Saint Joseph Academy
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Frequently Asked Questions

Montessori - 'Montessori is as much an attitude about education and children as it is a specific method of teaching.'

Elementary - "First we learn to read, then we read to learn."

Middle School - "It takes the best in each of us to bring out the best in all of us."

Montessori FAQ:

Q: What are the benefits of Montessori education for toddlers and preprimary age children?

A: Educators and psychologists today agree that the most important period in the development of a person's intelligence occurs between birth and age six. A child's mind is extremely absorbent and his/her curiosity is at a peak during these early years. When properly nourished and stimulated the child's mind forms patterns for learning that serve him/her well throughout life. The Montessori system of preschool education has proven to be one of the most effective and fastest growing methods of guiding children through these critical years.

Q: How is a Montessori classroom different from other preschool rooms?

A: The Montessori classroom is a child-sized room. This is because to a child, the world is unmanageable--it is too big, too complex and too confusing. The Montessori classroom is set up to allow the child to explore life at a level she/he can understand. They are beautiful settings that entice children to explore materials at their own pace. Through this process children begin to experience the joy of learning. A classroom of Montessori children is truly a joy to watch.

Q: What subjects are taught?

A: Materials and curriculum center around Every Day Living, Sensorial, Language, Math, Geography, Science, Art and Music.

Q: Why is a Montessori experience five days a week?

A: The Montessori Classroom experience is for five consecutive days in order to allow the spontaneous learning of the child to flow smoothly. Simply put, children learn better with a consistent routine.

Q: What credentials do the staff have?

A: To be a Montessori Program Director you must be credentialed by the American Montessori Society and licensed by the State of Michigan. Head Teachers must also be Montessori Trained from an approved Montessori Teacher Education Center. All the staff at Saint Joseph Academy who work in the Children's Houses are Montessori certified. Our program is accredited by the American Montessori Society.

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