The Essence of Mountain West Montessori
Mission
We are an international community that holistically guides children and their families, fostering education for peace, in harmony with nature, and grounded in the philosophy and teachings of Dr. Maria Montessori
Vision
Philosophy
Mountain West Montessori’s educational philosophy emphasizes holistic development and a passion for learning in each child. We use a child-centered approach, tailoring education to fit each student’s needs, interests, and pace. Our thoughtfully designed environment encourages self-directed, active learning, allowing students to explore and discover in a respectful and engaging setting. By focusing on intrinsic motivation and individualized instruction, we support the development of critical life skills and foster collaboration within our community. Our goal is to inspire a lifelong love of learning and empower each child to reach their full potential.
Natural Spirituality
Maria Montessori saw a unique spark in children that she believed could transform the world. She recognized that children are inherently good and, if allowed to develop naturally, form a deep connection to their environment and society. Children who progress through stages at their own pace develop a strong sense of care for others and their surroundings. Montessori’s philosophy suggests that children have inner guides leading them through cognitive, social, and psychological tasks as they mature. Adults should nurture this inner guide and respect each child’s individual pacing and interests.
Order and Structure
Order plays a crucial role in the lives of young children. It involves assigning a specific place for each object, helping children understand where items belong, and encouraging them to return objects to their designated spots. This sense of order creates a secure environment, allowing children’s brains to feel safe and facilitating learning and development. The Montessori classroom blends structural security with freedom of expression, offering a holistic education for both body and mind.
Developmental Phases
Mountain West Montessori Education in El Paso, TX identified cyclical phases of development in children, including periods of seeking order, refining senses, acquiring language, developing movement, experimenting with small objects, and participating in community life. As children transition between stages, they experience heightened sensitivity and rapid learning. Recognizing these phases allows adults to guide children effectively, taking advantage of their accelerated learning. Montessori Guides (teachers) are trained to be sensitive to these creative periods, offering support while allowing children to pursue their interests at their own pace.
Children Learn Through Their Senses
Montessori designed materials and curricula to enhance sensory development because children learn about the world through physical experiences. These sensory materials align with how children learn. Montessori believed that children are drawn to beautiful objects, so the materials combine aesthetics with functionality. The enduring success of Montessori’s designs worldwide demonstrates the accuracy of her observations. Mountain West Montessori proudly uses materials found in Montessori schools around the globe.