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Because the Montessori method prioritizes self-directed learning and mastery through repetition, Montessori students typically do not receive a new, teacher-led lesson every day. Instead, teachers give lessons tailored to individual children’s readiness, allowing them to practice and master skills independently at their own pace. 

Key reasons for this approach include:

• Individualized Instruction: Lessons are given based on the teacher’s observation of each child, not a strict daily schedule. Teachers offer new lessons when they observe that a child is ready to advance, needs a challenge, or has shown interest in a new topic.
• Agency & Engagement: Instead of passively receiving daily instruction, Montessori students are often self-directed, reinforcing a love of learning, concentration, and independence.
• A Focus on Repetition & Mastery: Montessori is a mastery-based approach designed to refine both motor skills and cognition. Once a lesson is given, a student may work with a material for days or weeks to build proficiency and confidence. Students do receive “reminder lessons” as teachers circulate in the classroom, answering questions or offering help as students work independently to master materials, concepts, and skills.
• The Gift of Time: Rather than being interrupted by frequent teacher-led lessons, students engage in long, uninterrupted 3-hour work blocks that promote deep focus and independent exploration.
• Hands-on Montessori Materials: Students use the self-correcting Montessori materials to learn and explore, rather than simply being taught by the teacher. In a sense, the materials continue to teach the child.
• Power Skills: Previously called “soft skills,” power skills include communication, empathy, collaboration, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. In addition to academic lessons, teachers give lessons about how to navigate conflict with peers, work as a team, and express one’s thoughts and feelings respectfully. In the age of AI, these social/emotional skills will be even more important than technical skills.

Essentially, the Montessori method focuses on high-quality, high-fidelity learning rather than the number of lessons provided by the teacher. 

“The greatest sign of success for a teacher... is to be able to say, ‘The children are now working as if I did not exist.’” — Montessori, M. (1966). The Secret of Childhood, p. 283
 

The Auction Committee is Calling on YOU!

As we gear up for this year’s highly anticipated Starry Garden Night Auction, the Event Committee is reaching out to local business owners and executives to join us in making this event a huge success! This is your chance to shine a spotlight on your brand while supporting a great cause – Springmont School.

Spotlight Your Brand on Our Auction Page and Ticket Sales Site

Sponsorship opportunities are now available, offering businesses the unique chance to gain visibility before and during the event. When you choose to sponsor the Auction, your business will be prominently featured on our auction page and ticket sales site. These platforms attract many potential customers, making it an excellent opportunity to promote your brand and show your support for our school. With the reach of the auction, your business will gain exposure to a wide and engaged audience, including parents, staff, and community members who value companies that give back. 

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a lasting impression. Visit Annual Auction - Springmont School to learn more about Sponsorship Opportunities and Benefits.  Ready to secure your sponsorship click here Auction Sponsorship Opportunities. 

Warm regards,
Auction Committee
 

Dear Families,

I am very pleased to announce that we have hired our new Toddler/Primary Division Head for the 2026-27 school year. Anne Ledoux comes to us with over 15 years of experience as a Primary teacher. She also founded and directed the Auxiliary Program and summer camp at the Scott campus of Arbor Montessori School. She is a dedicated Montessorian who has taught at Casa Montessori, Arbor Montessori School, and even at Springmont many years ago. Anne holds a Master of Education from Loyola College in Maryland and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Maryland. Anne is known by close colleagues as a hard-working, caring, organized, team player, as well as an amazing teacher and leader. We look forward to having her join our community in July. We will plan an event for parents to meet her prior to the start of school. 

In the meantime, our heartfelt thanks go to Patricia Jordan, who has served as our Interim Associate Head of School, and Dajar Showers, who has served as the Interim Division Coordinator for Toddler and Primary. They have served admirably this year, no matter how many hats they have worn!

Elizabeth