About Us
Silver Bow Montessori School, Inc. is a non-profit, non-sectarian, 501(c)3 organization dedicated to Montessori education for children of Southwest Montana ages approximately 3 to 12. Established in 1988 as a pre-school, the school has grown to offer educational opportunities for children in early childhood, kindergarten, and elementary programs.
The professional staffing, highly developed curriculum, facilities, equipment, and programs offered by Silver Bow Montessori School are unique in Southwest Montana. Historically, families have enrolled students from as far away as Glen, Whitehall, Anaconda, and Deer Lodge. Hundreds of former students attending all of Butte's public and private schools can attest to the value of investing in Montessori early childhood education. We believe this investment is as important as saving for college.
What is Montessori Education?
Based on the research and pedogogy of Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952), Montessori education focuses on childrens' natural curiosity and desire to learn. It focuses on preparing the "whole" child for life experiences and emphasizes learning through all five senses, not simply through listening and watching.
In a Montessori classroom, you will find the teacher facilitating small group lessons and following each child, offering help and support when needed. The teacher prepares an environment full of developmentally appropriate activities, in which children are allowed to learn and grow at their own, indvidual, pace.
A Montessori classroom is a multi-aged classroom in which older students are encouraged to share their knowledge with younger students. Children learn through discovery, leading to motivation, concentration, and self-discipline.
Want to learn more about Montessori education? Check out these websites:
- Maria Montessori.com: www.mariamontessori.com
- American Montessori Society: www.amshq.org
"Education is a natural process carried out by the child and is not acquired by listening to words, but by experiences in the environment."
--Dr. Maria Montessori