I was happily surprised to learn of a “new” school in Miami. Cattoira Montessori School is not new, in fact it was founded in June 2002 with the idea of fostering love of learning and educate children to be caring, socially responsible citizens of our community and the world. The school that caters to children eighteen months through twelve years of age in three different programs: Toddler, Primary, and Elementary seeks to educate the whole child, applying the Montessori philosophy, in a family-oriented environment.
The core values of the school are to encourage independent, self-directed learning for life in a child-centered, international community valuing peace, respect for others and pride in individual difference. The philosophy is based on the principles of Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952) whose holistic vision of education focuses on the cognitive, social, emotional and physical needs of the child. The school has recently been accredited from toddlers through upper elementary by the International Montessori Council – meaning they have Montessori accredited teachers at each level and meet the rigorous Montessori standards of excellence. You would be surprised to walk into their Upper elementary program and see how 5th grade students work on Montessori manipulatives as well as others using ipads. Other children are in groups working on team projects, others role-playing while enjoying comfortable cushions in a lounge area - all of them engaged peacefully and learning.
I really enjoyed meeting the administrators, teachers and staff and getting to know some of the students. They seemed really engaged and motivated to learn and connect. What was really special is the exposure to nature that the kids have at all grade levels. The school has its own farm and an extended green playground, it is evident everywhere you look that there are opportunities to connect with the natural world abound.
Find below important info about the school. I encourage you to tour it if you are both interested in a whole child approach, Montessori, and a very family-friendly and nature-exposed learning environment.
Location: 9385 SW 79th AVE. Miami, FL 33156
Tel: 305.274.6509