Programs
Steele Montessori Academy opened in August 2017 with ages 3 to 6 year olds, and will expand to age 12 in subsequent years. SAISD developed the program in collaboration with the National Center for Montessori in the Public Sector, and students are taught by trained Montessori teachers with a focus on the whole child. Students learn through hands-on experience and self-directed activity.
Montessori characteristics
Montessori is based on scientific observation of children’s natural development and refined by decades of practice. Some essential Montessori characteristics:
- Student choice: Children choose their own activities from a range of choices carefully prepared by trained Montessori teachers.
- Mixed-age groupings: A mix of younger and older children in the same developmental stage allows for students to advance seamlessly as they are ready for more challenging material, build authentic community and learn from both teachers and peers.
- Uninterrupted independent work periods: Children build attention, focus, and concentration, while learning at their own pace.
- Montessori materials: Hands-on, concrete, self-correcting materials support engagement, curiosity, independence, and self-guided learning.
- Comprehensive curriculum: Teachers are trained in a broad curriculum covering language, math, science, culture, art, music, movement, practical life skills, and social development.
- Personalized learning: Teachers give lessons one-on-one or in small groups, allowing them to tailor each presentation to the skill level and readiness of individual children.
- Developmental Stages: Montessori looks different for different ages because it follows children's natural development.
What is Montessori?
Montessori is a comprehensive model of education which has been shown to produce superior outcomes for children of all classes and ethnicities. First developed in1907, yet relevant to 21st century demands, Montessori education is practiced in public and private schools all over the world, serving children from birth to age 18. There are more than 5,000 Montessori schools in the United States alone, of which more than 500 are public programs.