The Montessori philosophy was developed by Italian educator and physician, Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s.
This educational approach is child-centered and based on scientific observations of the child that follow the child's development.
The classroom materials are specifically designed and made out of real, natural material. They are not toys, and each one has a specific purpose. These materials are self-directed, promote independence, and involve the child's senses, which intrigues the child to learn.
The curriculum areas in the classroom are connected and are specifically ordered to promote success and purposeful problem-solving. These curriculums include practical life, sensorial, math, language, history, science, and geography. Art, music, and physical activity are also incorporated into the environment.
The school builds from Montessori’s connection to nature and mindfulness to make it a focus of specific lessons and experiences.
GRM offers two multi-age Montessori classrooms; Children's House and Elementary 1. The Children's House classroom consists of three and four-year-old preschoolers and kindergartners. The Elementary 1 classroom includes first, second, and third graders.
There are many benefits of multi-age classrooms. Students form strong relationships with their peers and teachers, learn from each other, and are motivated to try new lessons they see older students completing.
The classroom is filled with beauty, natural light, real materials, and incorporates nature. The environment reflects various cultures, families, and students. It is furnished with purposeful materials and furniture that are all developmentally and size appropriate to promote independence.
The culture of the classroom is one that celebrates diversity. It teaches peace, respect, responsibility, and supports a connection with the local and local community.
A child's life long love for learning begins in the Montessori environment. The child receives freedom to explore, to follow their intrinsic motivation, and have an individualized educational experience.
GRM utilizes Montessori child-centered pedagogy that follows the development of the child. We provide students with lessons in small groups or individually. Lessons are chosen based on the specific skills each student is working on, not by age or grade.
The schedule each day includes an uninterrupted work period. During this three-hour period, students explore the works, or materials, that are interesting to them, socialize with others, move freely, and solve problems. These experiences help students learn to self-regulate and be independent while the teacher observes. Teachers also guide students through works and lessons that build the skills necessary to act freely and gracefully.