Questions About Montessori

Why is there no homework?

The children are “actively” engaged in their work; they are tired at the end of their school day.  Homework is considered “home” work, family participation, such as setting the table, writing out the grocery list, assisting parents with projects, etc.  This homework or practical life is the very foundation of the Montessori education.

Why is there no grading and testing?

Without grading, there is not just one answer.  There is no fear of error, and the children are encouraged to think for themselves, to wonder…if, when, and then.  They may solve problems from many different ways, and this often leads to the next lesson.

Without standardized tests, how do I know where my child is?

Students are always working toward mastery.  Assessments include ongoing observation, self-correction, teaching the lesson to another student, and/or oral presentation.  Standardized testing can create an illusion of proficiency through memorized facts and not applied knowledge.

How do you work current events into the Montessori curriculum?

The 5 Great Lessons are the foundation on which the student builds, therefore they will always include the most current scientific finding and events.

What is the benefit of a mixed-age classroom?

The society of the classroom is everything. The elementary student has moved to the 2nd plane of development, from constructive to community. They are experimenting with their place in the community; roles and responsibilities are of grand importance. Montessori gives the opportunity to try different roles, as oldest, youngest, expert, role model, leader, botanist, meteorologist, etc.

Without a teacher telling my child what to do, will my child be challenged?

When you let the children choose what to work on, they will ALWAYS chose more challenging work than the teacher.  Secondly, they will retain more from the work which they are interested in and have chosen.

How will my child transition to another school?

Montessori students excel in adaptability. Studies find that Montessori students rank academically on-target or superior, and socially advanced to their traditional-educated peers.

What is the elementary teacher’s training?

All OakHaven directresses have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and have completed the AMI 9-month Montessori training.

What is the Kindergarten Entrance Exam?

As Maria Montessori so eloquently states, “to be a human child.”

Is there a separate Kindergarten in Montessori?

At OakHaven, as in traditional Montessori method, Kindergarten is part of the primary 3-year curriculum. Students transition to Lower Elementary (Grades 1-3) when they move from the absorbent mind to the reasoning mind, usually around the 6th birthday.

Can my 3rd grader enroll at OakHaven?

Unfortunately, not at this time. We are currently accepting the following enrollments :

Primary program
children 2 1/2 to 4 years old
children from age 4 through 6 (kindergarten age) with previous Montessori experience

Elementary program
select children in first grade with previous Montessori experience

The OakHaven Montessori School elementary program will officially begin in September of 2010. Students with Montessori backgrounds who will be entering 1st or 2nd grade at that time will be admitted into the program. Each year we will expand the elementary program to include another grade level. Ultimately, we plan to continue the program through 6th grade.