In 1989, a pre-kindergarten program was instituted at
St. Bartholomew School. The program is based on the
Montessori philosophy which integrates academics with
practical life experiences for the child-learner.
Children three (3) years of age or older on/before
September 1st are eligible for enrollment in the program
on a space-available basis.
The program is staffed by a full-time Montessori teacher and an aide for each classroom of 20 students. This is not a day-care program, but a school-based program working on developing each child's physical, social, academic skills. Each Montessori class operates on the principles of freedom within limits. Every program has its set of ground rules which differs from age to age, but is always based on core Montessori beliefs---respect for each other and for the environment.
Children are free to work at their own pace with materials they have chosen, either alone or with others. The teacher relies on her observations of the children to determine which new activities and materials she may introduce to an individual child or to a small/large group. The aim is to encourage active, self-directed learning and to strike a balance of individual mastery with small group collaboration with the whole group community.
The age span (3-5 years of age) in each class provides a
family-like grouping where learning can take place naturally.
More experienced children share what they have learned
while reinforcing their own learning. Because this peer group
learning is intrinsic to Montessori, there is often more
conversation---language experiences---in the Montessori
classroom than in conventional early education settings.
Creativity flourishes in an atmosphere of acceptance and trust. Music, art, storytelling, movement, and drama are part of the program. Other aspects which encourage creative development
in a Montessori environment include:
·
materials which stimulate interest and involvement
·an emphasis on the sensory aspect of experience
·the opportunity for both verbal and non-verbal modes of learning.
The curricular areas of the Montessori classroom include the following:
Practical Life Sensorial The Line Language Math Science Geography
