January 2026 Edition

Montessori Moment from Ms. Rachel

Why Montessori?

“Joy, feeling one's own value, being appreciated and loved by others, feeling useful and capable of production are all factors of enormous value for the human soul.”— Maria Montessori

Throughout my career in Montessori education, I have often been asked the question, “Why Montessori?”  This week, the answer came to me in an unexpected moment.

On days when my schedule is packed, I often begin my morning by stepping into a primary classroom to soak in some peace before the craziness of the day begins. The teachers have come to expect me to simply show up for a few minutes, standing quietly in the background to observe.

As I stood in a primary room one morning, I was struck by all the “intangibles” that were somehow so tangible. I saw children concentrating so deeply on meaningful work that they didn’t even notice my presence. I observed internalized self-regulation as they walked carefully around others’ work, spoke in soft voices, and waited patiently for a teacher’s help. I witnessed self-direction and a profound sense of order as they chose work independently, used it purposefully, and returned it to its proper place. I saw care, respect, and kindness as they helped one another and worked cooperatively.

So, I’m going to answer the question “Why Montessori?” with a few questions of my own. Why wouldn’t you want your child in an environment that nurtures these intangibles—qualities so essential for future success? Why wouldn’t you want your child in a classroom intentionally designed to meet their developmental needs? Why wouldn’t you choose an educational approach that supports the whole child: intellectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual?  For me, the answer is clear: Montessori matters because it cultivates not only capable learners, but grounded, confident, and compassionate human beings. 

Level Highlight-Focus on Primary

As we begin the second half of the school year, we’d like to revisit two foundational principles of learning in the Primary classroom: order and concentration.

Everything in the Primary classroom has a clear place and purpose. Materials are thoughtfully arranged from simple to complex, and routines and procedures are followed consistently. This external order helps young children feel secure in their environment. In turn, it supports the development of internal order—the ability to organize their thoughts, actions, and behaviors.

Concentration is highly valued and occurs when a child deeply focuses on a task they have freely chosen. During the work cycle, children work without interruptions, often for extended periods of time. Hands-on materials, freedom of choice, and appropriately challenging work allow children to enter deep concentration. Through this process, children build independence, self-discipline, and a genuine love of learning.

Order creates the calm, predictable environment children need, and concentration is the natural result—leading to deep, meaningful engagement with their work.

Assessments

All i-Ready and MAP winter assessment reports went home to parents this past week. Please contact your child's teacher if you have any questions or concerns.

Important Dates

Jan. 7 -  School Choice Application Opens (12 PM)
Jan. 12 - Virtual PTO Meeting (6:30 PM)
Jan. 14 - Deadline for Snack Cart Drop-off (for staff and students)
Jan. 15 - School Tour for Prospective Parents  (1-2 PM)
Jan. 19 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Schools are closed)
Jan. 20 - No Place for Hate meeting  (3:45-4:30)
Jan. 26 - Spirit Night at Ireland's Own (5-9 PM)
Jan. 29 - School Tour for Prospective Parents  (9-10 AM)
Feb. 5 - School Tour for Prospective Parents  (9-10 AM)
Feb. 12 - School Choice Application Closes (12 PM)
Feb. 13 - Early Release (1:30 Dismissal)
Feb. 16 - Presidents Day (Schools are closed)
Feb. 20 - CHAMP Award Nomination Deadline

Important Links

Daily Transportation Change Form 

School Choice Application

MCS Tour Information

RevTrak  - School Store

Snack Cart

CHAMP Award Nomination Form