Benefits of Montessori at GMS
GMS offers students a curriculum through which they can develop a love of learning, solid
academic skills, the ability to think creatively "outside the box." Students are encouraged to
absorb information through problem-solving and inquiry, as opposed to memorization alone.
Students work individually and are given opportunities to collaborate with one another on group
projects and to work with younger children as peer teachers. They also receive encouragement
to pursue their individual passions and interests through classroom and after-school activities.
Independent studies have shown that the benefits of a Montessori education last far beyond the
duration of the child's Montessori years; articles such as the recent one in Science magazine show
that Students also learn about the importance of being a productive member of a community,
in the classroom and beyond.
We recognize that the success of the GMS community depends on the inter-relationships
among its parents, students and teachers. Respect is an important principle to GMS. Its goal
is to encourage students to respect themselves, as well as to respect the environment, the
community and one another. It is GMS' philosophy that compassion, empathy, self-discipline
and personal accountability must be encouraged to ensure students have the means
to excel into the future.
Our Approach
GMS recognizes that a constant assessment of its performance is needed to maintain its
commitment to the Montessori philosophy. At the same time, GMS notes the importance of
keeping up with changing educational and cultural ideals.
Classroom environments are strategically designed to promote learning through the selection of
practical materials and child-sized work stations. Teachers guide students through an
understanding of individual personalities, strengths and needs. Only when students master
a work are they permitted to continue with their studies. This ensures every child receives a
customized education focused on individual achievement and the mastery of concepts instead of
relying only on broad, test-based standards.
Classrooms are well-structured through a system of rules and guide lines that provide freedom
within limits. Children internalize these rules throughout the school year, beginning with a
thorough orientation process that helps to introduce the child to this exciting new environment
in a thoughtful and reassuring way.
We recognize and meet the challenge of remaining true to the Montessori philosophy and the
GMS mission in a rapidly changing world. By regularly assessing our programs in reference
to non-Montessori learning standards, we ensure that the education received by our students
is part of a solid academic foundation, no matter where they might go after leaving GMS.
Learn More About Montessori
To learn more about the Montessori method we recommend the following links:
The American Montessori Society - http://www.amshq.org/
The Montessori Foundation - http://montessori.org/
