Jase began MSR in the toddler program in Ms. Ginny and Ms. Pam’s class. The compassion, love, and patience the Montessori teachers show Jase continues to shape my parenting. Four years later, I understand the difference in the Montessori method. We have felt the compassion from teachers helping us through difficult transitions. I have listened to the patient voices assuring me that phases pass. I have received advice that seemed counterintuitive but worked so beautifully. It is so apparent through the actions of the teachers that learning is key; however, I have witnessed that fostering the love of learning is a top priority. This is the thing I love the most about Montessori. I have watched the practical, hands-on learning style of Montessori and how the “work” they do in the classroom has shaped who Jase is becoming outside of a classroom. We try to foster the same environment at home with limited screen time and access to create what his imagination can dream, still following the “let them get dirty” attitude my mother let me experience. I don’t believe this possible without the alignment Montessori allows us to have. I often find myself watching him play or amazed that he enjoys doing his homework. Montessori is Home. The cliché saying that it takes a village is true; however, now I know selecting the right village is key. Until Jase’s third year of Primary, we had thought we would move him to public school. As we watch him grow academically and socially, we realize that Montessori feels like the right village for us.

Jennie Pruitt Mother of toddler/primary student