Philomath Montessori School

During the 2021-22 school year, 22 children between the ages of 2-1/2 and 6 attended our primary school. We welcome all children - supporting and celebrating differences of gender, race, religion, family structure, socio-economic level, age, sexual orientation, abilities and learning style. In line with the philosophies and techniques developed by Maria Montessori, a pioneer in early childhood development, we believe birth to six years of age is a period when learning is naturally driven and almost effortless. Young children learn by unconsciously taking in everything around them. The best environment for this is a classroom equipped with a rich array of activities that inspire children and sustain their attention and concentration while encouraging independence. Therefore, everything in our classroom is child-sized and composed with beauty, quality and intention. Activities in the classroom are hands-on so that the child can learn by doing, and also experience many abstract qualities and concepts in a concrete form. Because they are free to move around, the children meet and talk with one another and learn to discuss common problems. They resolve conflicts, answer questions, borrow and lend, and assist each other in many ways. Our staff includes two Montessori-trained guides who together have over 35 years teaching experience, assisted by a capable classroom aide.