The Montessori method of education, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori over a century ago, has grown into a worldwide movement. Today, there are several key institutions and organizations that support Montessori education, offering resources, training, and accreditation. Whether you’re a parent considering Montessori education for your child, an educator looking for training, or simply someone interested in this educational approach, these organizations are essential resources.
They provide guidance on implementing the Montessori principles in classrooms and homes, ensuring fidelity to the method. The Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) is one such organization that offers comprehensive training programs for educators and promotes the Montessori philosophy globally. Additionally, the American Montessori Society (AMS) is another prominent organization that provides support to schools and educators, offering resources, conferences, and certification programs. These organizations play a crucial role in upholding the standards of Montessori education and fostering a network of like-minded individuals passionate about this approach to learning.
Association Montessori Internationale-USA (AMI-USA)
Website: AMI-USA
Founded by Dr. Maria Montessori herself, AMI-USA is the U.S. branch of the Association Montessori Internationale. This organization is dedicated to upholding the original principles and practices of Montessori education. They offer teacher training programs, school accreditation, and a wealth of resources for both educators and parents. If you’re looking for an institution that closely aligns with Dr. Montessori’s original vision, AMI-USA is a good starting point.
The American Montessori Society (AMS)
Website: AMS
The American Montessori Society is one of the largest Montessori organizations in the world. It offers a variety of services including teacher education, school accreditation, and public policy advocacy. AMS also hosts an annual conference, bringing together Montessori educators, researchers, and advocates from around the globe. Their website is a treasure trove of resources, from research papers to classroom materials.
International Montessori Council (IMF)
The International Montessori Council is a global community of Montessori educators and schools. While it doesn’t offer accreditation like AMI or AMS, it provides a platform for Montessori schools and educators to network, share best practices, and collaborate on initiatives. IMF focuses on promoting peace education, environmental sustainability, and global citizenship through the Montessori method.
National Center for Montessori
Website: National Center for Montessori
The National Center for Montessori is dedicated to the advancement of Montessori education in public sectors. They offer support, resources, and research to public Montessori schools and educators. If you’re interested in the intersection of Montessori education and public schooling, this is an invaluable resource.
Montessori Foundation
Website: Montessori Foundation
The Montessori Foundation is a non-profit organization that offers a wide range of services to Montessori educators and schools. They provide leadership training, school consultation, and a variety of publications, including the Montessori Leadership magazine. Their website also features a rich library of articles, webinars, and other educational materials.
Montessori Census
Website: Montessori Census
The Montessori Census is an initiative aimed at gathering comprehensive data on Montessori education across the United States. It provides valuable insights into the state of Montessori education, including the number of schools, student demographics, and more. This data is crucial for researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in the growth and impact of Montessori education.
Conclusion
These organizations play a pivotal role in shaping, supporting, and promoting Montessori education worldwide. They offer a range of services and resources that are invaluable for anyone involved in or considering Montessori education. By familiarizing yourself with these institutions, you can gain a deeper understanding of what Montessori education is all about and how you can be a part of this transformative approach to learning.
For more information on Montessori education and job opportunities, you can visit Teach Montessori.