Considering the Montessori philosophy was chosen as the curriculum for SUIMA, the next few articles will focus on Montessori encompasses in the area of learning. The Montessori education is a method of education for children from birth through age eighteen.  It is based upon principles developed by Dr. Maria Montessori throughout her life. The focus of this method is the creation and theory behind the materials, educational techniques, and observations, which support the natural development of children.   

The teacher in a Montessori classroom serves less as an “instructor” and more as a guide and facilitator. Children are encouraged to “learn how to learn,” thus gaining independence and self-confidence.  Because the method is based upon developmentally appropriate activities, the child often learns the process of education by doing.  

Montessori classrooms are designed to accommodate various stages of development in children, which occur in roughly three-year cycles.  From birth to three years of age, three to six years, six to nine, and so on. Because the child goes through these various stages, Montessori classrooms are organized into three-year groups.  This allows a greater flexibility in meeting each child’s individual needs and permits the child to develop with fewer social transitions.  The environment becomes the “teacher,” with the child as the initiator of their own education. What makes Montessori education unique is the “whole-child” approach.  More about this in my next article.  

We’d also like to thank a few departments who have helped us get this school year off to a good start:   

• Natural Resources for assisting us with field trips and environmentally based, hands-on learning. 

• SUIT Motor Pool for letting us park our bus snuggly next to your building. 

• Risk Management for assisting with our safety drills. 

• Food Distribution for supporting us as we teach the students about healthy foods. 

• Ignacio Community Library for bringing their bookmobile “Dewey” weekly. 

• Dancing Spirit for providing art to our after-school programs. 

Upcoming Events  

• Every Friday at 2 p.m. – Early Release Days  

• Sept. 20 – No School due to Professional Development Day 

• Sept. 27 – All levels participate in the SU Agriculture Farm pumpkin patch 

• Oct. 3 – SUIMA School Board meeting, 12 p.m. at the school 

• Oct. 10 – School picture day 

• Oct. 14 – No School, Indigenous Peoples’ Day 

• Oct. 15 – Parent Advisory Group meeting 

• Oct. 16 – Family Night