Montessori
Montessori bead bars show different numbers, and each number has a different color. A child in the photo is using the bead bars to learn mathematics.
Children refine motor skills in Montessori classrooms. In this photo, a child is learning to pour without spilling.
Montessori classrooms use hands-on materials for learning about space (and many other topics).
The Montessori stamp game is one material that supports children in learning to add larger numbers.
The Montessori hundred board helps to reinforce counting and helps children see patterns in our number system.
There are many Montessori materials to support children with learning to count. The spindle box (shown here) is one of these materials. Most Montessori children learn in small groups.
Children learn both academics and practical life skills in Montessori classrooms.
Why Choose Montessori?
Montessori focuses on educating the whole child- building independence, strengthening social and emotional skills, and learning academics. Our classrooms are thoughtfully designed to foster independence. Children are empowered to take ownership of their learning and cultivate intrinsic motivation rather than relying on external rewards. Children in Montessori schools learn individually or in small groups using specially-designed, hands-on materials. These materials help children to develop a deep understanding of concepts. Many of these materials are used throughout elementary school in ways that are increasingly complex and challenging.
All Montessori classrooms are multi-age. These multi-age groupings create opportunities for children to develop independence, sense of community, and leadership. Children can progress at their own pace, learning from both their teacher and their peers. Children will only have three teachers during their time at a Montessori school. These are the three multi-age groupings:
- Children’s House: Pre-K and Kindergarten
- Lower Elementary (E1): Grades 1, 2, and 3
- Upper Elementary (E2): Grades 4 and 5
Montessori education recognizes the importance of choice (what to work on, where to work, and how long to practice) for greater engagement and deeper learning. These choices are embedded in a supportive structure that ensures children learn age-appropriate concepts. Montessori children grow up to be confident, life-long learners, and engaged citizens.
SPPS Montessori Magnet Schools
All SPPS Montessori Magnet schools offer grades Pre-K through 5th grade.
- Barack & Michelle Obama Montessori Elementary School: Transportation provided for areas C-West, D, E, and F.
(Formerly J.J. Hill Montessori) - Crossroads Montessori School: Transportation provided for areas A-F.
- Nokomis Montessori School - North Campus: Transportation provided for areas A and C-East.
- Nokomis Montessori School - South Campus: Transportation provided for area B
Montessori Child Doing Math with Montessori Bead Bars
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Montessori schools cost to attend?
There is no extra cost to attend SPPS Montessori schools, since they are magnet schools within the Saint Paul Public School system.
Do children just play all day at Montessori schools?
Children do not play all day in Montessori schools. To those less familiar with Montessori, it may appear that children are all "playing" with something different. However, children are just practicing different skills using hands-on Montessori materials throughout the classroom. With our youngest learners, this might include the development of fine motor skills or discerning between colors and sizes of objects. With older learners, this skill practice might include using hands-on Montessori materials to learn math or completing learning projects.
How are lessons done with multiple grade levels?
Most children receive lessons in small groups, with some individual and whole-group lessons. Children may also attend lessons with children who are in other grade levels within the class to extend or reinforce their learning.
While a small group is having a lesson with the teacher, the rest of the children are working on projects and work from lessons. Children are supported with building independence in Montessori classrooms so that they can make choices that lead to success. Teachers provide structures to help children make positive decisions about which work they should be completing. For example, some children are provided with a “work plan” that helps them visualize their choices while keeping expectations for learning high.
Why aren't all children doing the same work at tables and desks?
In Montessori classrooms, children may choose which work to focus on throughout the day, where they would like to work (e.g. at a low table, regular table, standing work space, or floor space), and if they would like to repeat a work for better understanding. Teachers provide structures around these choices to support children in being successful in their learning. Montessori teachers also strive to adjust lessons and work so that they are responsive to students' needs and interests.