Founded by Italy’s first female physician, Dr. Maria Montessori, this educational approach—based on scientific observation—allows children to drive their own learning. Teachers act as facilitators, providing an environment where students can choose to participate in a number of developmental activities. In Montessori, education is an exciting process of discovery, leading to concentration, motivation, self-discipline and a love of learning. It also provides practical life experiences, such as cooking and gardening.

While Montessori ensures all students learn the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), teachers may not give standard grades or tests.

Progress can alternatively be determined through observation, self-evaluation, demonstration of mastery, oral exams, portfolios of work and student/parent/teacher conferences.

State-mandated assessments, such as STAAR, will continue to be administered at Montessori schools.

Effective Montessori education requires specially trained teachers—ones who not only know the unique learning materials and activities, but also how to prepare each day’s classroom environment. Montessori teachers observe all students’ skill levels and interests, providing opportunities to build on knowledge already gained and guiding each toward advancement. Staff at Herfurth and Luna elementaries will receive training from an American Montessori Society-accredited training center.

Montessori will follow the district’s Choice of School process. Any interested student can elect to apply. Since primary classes contain five spots each for three-year-olds—an age not traditionally serviced by GISD schools—the district will allow employees and community members to enroll their children for $475 a month. At four years old, those who qualify for prekindergarten will be offered a discounted rate, and others can still enroll at $475.  Like any GISD school, once a child has attended a Montessori campus for one year, they have the right to remain throughout fifth grade.

To receive bus transportation, students must attend a school within their designated eligibility area and reside two or more miles from that campus. Special circumstances may apply for magnet programs. GISD does not provide transportation for three and four-year-olds.

The district hopes all parents engage in their children’s education. Montessori invites involvement through observations, conferences, parent evenings and other special events. Families are also encouraged to continue learning at home. Can students participate in meal preparation, cleaning, gardening, or caring for clothes, shoes and toys?  This reiteration of skills gained in the classroom provides a real-world application for their education.

Studies show Montessori children rank above average in their ability to adapt to new situations, turn their work in on time, listen attentively and ask probing questions. They have also been encouraged to exchange ideas and discuss their work freely with others, developing good communication skills which will ease their transition.