The Montessori Approach to Kindergarten

Our classrooms buzz with energy and focused effort, filled with engaging activities designed to accommodate various learning styles and promote a deep understanding of concepts. Unlike traditional public schools, we tailor our environments for children to excel through personalized learning experiences. It’s not about memorizing the correct answer; it’s about building on a foundational understanding to master abstract concepts.

WHY THE THIRD PRIMARY YEAR

Is the Key:

In Montessori settings, the third year—often dubbed the “Leadership Year”—holds special significance. Our Kindergarteners have established foundational skills and built confidence to take on leadership roles by this pivotal stage. They are ready to mentor younger peers and engage in complex projects, developing independence, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative skills essential for their academic journey ahead.

Why Choose School in the Hills?

At School in the Hills, we integrate Montessori principles with a rich, interdisciplinary curriculum that prepares students for academic success and essential life skills. In contrast to traditional methods that may emphasize rote memorization or faith-based teachings, our balanced approach addresses diverse needs and fosters holistic development, making learning an enjoyable and meaningful experience.

Focusing on the “whole child” prepares our students with a foundation for future success. A recent Acadience screening highlighted their average performance at the 95th percentile in reading and the 92nd percentile in math compared to their peers across the nation.

Academic Progress

IN KINDER

Our curriculum prepares each student for future academic challenges, fostering skills in time management, creative problem-solving, and effective collaboration. The outcomes are clear. We’re incredibly proud of our Kindergarten students’ reading and math proficiency.

Engaging Curriculum Examples

A standout feature of our curriculum is how we use Montessori materials to promote profound learning experiences. For instance, in math, children work with math beads, allowing them to explore and truly understand mathematical concepts instead of falling into the trap of rote memorization. In reading, we balance comprehension and fluency, ensuring that children are not just memorizing letters but understanding the blending of sounds that make up the words.

Understanding “Why”

IN LEARNING

Our approach is particularly beneficial for those who may struggle with subjects like math. By emphasizing the ‘why’ behind mathematical concepts rather than merely memorizing procedures, we help students build a strong foundation for future learning while fostering a lifelong love for problem-solving.

Fostering Creativity and Problem-Solving

Creativity and critical thinking are cornerstones of our educational philosophy, and this is particularly evident in our programs like Destination Imagination. This initiative encourages our students to think critically and collaborate with peers on complex projects, and equipping them to apply these skills beyond the classroom.

BUILDING

on Strengths

At School in the Hills, we are committed to building on each child’s strengths while subtly addressing areas for improvement. Through personalized learning strategies, we ensure that every child progresses at their own pace, ultimately reaching their full potential.