About
Maria Montessori Academy (MMA) is a tuition-free public elementary and junior high charter school located in North Ogden, UT. Maria Montessori Academy opened in 2010 and offers parents a choice in free public education for kindergarten through ninth grade.
Maria Montessori Academy is built upon the educational legacy of Dr. Maria Montessori who believed that all children are uniquely intelligent. The Montessori Method focuses on the whole child and facilitating the development of the child’s independence and sense of personal empowerment.
Apply now to enjoy an education UNIQUELY DESIGNED FOR YOUR CHILD!
Our Mission
The mission of Maria Montessori Academy is to provide an individualized education that promotes academic excellence founded on the authentic philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori. Maria Montessori Academy will craft each child’s education in partnership with educators and parents to achieve higher levels of academic, personal and social achievement, thereby preparing students to become constructive contributors to their community.
For more detailed information about Maria Maria Montessori charter school elementary and junior high, view our Montessori 101 presentation.
Key Points of the Montessori Method of Education
- Montessori schools promote respect for children as unique individuals. The child’s social and emotional development along with academic development is of great concern.
- Montessori schools are supportive schools where children don’t get lost in the crowd.
- Peace education is paramount to the Montessori philosophy. Dr. Maria Montessori was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize three times in her lifetime.
- Classrooms are bright and exciting environments for learning.
- The classrooms are multi-age classes which span three grade levels—children develop close and long-term relationships with teachers and classmates.
- The multi-grade classroom encourages a strong sense of community and teachers come to know each child’s learning style.
- Classrooms are not teacher centered but child centered. This allows students to develop their leadership skills and independence.
- The Montessori method assumes that children are born intelligent, they simply learn in different ways and progress at their own pace. Multiple intelligences are recognized and encouraged. Students move ahead as quickly as they are ready.
- Texts and workbooks are rarely used because many of the skills and concepts are abstract and a text simply doesn’t bring them to life.
- Montessori relies on hands-on, concrete materials to introduce new concepts. Investigation and research are experiences that actively engage the student.
- Learning is not based on rote drill and memorization.
- Montessori schools set high expectations and challenges all students not just those considered “gifted”.
- The students develop self-discipline and an integral sense of purpose and motivation.
- Montessori schools normally promote diversity in their student body, creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and global perspective.
- Students develop a love of the natural world—outdoor education is a very important part of the Montessori curriculum.
- Students learn to care and contribute to others through their community service.
- Montessori teachers facilitate learning, coach students and come to know them as friends and mentors.
- Students learn that mistakes are natural steps in the learning process.
- Montessori students learn to collaborate and work together on major projects. They strive for their personal best in this non-graded environment rather than competing for the highest grade in the class.
- Families are important in these caring environments.