Our Programs

The primary curriculum is designed with the understanding that children learn best through real-life activities that support independence, concrete experiences that engage the senses, and open-ended exploration.  This leads to the refinement of their movements, sensory perceptions, language and intellect development. Children thrive through opportunities to follow their own interests and freely choose their own scaffolded activities.  Through guided exploration they develop independence,concentration and curiosity.

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Montessori materials for the primary age are designed to support self-directed discovery and learning. They are organized around Practical Life activities that develop both independence and concentration; Sensorial activities that refine and develop the child’s senses; the development of Spoken Language, Writing and Reading skills; and Mathematical activities that develop fundamental mathematical concepts; and Cultural activities that include geography, history, biology, science, music, and the arts. 

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Elementary Program (6-9 years old)
 

The Elementary Program has mixed-age classrooms of children age six through twelve. 

Dr. Montessori characterized elementary children, ages 6-12, to have an inquisitive nature, imagination, moral and social awareness, and boundless energy for discovery and exploration.  Montessori students typically work together in small groups on lessons or projects that ignite their creativity, stimulate their intellect, and enhance their reasoning skills.  In our Montessori curriculum subjects are woven together, including geography, biology, history, language, mathematics, science, music, and art.  This exploration is further enriched as children organize field trips outside the classroom, seeking real-world knowledge from community resources like libraries, gardens, and animal shelters.  This hands-on approach cultivates a sense of connection to humanity while nurturing children's innate desire to contribute positively to the world.

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Family Involvement

Protea families are invited to participate in optional parent-led activities and discussions throughout the year to support open communication, to nurture and celebrate our shared passion for this school, and to strengthen our sense of community. Events may include potlucks, after-school and weekend park meet-ups, community education evenings, and group visits to the Museum of Science and other outings. Protea families are also invited to participate in an optional community online discussion platform, giving families the opportunity to be a resource for each other and to support each other as our children develop and grow throughout the year.

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Our goal is to provide opportunities for children and parents from different families to interact and bond with each other, and transforming our community into a big, extended family where we all care for each other. We also hope to create opportunities for families to support our Protea teachers and the school space itself, encouraging a community sense of ownership and stewardship of the school.

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This includes both formally scheduled events and spontaneous activities, guided organically by the interests and input of Protea families. New ideas are always welcome!