What can I expect to my child to learn at TRMS?
We not only prepare your child academically but we help grow his social skills and emotional maturity. Moreover, we nurture the child to develop a deep sense of independence, which fuels an innate desire to learn.
If children are allowed to choose their own work, how do you make them learn?
We believe children want to learn and come to this world with a deep curiosity of the world around them. Our goal is to keep this burning curiosity alive and continually inspire the children to thirst for learning.
Why is it so quiet in a Montessori classroom? Are the children allowed to speak?
Montessori classrooms are often calm because the teachers model calmness. Children will copy what they see. We expect children to be respectful of the other children in the classroom, speak with a quiet voice and speak only to the people near them. We also ask that the children be respectful in the hallways, as not to disturb other classrooms.
What is the child to teacher ratio?
Toddler classroom – 5 children to 1 teacher
Primary classroom – 11 children to 1 teacher
Elementary classroom – 12 children to 1 teacher
Does my child need to be toilet trained?
We do not require children to be toilet trained in our toddler program. Children enrolled in our primary program must be free of diapers and pull-ups.
What is the purpose of multi-age classrooms?
Each child spends several years with the same teacher and the same children; a continuity that fosters a trusting and more secure classroom community. Children are able to learn many skills from their peers in a non-competitive atmosphere. The older children often teach the younger children a lesson or skill, which enhances and reinforces their own knowledge.
Do you adhere to state standards?
Yes. Our curriculum not only meets state standards, but in most areas, surpasses them. These standards are for kindergarten students and older and cover language arts, math, and social studies.
How is discipline handled?
We use the Positive Discipline method by Jane Nelsen and redirection to help children become self-disciplined. We first consider the reasons for the misbehavior, such as, is the child seeking attention, engaged in a power struggle or feelings of revenge? We then seek a long-term solution, rather than a quick-fix.
How can I support my child’s Montessori education at home? What do you provide in terms of parent education?
Most importantly, we encourage you to talk to your child’s teacher; she will be your best means by which to bring Montessori philosophies into your home. In addition, we recommend parents attend the various parent education events we hold during the year. Topics vary from year to year, but typically include such ideas as Montessori at home, reading, positive discipline, and siblings without rivalry. We also suggest that parents read the many Montessori and other parenting books we have in our library as well as our school newsletters. This year we have also begun a book club to help encourage and support TRMS parents.
Why should I keep my child at TRMS through upper elementary (6th grade)?
With our personalized curriculum and small classroom size, our elementary children have a wondrous love of learning. Children take responsibility for their own education by contributing to the decisions made about their work plan, participating in parent teacher conferences, and self-assessing their own work. When children are treated with respect, they learn to give respect to others. We also focus not just on academics, but insist on community service being a large part of the elementary curriculum.
Will my child transition well into traditional school after leaving TRMS?
Yes. Montessori graduates are especially adaptable because they develop and grow through experiential learning. Each day is different and children's classroom experiences will vary. Our multi-age classrooms afford them the opportunity to work with children of all abilities, thereby preparing them for the world at large. Finally, with respect being the foundation for all learning, children are taught how to be respectful of others and themselves; thus, making them very adaptable to new situations and environments.