Elementary Program

"A Time To Excel"

Our Elementary program complements the activities presented at the Casa level and continues with two, three-year spiralling curriculums. Children of multiple ages are combined in each classroom:

• Lower Elementary spans 6 to 9 years of age
• Upper Elementary spans 9 to 12 years of age

The Montessori belief of educating children of different ages together provides a unique environment for character development. Younger children are fascinated by the activities of older children and learn from them by observation, imitation and interaction. Older children experience opportunities for leadership and mastery of their studies as they initiate activities and take on more responsibility. Both younger and older children enjoy a sense of achievement, compassion for others and build confidence that lasts a lifetime.

The Montessori approach is the process of educating the whole person, allowing him or her to learn and grow in many directions. Adults tend to separate learning into "subjects" while children naturally integrate their learning experiences. At KMS, children and adults work together in an organic, developmental process that moves forward in ever wider and deeper sweeps, encompassing all the subjects: language, mathematics, cultural areas (history, sciences, geography), the arts (music, drama, art, and creative movement) and physical education. There is never only one thing going on. It is through the integration of all subject areas that creativity, excitement and a deep understanding are found in the classroom.

Our Elementary teachers are extensively trained to develop an individual learning program for each student which, in most cases, goes well beyond the provincial curriculum standards. The children work alone and in groups. Lessons are presented mostly on an individual basis at the student's own pace. A student's progress is tracked daily, which ultimately results in accelerated learning. This individual attention to the development of the whole child also allows each to achieve his or her full potential without pressure or a breakdown of self esteem. Students develop a keen sense of self, community and the world. Students in our Elementary classroom are expected to become increasingly responsible for their own education. Continued joy in learning, self-discipline in one's work and time, respect for one's classmates and a strong emphasis on learning in the community and volunteerism are hallmarks of success in the Montessori Elementary program.