Spotlight on the Public Montessori K-3 Program at Wheatland Elementary School

Strathmore Montessori Society

 

September 2012 will mark the eighth school year for the Public Montessori Program at Wheatland Elementary School in Strathmore. The grade K/1 and 2/3 classrooms are characterized with specially designed, manipulative materials inviting students to engage in learning activities at their own pace. Under the guidance of a trained teacher, children learn by making discoveries with the Montessori materials, cultivating concentration, motivation, self discipline and a love of learning. A significant benefit of the Montessori philosophy is the way it allows students to learn at an individualized pace, providing enrichment which can even challenge students to progress beyond regular grade level. It is important to note that though the way in which the students learn differs from a mainstream classroom, the curriculum set out by Alberta Education is followed.

Supporting the Montessori Program at Wheatland Elementary is the parent-run charitable organization the Strathmore Montessori Society.  As an Alternative Program in Golden Hills School Division, the Montessori program receives funding for teacher salaries, but this financial support covers neither the cost of Montessori materials nor specific Montessori teacher training, required in addition to a degree in Education. The SMS serves as the fundraising body to ensure these facets are addressed. This year the Society will hold its main fundraising event of the year, the Halloween Family Dance at the Strathmore Civic Centre on Friday, October 26th. 

The Montessori Kindergarten program at Wheatland Elementary School runs mornings, Monday to Friday. If you are interested in registering your child in Montessori at any grade level or would like more information, please call Wheatland Elementary School at 403-934-3318 and ask to speak to Principal Kevin Lane or Associate Principal Michelle Silver Rushford. Alternatively, feel free to call Trina Lloyd of the Strathmore Montessori Society at 403-901-0516.