Elementary
Our elementary program builds on the foundation the child received in a Montessori primary program and expands greatly. We call the curriculum for the elementary child Cosmic Education—it includes the entire universe. Lessons are given to spark the imagination and inspire wonder and interest in each student. Children begin elementary with concrete materials to introduce new concepts. As children move into a deeper learning and understanding, these concepts become more abstract with the oversight of the elementary guide.
One of the great challenges for an elementary child is learning to balance freedom and responsibility. Learning this balance is a big part of the child’s experience in our elementary classroom. One way we do this is through Going Outs. Going outs are small, child-led excursions. Maria Montessori said that the elementary classroom is a dual-environment: it not only includes learning in the classroom but also authentic learning experiences in the world outside of school. Some going outs include shopping for food to make a class snack, buying supplies for a classroom project, and going out for research in the community. Children are expected to make a list of what they would like to get from the going out, contact chaperones, and plan the event. Another way we help to develop this balance of freedom and responsibility is a child-planned, end of the year camping trip. The children are responsible for choosing where they will go, planning transportation, and helping to raise funds.
We strive for our elementary program to support not only academic development, but social and emotional development as well. Our goal is to develop culturally literate children who have a sense of respect and duty toward themselves and society, and to nurture their innate curiosity, creativity and intelligence.
We give priority placement in the elementary classroom to children with three years experience in a Montessori primary curriculum or who are transferring from another Montessori elementary program. In cases where children do not have this background, the Head of School and elementary guide will confer with parents to make an individualized decision regarding eligibility and enrollment.
School History
The Portland Montessori School, formerly Providence Montessori School, was founded in September 1962 under the direction of Sister Francella LaFramboise, who studied extensively at Montessori institutes in both the United States and Europe. In 2012, the school celebrated its 50th birthday, and we have the proud distinction of being the first Montessori school in the Northwest.
THE TRANSITION TO THE PORTLAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL
On January 1, 2013, Providence Montessori School officially became The Portland Montessori School, an independent, non-profit school. This successful transition resulted from the dedicated efforts of the school community, and the hard work of many parents, teachers and staff. Providence Health Systems, the organization that previously operated the school, also provided significant support throughout the transition. Now operating independently, the school is guided by a board of directors with active involvement and input from an engaged parent advisory committee (PAC). Our school retains its former character and community, including its rich history of providing a Montessori education to Portland-area children.
AN APPROACH TO EDUCATION DEVELOPED BY DR. MARIA MONTESSORI
At The Portland Montessori School, we educate children according to the Montessori method of education developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, the first female physician in Italy, and a pioneer in the study of child development. This method is based on her work with developmentally challenged and underprivileged children in Italy, which she began after graduating from medical school in 1896. The approach quickly earned worldwide acclaim and became a standard approach to educating children.
THE MONTESSORI APPROACH
In a Montessori education, children learn concepts while working in a carefully prepared environment designed to stimulate each child’s interest and understanding. Children work independently and in small groups with mixed-ages ranging approximately three years. Because a Montessori education instills the value of caring for our earth, the classroom often extends to the outdoors. The Montessori approach helps each child develop according to his or her inner clock. The guide, or teacher, acts as a catalyst in each child’s unique journey of development and aids them in their natural process of growth and learning.
The time-tested principles, methods and materials used in a Montessori education are scientifically supported and researched. After more than a century, this method continues to work because of its foundation in both observable and inherent human developmental principles that Dr. Montessori explored during her many decades of scientific observation and practice.