Facts

The Montessori Magnet School is one of three magnet schools in the city of Albany, NY, part of the Albany City School District and is a public school. Our school serves about 300 students in grades Pre-K through 5. Our staff of teachers and non-instructional personnel totals about 50. The school aims to create a community of learning through discovery, incorporating the Montessori educational philosophy that students grow at their own pace by learning through all five senses.

Our school first opened its doors in September 1993 and the majority of our staff has been with our school for most, if not all, of our history. We are located in a state-of-the-art building (2005) specifically built for the needs of MMS. The school draws from a diverse student population from the city of Albany and entrance is by lottery application. 

Philosophy

Dedicated to a multiple intelligence approach, our school allows each student to achieve his or her best in a supportive and caring environment. Our approach emphasizes the unique philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952):

·        a natural love of learning

·        independence

·        manners

·        teamwork

·        respect for others

·        friendship

·        community involvement

·        resourcefulness

·        creativity

·        good nutrition

As a public school, we adhere to the learning standards of New York State and seek to shape an instructional program that will position students for success. In addition, we employ the Core Curriculum of the City School District of Albany, as well as the district’s teaching materials. We then correlate these materials to the Montessori method and philosophy. The result is a high quality instructional program.

Awards, honors and distinctions

• Magnet School
• NYS Education Department recognition as a rapidly improving school in state assessments
• Trained faculty in the Montessori Method

What makes our school special?

• Montessori theme
• High quality teaching force
• High level of parent involvement
• Partnerships with area colleges and museums
• Newly constructed facility (2005)
• Innovative teaching strategies modeled via the National Urban Alliance
• Teaching Assistants in Pre-K through Grade 4 classrooms
• Transportation to/from school to those eligible (living at least 1.5 miles from school, K through grade 5)
• Partnership with Columbia University/Teachers College Writing Program
• Focus on both practical and ‘process’ math

How are we preparing our kids for success?

• High quality academic program
• Newly implemented Harcourt reading series
• Title I AIS offerings for eligible students
• Enrichment programs like Park Playhouse, Chess Club, Basketball Team
• SED recognition (2007) as a ‘rapidly improving/achievement gap closing school’
• Computer lab instruction
• Wellness program
• Well-equipped library program

What kinds of parent support and resources does our school provide?

• A social worker accessible to families
• A monthly newsletter
• Frequent events planned by the MCC (the parent community)
• A building leadership team focused on faculty, staff, parent collaboration to improve both academics and professional learning opportunities
• Information about local agencies that assist parents with issues that pertain to their child 

Principal

 Kenneth Lein has been the Principal of MMS since 2008.

 Staff

 Approximately 25 teachers hold full-time teaching positions at our school. In addition, part-time subject matter specialists instruct our students in speech, art, music, social work services, library, etc. Homeroom teachers at the Pre-K to Grade 5 level have earned the prestigious Montessori teaching credential. Teaching assistants assist in all Pre-K to Grade 4 homerooms and in our special education programs.