Toddler House-ages 18 months to 3 years

academic oncepts. In order for the mind to process learning, learning must first be

done through the hands. Before age six, a child learns from direct contact with the environment, by means of all the senses, and through movement, the child literally absorbs what is in the carefully prepared classroom. Toddler children are provided with a fluid learning environment and hands-on activities that meet their developmental needs in the areas of cognition, gross & fine motor skills, language, independence, and social skills.

Preschool-ages 3-6 years

Children are eligible for the preschool class at age three. In keeping with Montessori tradition, there is a multi-age group of three to six year olds in the morning program. The children remain with their classmates and teachers for three years. This allows children expanding opportunities for work and social interaction.

Kindergarten

The kindergarten children remain together in the afternoon for special activities appropriate for their stage of development. The peer group becomes important at this age and the children enjoy their special time together. This afternoon group has an opportunity to know the feeling of team cooperation while developing leadership skills. Continuing the child in the Montessori program in the kindergarten year allows him/her to realize concepts and skills that were previously experienced and practiced, but not yet mastered.

 

Transition Class (ages 5-7)

This program is designed for children who may need expanded curriculum opportunities in a setting that supports emotional and social development without the larger age span of a lower elementary classroom.  It is rich in math, language and reading, and the cultural subjects.  The 5 year old does not have the full range of Practical Life and Sensorial materials that are available in a 3-6 year old classroom. 

The teaching team includes one Montessori teacher with 3-6 certification and the other with 6-9 Montessori certification.

 

Elementary (Lower grades 1-3) (Upper grades 4-6)

The Elementary program is designed to promote a love of knowledge, a high level of personal independence, and a lasting sense of self worth and academic competence. Each student is encouraged

to work at his or her individual potential and to develop, both academically and socially, to the best of his or her own ability. At Heartwood, students are able to learn at their own pace. The supportive peer group setting allows for social growth. A relaxed atmosphere is combined with a sense of order and understanding. Learning is a natural part of this environment.

A strong educational program is presented, with the excitement inherent in a thriving Montessori class. The curriculum includes, but is not limited to, traditional areas of study. The interest and the needs of the student come first.

Middle School  (Grades 7-9)

The overall goal of the Middle School is to help the whole student develop while imparting the academic tools necessary for success in high school, college, and the working environment.

The adolescent from ages 12-15 is experiencing a significant transformation into a new plane of development. This period of growth is marked by dramatic physical and psychological changes. It is the time in life when students need solidarity with peers, question rules and beliefs, and exhibit an increased desire for independence.

Dr. Maria Montessori suggests that in order to serve the needs of the adolescent, educators must provide them with meaningful work opportunities, opportunities to contribute to the community, to plan activities, to serve as leaders and make decisions, and, of course, to make mistakes along the way. At Heartwood, we provide these opportunities, create a strong sense of community and work toward building positive relationships with peers and adults, while maintaining high academic standards and having a lot of fun learning.

Enrichment

Spanish, P.E., Art, Keyboarding, and Music are a part of weekly lessons at Heartwood. The school also has a physical education program which includes field trips for roller skating, gymnastics, swimming, and bowling. Children at Heartwood go on monthly field trips throughout the year as part of their educational experience.