Montessori school in Waterford set to open next year

The Waterford School District has announced the formation of a Montessori school at the Lutes Campus beginning with the 2011-12 academic year.

District officials have also said they will work with the American Montessori Center (AMC) to assist with the school’s development. AMC is a nationally-recognized Montessori organization that has worked with many school districts, as well as private and non-profit Montessori schools.

According to the International Montessori Index website, Montessori education differs from traditional American education in that it emphasizes learning through all five senses and allows children to learn at their own pace through their own choice of activities.

Children are placed in three-year age groups, from ages 3-6, 6-9 and 9-12.

The system was founded in 1907 by Dr. Maria Montessori, the first female physician in Italy.

It’s reported that there are at least 4,000 certified Montessori schools in the U.S. and 7,000 worldwide.

The district stated that the kindergarten and elementary-age Montessori program will be tuition-free, while the early childhood/preschool program will be tuition-based.

The school will also be open to families outside the district through the Schools of Choice program.

Parents interested in the school are welcome to attend an informational meeting beginning at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 10 in the Woodland Room at the Covert Center on Scott Lake Road.