Montessori schools are well-known for their unique approach to education, emphasizing independence and creativity to foster holistic development in children. While Montessori education is commonly associated with younger children, there are also Montessori high schools that cater to students up to grade 12. These high schools share the same goals as their elementary counterparts, focusing on social, emotional, and cognitive growth, as well as experiential learning to prepare students for the future.
Montessori high schools are not as common as elementary and middle schools, with only about 150 of them in the United States compared to over 5,000 Montessori schools. These high schools are often referred to as “secondary programs” because they have a different structure than traditional four-year high schools. They enroll students ranging from ages 12 to 18, covering both middle school and high school years.
Secondary Montessori programs have their own unique approaches to education. They prioritize student-centered learning, allowing students to manage their time, make choices, and develop self-regulation skills. Independence, self-management, and responsibility are also key focuses of these programs. Additionally, group work and social solidarity play an important role in the learning process.
Montessori high schools encourage self-sufficiency in adolescents and place students in multi-aged groups to promote collaboration and peer learning. This approach is gaining popularity, leading to the establishment of more accredited Montessori secondary schools across the country.
For parents considering Montessori high schools, it’s important to note that these schools are relatively scarce. If a Montessori high school is not available in your area, there are alternative options to ease the transition from Montessori elementary to traditional public high school.
Transitioning to Public School
When moving from a Montessori school to a traditional public high school, there are a few key differences to be aware of in order to facilitate a smoother adjustment:
Relationship with Teachers
In Montessori schools, students often receive one-on-one help from their teachers in a student-centered environment. However, public high schools typically have larger class sizes, making individualized instruction less common. It’s essential for students to take the initiative to reach out to their teachers and seek help when needed. Building relationships with teachers can be achieved by actively participating in class, asking questions, and seeking clarification when something is not understood.
Competitive Environment
Montessori schools cultivate a supportive and collaborative community where teachers and students support one another. In contrast, public high schools often have a more competitive atmosphere due to factors such as standardized tests, grades, and lecture-style instruction. It’s important for students transitioning from Montessori to public school to avoid getting caught up in the competitiveness of grades and test scores. Instead, they should focus on cooperative learning, seeking help from teachers, and studying in groups.
Learning Requirements
The approach to learning in Montessori schools differs significantly from traditional public schools. Montessori education emphasizes student self-assessment, independence, and becoming active seekers of knowledge. In public schools, standardized testing plays a larger role, and instruction is geared towards achieving higher test scores. This transition can be quite jarring, so it’s important to remind students that self-exploration and a commitment to personal growth are still valued. Test scores and grades should not overshadow the joy of learning.
Preparing for College
There is a perception that transitioning from Montessori education to college can be challenging due to the self-directed nature of Montessori learning. However, studies have shown that students who have had a Montessori education perform similarly or even outperform their peers from public schools in standardized tests. Apart from academic preparedness, Montessori schools equip students with critical life skills that are valuable in college.
Montessori education helps students develop skills such as time management, collaboration, self-motivated learning, and independence. These skills are not always emphasized in traditional public schools. Montessori students have the freedom to explore their interests, which greatly aids tasks like choosing a major, getting involved in clubs, and making new friends in college.
Moreover, the collaborative nature of Montessori classrooms prepares students for the diverse and interactive environment of college. Montessori students are accustomed to learning from older peers and supporting younger ones. This fosters a collaborative mindset that aligns with the expectations of college education, where independent learning and exploring multiple academic interests are encouraged.
Choosing Montessori High School
While Montessori education is widely appreciated for its ability to instill a love of learning in children, deciding on a Montessori high school is a personal choice. Just like the Montessori philosophy, education should be tailored to the individual. It’s important to conduct thorough research to determine if a Montessori high school or a traditional public high school is the best fit for your child.
