6 Creative Schools Providing Montessori Education

Historically, teachers have taught using a lecture-based method, where students remain seated at desks for the majority of the day. However, many educators have realized that verbal lessons do not successfully engage all pupils, and that some children only comprehend a minimal amount of course material. Student-driven learning has been presented as a possible solution to mending the achievement gap between peers and ensuring all young scholars understand and enjoy classes. Here, in no particular order, are schools that provide self-discovery in an activity-based environment.

Coming in at #1 is the Montessori School of Bowling Green, which operates as an independent, non-profit institution in Bowling Green, Ohio. Founded in 1980, the establishment is governed by a volunteer board of directors composed of community members and former and current parents. Its nurturing atmosphere is designed to foster mutual respect, personal responsibility, and a passion for knowledge. There are programs for multiple ages, from toddlerhood through eighth grade.

The organization's hands-on, authentic approach aspires to make attendees excited and motivated to explore their surroundings. Curricula include art, music, P.E., foreign languages, and cultural sciences, as well as a tailored math and native language plan, where capabilities are individually assessed. With a diverse student body, the Montessori School of Bowling Green aims to replicate a global society while challenging entrants to be successful.

In the #2 spot is India's City Montessori School. It has 18 campuses across Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, and in 2013, Guinness World Records certified the School as the largest in a city. Founded by Doctors Jagdish and Bharti Gandhi, the institution's motto is "Jai Jagat," which translates to "Victory to the World." The phrase is based on the ancient wisdom of Vasudhaiv Kutumbkam, and inspired by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and social reformer Sant Vinobha Bhave.

Offering progressive lessons that pursue human values, character growth, and peace studies, the School focuses on all-around development. Multiple classes and events are available such as art, music, dance, drama, sports, debating, model United Nations, international exchange with students abroad, and the Junior Youth Empowerment Programme. In 2002, City Montessori School was awarded the UNESCO Prize for Peace Education for fostering serenity and tolerance.

At #3 is Barrie School, located in Silver Spring, Maryland. Its mission is to empower individuals to expand their intellectual abilities, enhance their talents, and find passions to make a positive impact on society. Montessori programs and classes are offered for infants and toddlers, as well as for preschool through fifth grade. Instruction for grades six through twelve is performed using a project-based method.

Barrie states that its curriculum is crafted using the best practices found in private education systems. The atmosphere aims at supporting all facets of maturation: academic, social, athletic, and artistic. Jon Kidder, the Head of School, believes that instructing can be transformative, and young scholars should not have to choose between working hard at rigorous studies and experiencing the joy of learning.

Lalaji Memorial Omega International School, often referred to as Omega, is in the #4 spot. Created in 2005 by Shri Parthasarathi Rajagopalachari, this establishment in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India provides courses for national and international academic tracks. Rajagopalachari's vision is to produce young ladies and men who are balanced, with both the soul and the body functioning in unison; the former guides the latter in its activities, and the mind operates under the guidance of the soul.

Omega's motto is "Saha Veeryam Karavaavahai," or "Let's Endeavor Together." The institution's goal is to help others discover their inner potential and driving passion, as well as to assist and mentor them on the path to their realization. The School strives to use value-based spiritual academics and life-skills activities, instilling core values and abilities that students will need to go into the world as grounded and balanced individuals.

Coming in at #5 is Valencia Montessori School. Situated in the eponymous Spanish city, and offering classes for those from infancy to twelve years of age, Valencia pursues a multicultural, Montessori experience that is consistent with the common core curriculum Americans utilize. Considerable emphasis is placed on interconnection between different areas of study. Founder Sonia Mocholi asserts that it is not just a school, but rather a collective force, a cosmic vortex for those seeking out education, community, and a conscious future.

Classrooms are designed to encourage communication between peers and instructors as desired. The goal is to allow children to identify and attain learning strategies that last a lifetime. Infants and toddlers are introduced to the Montessori practice, where they begin to acquire independence through self-help tactics. Between ages three and six, students are taught small ideas that gradually widen into larger concepts. Elementary pupils are immediately introduced to broad notions, and then shown how more precise details fit into the framework.

Finally, at #6 is Lake Mary Montessori Academy, which offers private preschool, kindergarten, and elementary education in Lake Mary, Florida. The institution seeks to inspire a passion for excellence, nurture curiosity, creativity, and imagination, and awaken the human spirit. It envisions a world that can finally reside in peace, an interdependent global community, and a place where all are respected.

Teaching children to establish strong work habits, the school encourages students to be driven by internal motivation, rather than reacting to external factors. Lessons comprise practical life and sensorial exercises, as well as mathematics, reading comprehension, spelling, speech, geography, cultural awareness, creative movement, and more.