The upper elementary students transition from lower elementary into more abstract reasoning, relying more heavily on books and other resource material as they strengthen the work begun in lower elementary. Here they enhance their capabilities in hypothetical thinking, seeking to understand more fully the motivation behind behavior, acquiring fully abstract understanding of concepts. Students are provided with two 3-hour work cycles each day, allowing them the opportunity to work without interruption. In addition to their individual work, students work collaboratively within the cultural subjects through project-based learning.

 

Leadership is key in the upper elementary program. The 9-12 child is striving towards independence. Students at this level develop their leadership skills in the community by leading class meetings, service projects, fundraisers, and mentoring younger students.

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Entrepreneurship

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Maria Montessori’s curriculum, set up over 100 years ago, emphasized many of the skills that are now considered key factors in successful entrepreneurs. Her curriculum stressed areas of independence, self-guidance, and learning at one’s pace rather than the pace of others.

 

This self-directed curriculum ties itself into building great minds that encourage curiosity and independence. In a Montessori environment, students of all ages develop the ability to work by themselves and also with others in small groups.

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In the 9-12 program, students will further learn how to set goals, achieve these goals, and then set higher ones for projects of their own design. This process builds self-efficacy and creates a more positive feeling of success. Our students are encouraged in their daily work to take and assess risks and are supported as they learn from their mistakes. Through our use of Montessori practical life, even our young students gain a sense of order, accomplishment and concentration, which will be increasingly fostered with entrepreneurial skills and vernacular as they grow.

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A day in the life of an elementary student.

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As per AMI-recognized guidelines, we offer a full, five day week for our elementary Montessori program. A typical daily schedule is shown below. Currently, our elementary students ages 6-12 years are be together in the same classroom. With time, and as we enroll more students, we anticipate splitting up the classroom into two classrooms for ages 6-9 and 9-12.

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Typical Elementary Daily Schedule

8:30am - 8:45am arrival period and outdoor play or morning activity

8:45am - 11:45am morning work cycle and snack

11:45am - 12:00 am community meeting

12:00pm 12:30pm lunch

12:30pm - 1:00pm recess

1:00pm - 3:15pm afternoon work cycle

3:15pm - 3:30pm chores

3:30pm - 3:45pm dismissal

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