"Our aim is not merely to make children understand, but so to touch their imaginations as to enthuse them to their innermost core." Maria Montessori

The North Fork Community Montessori School's mission is to nurture each child's natural desire to learn and passion for discovery. The school stresses innovative problem solving and encourages life-long learning.

In a creatively-structured environment, inclusive of all cultures, we will promote excellence in academics, art and life skills, while respecting individual uniqueness. We strive to inspire responsibility and respect for self, community and environment.

Address:

397 Bulldog St.

Hotchkiss, CO 81419

 

Phone: (970) 872-5910

Fax: (970) 872-5901 

Who was Maria Montessori?

Maria Montessori became the first woman Doctor of Medicine in Italy.  She graduated from the University of Rome in 1896.

In 1908, Montessori started the first "Casa de Bambini" (House of Children) in the slum area of San Lorenzo in Rome.  She was innovative and soon word spread around the world of her work and the amazing children in her school.

Montessori wrote 25 books on the various aspects of her theory including her views on education for peace. Below are a few links to mor information on Maria Montessori:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maria_Montessori 

http://www.montessori.edu/maria.html 

 

What is Montessori Education?

A Montessori classroom is a happy and joyful place for a child to be.  Each child develops and learns at  his/her own pace.  The children are respected and in turn they learn to respect themselves, their peers, and their environment.  

Academics are introduced to young children by means of concrete, hands on materials.  As the children progress, the materials lead into the abstract.

Though academic achievement is usually very high among Montessori children, the true value lies in the development of self-discipline, self-mastery, and love of learning.  Because unique and fascinating academic materials are available, most children begin to read and calculate at an early age.

Music, art, drama, and cultural studies are an integral part in the Montessori curriculum.  They are carefully interwoven into the daily activities and projects essential to the ongoing development of the "whole child."

The teachers prepare an environment that is appropriate for each age group.  Materials are attractive and well kept.  Art prints, animals, and plants, surrounded the child in a place where it becomes a joy to learn.

 

For more information on the Montessori method, follow the links below:

http://www.montessori-namta.org/namta/geninfo/whatismont.html

http://www.montessori.edu/FAQ.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montessori_method
 

 

Suggested Reading:

Montessori Today by Paula Polk Lillard

Montessori, A Modern Approach by Paula Polk Lillard

The Absorbent Mind by Maria Montessori

The Montessori Approach by Maria Montessori
 

The NFCMS Board is comprised of volunteers. Currently, it has 6 members:

• Christy Eller, Chair
• Jan Thompson, Secretary
• Jim Maulhardt, Treasurer
• Ron Edmondson
• Greta Gibb
• Tim Lafferty

New members are always welcome. There are also several committees that do important work for the school:

• Accountability Committee
• Budget Committee
• Fundraising Committee 

If you are interested in serving, please contact nfcms@yahoo.com.Below is a list of recent NFCMS Board Minutes: