Our Faculty
Get to know the educators who carry the directress role described here.
The Montessori directress in the classroom
At The Montessori School of Hamilton, the teacher is the person Dr. Montessori called the directress. Rather than lecturing, she guides each child through an ordered arrangement of developmentally appropriate activities. The classroom itself is a carefully prepared environment, equipped with more than 400 didactic, self-teaching educational materials, and the directress is trained to prepare and maintain that environment for the children who explore it.
When a child chooses a material, the directress demonstrates the correct way to use it. Her presentations are brief and efficient - just enough information to intrigue the child and inspire a return visit for deeper investigation. Her broader work is observation: she watches for the specific interests that pique each child's curiosity, tracks their progress, and keeps accurate records of strengths, accomplishments, and chosen work.
In this way the role of the teacher is not to lecture from pre-existing knowledge or theory. Instead, she connects each child to the world around them through creative, hands-on, sensory-integrated materials and helps the child grasp the concepts being presented. Each child is encouraged to work at their own rate, and the teacher-student relationship is built on mutual respect and love. The result is a classroom focused on one goal: cultivating the optimal potential in every child.
Steps to take before enrolling
1
Visit our school and observe a class in session
Arrange a visit and observe the grade level or levels that interest you. The scheduled tour takes about one hour, so plan accordingly. On the first visit we ask that your child not be with you so you can focus on the program rather than your child's reaction to a new environment, which can be overwhelming. The Director will discuss Montessori education and philosophy, introduce you to the teachers and the curriculum at each level, and you will observe in a classroom of your choice for at least thirty minutes. You will receive an Introduction to Montessori observation sheet that tells you what to look for as you consider the school. This is the best way to get to know us and to decide whether Montessori is right for your family. Afterward, we will answer any questions. Please call (609) 585-1314 to set up an appointment. We endorse an open-door policy for parents and inquiring minds, but a scheduled initial visit helps us minimize classroom disruption by controlling the number of adults in a class at any one time.
2
Complete the admissions application and registration packet
After your initial visit, each parent should have a clear idea of how well the school matches their sense of values and goals for their child's well-being and education. The second step is to read, sign, and submit the items in the table below along with any applicable fees. If you have not yet toured, return the completed application for admission to our Admissions Office and the school will contact you to schedule a tour and arrange an interview with the Director. The acceptance letter is sent out with the registration packet by mail. The registration packet includes all state-regulated forms: health, immunizations, emergency contact numbers, field trip authorizations, special needs information, allergies, authorized individuals for pickup, medication forms, and pertinent transportation forms. Prior to your child's first day at school, review and update all paperwork and submit it to the admissions office; these forms can be obtained from the school's office at any time. State health regulations mandate that immunization and health records be up to date and on file prior to the entrance date. Ask for the 'First Day Checklist' and the Parent Handbook; read the Handbook thoroughly and keep it for your records.
Admissions items and fees
Return these items with your Student Enrollment Agreement. The application and all applicable fees are due by March 31 to ensure your child's spot in the program for the year.
Privacy disclosure
All reports, records, forms, interviews, and materials obtained from current and prospective students and their families are kept in the strictest confidence. We will not release any information without the consent of parents or guardians, and we honor the confidentiality and privacy of all personal information for enrolled students, prospective students, and their families.
Explore the Montessori difference
The Montessori Method
Trace the philosophy behind the prepared environment and self-directed learning.
Admissions & Enrollment
Find the details you need to apply, including tuition and timelines.
Visit an Open House
Schedule a classroom observation and see this approach in action.