We’re All Starting School!

Thursday, September 5th, 2013 1:08 am | By Stephanie Woo

Mark, the newest Montessorian in the family

B and M are starting school! It took us six months to find a Montessori school that we like and has space to take two children. Even though Portland has a huge number of Montessori schools, it still took a very long time. This AMI-certified school has big outdoor spaces and beautiful indoor spaces. After observing the classroom, Mark and I unanimously agreed that we like our teacher.  Her classroom was busy, while orderly and beautiful. Every child was engaged in his/her own work. Her presence was calm and respectful. 

How do you decide which Montessori school to send your child to? If you’re lucky enough to have choices, there were three steps. First of all, knowing that the teacher is AMI-trained was critical. This is something you can ask the school directly. Second, I read reviews and asked around for the general reputation of the school. When that checked out, I went with my gut feelings. I liked being there myself. I liked the vibe of the adults and the space. I wouldn’t mind going there everyday myself. For those of you without AMI-trained teachers and schools, the last two points are especially important to keep in mind. 

On Tuesday, I will be starting my AMI 3-6 Montessori training at the Montessori Institute Northwest. One of my trainers, Ginni Sackett, is a legend and everyone I’ve met who has trained with her have told me that her course is transformational. I’m so ready to start and take what I know so far about 0-3 to the next level. 

But the biggest news of all is this: My husband, Mark, just started his Elementary (6-12) training at the Montessori Institute Northwest! We will be training in adjacent classrooms. This is totally unexpected and unplanned. We’ve been talking about opening a Montessori school for years, but he recently went to a meditation course for two weeks, came back committed as ever to the idea of opening a school. When you commit to something, the Universe tests your resolve immediately. He responded in kind and said YES. I’m sure we’ll be tested many times again over the years, but for now, we are happy to be going to school together. 

Just between you and me, it’s so hot to hear a man talk about Montessori. Every time I hear him use words like the ‘Absorbent Mind,’ ‘Self-construction’ and ‘Observation,’ I can’t keep my hands off him. But this blog is meant to be PG, so I’ll stop there. But you get the gist…*wink*

Reader Comments (2)

  1. I hear you! I’m an AMI primary guide and my husband just got into Montessori too…..they’re the best! I love your blog by the way, I use it all the time with parents!

    Monday, November 18th, 2013 9:30 pm | Hannah
    • I did not see this earlier, but Hannah, isn’t it the best to have your husband in Montessori, too?!

      Saturday, October 25th, 2014 6:03 pm | Stephanie Woo

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