What is Montessori?

The Montessori Method is an approach to education that emphasizes the potential of the young child. The philosophy of education is that every child carries within himself the person he or she is to become. In order to develop the physical, intellectual, and spiritual powers, the prepared environment, which already possesses a sense of order, disposes the child to develop at his own pace in a noncompetitive atmosphere.

In the early school years, the child must have the true freedom to achieve order and self-discipline. Montessori is designed to help all children reach their fullest potential. Each child has varying abilities, and Montessori provides an environment where everyone learns from one another and everyone contributes. The child learns according to his/her OWN individual needs and capabilities.

More information on the Montessori Method is available at websites listed on the Links page.

History of Montessori

Doctor Maria Montessori, though a practicing physician, developed this philosophy of education. She believed that if provided with adequate stimulation during the unusually “receptive periods,” between the ages of three and six, the child would naturally move toward learning. She invented an array of materials and methods based on her scientific studies.

The materials are designed to correspond with the child’s physical and mental development. Great emphasis is place on Motor and Sensory Education, as well as Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Music, and Art.

Butler Montessori School

Butler Montessori was founded in 1974 by Sister Mary Giuseppe, R.S.M. of the Sisters of Mercy. Sister Giuseppe was the driving force behind the success of the school until 2001. At that time, the new director, Mrs. Paula Mack, continued the tradition. Presently, Butler Montessori enrolls over 45 students each year.

Every parent who has ever enrolled a child in the Butler Montessori School program, and any student who has attended, can attest to its value and endurance in the future education of each student.

The school is state certified by the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Academic Schools, and is a nonprofit organization. Butler Montessori is a lifetime member of the National Center for Montessori Education.