Elementary Program
Montessori Lower Elementary Community
The Lower Elementary Community is a mixed age class of children 6 to 9 years of age. Learning is built on the foundation laid in the Montessori early childhood primary community. Children are transitioning from concrete thinking to more abstract thought processes. They are developing their social skills, forming strong friendships and deeper levels of moral responsibility. The children work collaboratively with their peers on many projects, showing a desire to delve deeply into topics that interest them.
Maria Montessori called the education of this age group “Cosmic Education.” Because children are inquisitive about their world, cosmic education aids them in discovering their place in the universe. It helps them search for the answers to the questions of Why? Where? When? and How? Their questions create the basis of exploration of the world and the universe. Information is connected across the whole curriculum of history, geography, math, geometry, science, language, literature, art and music leading the child to understand the bigger interconnected picture. At the same time, the child is engaged in the mastery of facts and skills- the basics of education that allow them to move forward.
Aside from academic pursuits, children learn independence and responsibility, as well as how to get along respectfully in a community.
The teacher is a master of all subjects though her role is to guide the children to the knowledge they seek. Instead of the traditional role of the teacher as the “giver of information,” she provides students with the tools to find out more for themselves. Children are given the keys to the world so that they can grow toward becoming independent thinkers. Lessons are given to spark interest and encourage children to find out more. And since the teacher knows each child for three years across all subjects, she is able to aid the child in making connections and following his and her interests throughout the curriculum.
Program Schedule
The Elementary Program is a 5 day per week program from 8:45 AM to 3:15 PM Monday through Thursday starting in early September through mid-June. Once a month, Fridays are early closing at 1:00 PM.
Application Information
Parents interested in enrolling their child in GREAT BEGINNINGS Elementary program should contact the school to set up an appointment to meet with the Head of School and the Elementary Guide. Look out for our open house days later in the summer and fall.
