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The children would tell you, “No.” But we ask students to read at home daily and we expect them to follow up on things that interested them at school. Due to the fact that students naturally attracted to the subjects and materials they explore, this does not seem like "homework" to them. We encourage a positive environment for discovery and self-education.
Because of the way that we are trained to watch how students work, everything they do is a test—a more thorough test than a paper and pencil test (which is only required because of how traditional learning does not keep close track of the child.) But we also test the children every year using a nationally normed standardized test. We do this to test our program, not the child. We look for any gaps that may arise so that we can modify our educational environment if need be. However, we share these results with parents.
Negative behavior is rare in a Montessori classroom, because students work in areas that naturally interest them. The Montessori system of respect, responsibility and communication helps children to manage themselves, their feelings, and their behavior from a very young age. Our staff and philosophy models how to respectfully handle conflict. The rich learning environment provides healthy choices and autonomy. On those rare occasions where teacher intervention may be required, problems are nipped in the bud by redirecting the child to more appropriate work.
GVS students develop a love of learning that serves them exceedingly well when they transition to high school and traditional schools. Their Montessori foundation opens doors to any and all local public and private high schools. Our students sometimes tell us that they miss the personal attention they are used to here, but they are always well respected by their teachers where ever they go because of their high interest in learning and their good manners.
Montessori children have been encouraged to pursue what interests them from the time they enter GVS. Their study skills are above average and they are self reliant at a young age. Our teaching style encourages the natural curiosity in children, which instills in them a life-long love for learning.... In turn, providing resilient, passionate and open minded students. We’re honored to have had more than our share of class presidents and valedictorians, that also choose to go on to quality colleges. This is not, however, a goal we work toward. Rather, we work to develop the inborn talents of each individual. We encourage internal ambitions for each child in order to aid in their blossoming of natural talents.