METHODOLOGY OF LEARNING

The program of our school utilizes the Montessori curriculum as a central methodology of learning for the pre-operational (ages 2–7) child. We feel that Montessori curriculum offers the child the freedom of choice to learn and explore the wonderful world that awaits each and every child. This is the period Maria Montessori termed as the "sensitive period of the absorbent mind," which means that a child must perform some particular work because their mind needs that special piece of information to grow. We also feel that every child should be viewed as a "whole child" that learns at different rates and in different ways. It is the mark of a good school that knows each and every child to address those needs that their developing mind requires.

We employ a daily recording system to monitor and determine what each child is learning and at what rate. At our bi-annual parent-teacher conferences, we share the data gathered with each parent. In this way, the school and the parents are active partners in the child's educational endeavors. All of the professional staff at our school are certified by the State of California, some hold bachelor's and master's degrees, State of California teaching credentials, and American Montessori Society pre-primary teaching certificates. On average, staff members have been with the school between 5–7 years. In addition to the Montessori classroom time, the children are able to participate in structured music instruction given by a graduate of the Peabody Conservatory of Music. Dramatic play is offered and monthly field trips are scheduled to local areas of interest, such as Lawrence Hall of Science, The Oakland Zoo and The Little Farm at Tilden Park. Mountain Boulevard Pre-School Learning Center and Montessori–A Child's Kindergarten is a full affiliate member of the American Montessori Society (AMS), National Association for Education of Young Children (NAEYC), and Professional Association for Childhood Education (PACE).