Philosophy
At the turn of the century, Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952), the first woman physician in Italy, developed the Montessori method of education. From her keen observations, Dr. Montessori established the method of education that has universally been effective.
Her philosophy of education is summed up in the single phrase: "Preparation for Life." In the preparation, the child is made aware of the six areas of life's drama, practical life, sensorial, linguistic, mathematical and cultural. The basic idea in the Montessori philosophy of education is that all children carry within themselves the person they will become. In order to develop physical, intellectual and spiritual potential to the fullest, the child must have freedom. A freedom to be achieved through order and self discipline.
The world of the child is full of sights and sounds, which at first appear chaotic. From this chaos, children must gradually create order, learn to distinguish from the impressions that assail their senses, and slowly but surely gain mastery of themselves and their environment. Dr. Montessori developed what she called the "Prepared Environment" which already possesses a certain order and allows children to learn at their own pace, according to their own capacities and in a non-competitive atmosphere. As she said "Never let children risk failure until they have reasonable chances of success."
The Name
Dr. Maria Montessori described her nationality as "My country is a star which revolves around the sun and is called the Earth." In keeping with this perspective of the world, "the earth in the name of our school" refers to our commitment to instill in children a respect for the earth and for all living things. Children will participate in "earth experiences" that are integrated into the student's broader curriculum. An atmosphere of love and respect for life is the foundation of "cosmic education".
Plants and animals are part of the outside environment. A cultivated area and an area for wild flowers and seeds, as well as birds eating at a bird feeder, rather than being observed in captivity, allows the child to experience those things and become a part of nature's magic.
Recycling and gardening will be a part of every classroom. Whether tending a garden or raking leaves, care of the outdoor environment and of growing things, promotes mental as well as physical development.
"How often is the soul of a man, especially of that of a child deprived, because one does not put him in contact with nature." - Dr. Montessori