Introduction

The American Montessori Society defines Montessori as, “An education philosophy and practice that fosters rigorous, self-motivated growth for children and adolescents in all areas of their development, with a goal of nurturing each child’s natural desire for knowledge, understanding, and respect.

Three schools within the Yonkers Public Schools system were established to provide educational options for families that are looking for schools that provide a student-centered, peaceful community for learning. Grounded in the Montessori philosophy and approach, the Yonkers Montessori academies, provide a multi-level prepared learning environment that follow’s the child and their natural desire and curiosity to learn. As a New York State Education Department approved curriculum, the schools adhere to the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards, while providing an environment equipped for Montessori learning.

Although the 3 schools are housed in separate buildings on different campuses around our city, we operate as one community, with the same growth mindset and expectations. Within our learning community you will find our developmentally appropriate multi-age classrooms—designed to create natural opportunities for learning, independence, citizenship, and accountability: 

Classroom environments are grouped accordingly:

            Pre-Primary—Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten

            Primary—Grades 1, 2 and 3

            Intermediate—Grades 4, 5, and 6

            Middle School—Grades 7 and 8

            High School—Grades 9-12

The essential elements for a public Montessori school include prepared adults (faculty and staff provided with training and professional development; prepared environments (classrooms designed and equipped to maximize student learning independence and interdependence, access to nature and real-world material and resources); scheduling that provides for uninterrupted work sessions of 2-3 hours.

This handbook is designed to provide a reference for Montessori education within the City of Yonkers, as part of the public-school system.