progression. There are five major areas to the primary (3-6 year old) classroom environment: Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Math, and Culture which includes Science, Geography and Art. Each area indirectly establishes a base for proficiency in the main areas of traditional studies through real life, hands on exercises. Each child works at their own level/pace with the close guidance of the teacher. Their work is individualized to meet their needs and interests. Lessons are presented one-on-one or in small groups. Our teachers/guides are formally trained in with the American Montessori Society to ensure this curriculum is authentic and of the highest quality.