Frequently Asked Questions

In what year was the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) founded?

In 1929, Dr. Montessori founded the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) to establish training centers that would prepare teachers to carry out her method.

Is the Adams Montessori School certified or accredited?

 The Adams Montessori School is accredited by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) the organization founded by Dr. Maria Montessori. We have consultations every two years in order to maintain a good standing. We are also affiliated with the Association of Independent Schools of New England (AISNE).

What is the average class size and composition?

Montessori classrooms are designed for mixed aged groups of 3-6 year olds. These classrooms allow for both individual and social development. Younger children benefit from imitating and emulating older children while the more experienced older children reinforce what they have learned by assisting the younger children. They develop a sense of responsibility and mastery, greatly enhancing their self-confidence. The classrooms have 20 – 28 children and one Montessori trained teacher with one to two assistants.

Do you have a kindergarten?

Adams Montessori School does not have a separate traditional, kindergarten class. The classrooms are made up of mixed aged groups from 3-6 years old children. The five year old children complete their kindergarten class along with the other children, serving as the role models for their younger peers. They spend time in the afternoons working on collaborative projects and independent work, preparing them for first grade.

What's up with the beads?

Montessori materials are carefully designed to teach children specific skills that can be built upon as the child masters an aspect of the material. These scientifically designed materials are multi-sensory, sequential, and self-correcting. The beads help the children understand abstract mathematical concepts. We provide Parent Information Nights that discuss the curriculum and materials in detail.

When and how do Montessori children transition to public schools?

Some children opt to enter public schools after the primary program. Children in the elementary program normally enter public or private schools after three or six years. Teachers at other schools often comment on the Montessori child's unusual ability to focus and work independently as well as collaboratively. They are excellent problem solvers and manage their time well. Since Montessori provides assessments other than traditional grading, we help our children develop portfolios of work that can be used when applying to other schools and for placement in public schools.

Do the elementary students take the MCAS tests?

No, but we do adhere to the state curriculum guidelines and we teach test taking strategies so that our children are prepared to take standardized tests in the future.

How do you incorporate current technologies in the classroom?

While we provide access to computers in the elementary classroom, we see the technology as a tool like any other. Children are able to use computers in the same way they use a dictionary, an atlas or a journal.