Mission
The Montessori Academy at Geist provides an academically and culturally rich educational environment that allows children to acquire knowledge in a non-competitive, individualized manner. We recognize that many environmental factors act upon the development of the child, and seek to prepare a school environment that encourages joyful learning, and greater exploration of the community and the world. Academics integrate with character building and community awareness to form a whole-child curriculum that prepares our students for life.
Vision
Geist Montessori Academy, guided by the educational philosophy and curriculum of Dr. Maria Montessori, promotes the development of each child in a safe, carefully prepared environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, cooperation, and critical thinking. At Geist Montessori Academy, all school community members demonstrate respect for themselves, others, and the school environment.
At Geist Montessori Academy, our students will
? love the process of learning
? achieve academic success at a natural pace
? have strong social skills
? possess positive work habits
? find purpose and value in work
? solve problems and correct errors themselves
? be confident and joyful
? work well independently and collaboratively
? feel strong in mind, body and spirit
? respect and appreciate community
? be curious and excited about the world around them
Cornerstones
Geist Montessori Academy is charged to achieve its vision in the context of a grade K-8 public charter school. To do so, the board, administration, and staff commit to the following cornerstones:
Preeminent Public Montessori
Provide a free Montessori education enhanced to ensure alignment with the Montessori Curriculum and the IDOE State Standards
Promote high levels of student achievement
Measure achievement in multiple ways and use assessment data to inform instruction
Promote a school wide culture of respect, open and honest communication, high expectations, and continuous growth through self-reflection
Continuously prepare to serve learners with great diversity in socio-economic backgrounds and in learning needs and styles.
Holistic Student Development
Give students meaningful and engaging work that excites and challenges
Engage students in activities that teach them how to be competent, caring contributors to our community
Model and promote Montessori values of grace, courtesy, respect, and responsibility
Teach cooperative learning, conflict resolution, and self-correction skills
Respect each student’s unique learning style by individually tailoring learning supports
Allow students to experience the intrinsic reward that comes from selection of work and its mastery
Encourage students to take ownership for their academic and personal development
Encourage curiosity, creativity, and exploration
Create teacher-parent-student partnerships to support student learning
Involve and vest parents, teachers, and students in the school’s decision-making process and volunteer efforts
Develop partnerships with local agencies, community service organizations, and businesses to enhance children’s health and learning (e.g. internships, service learning, etc)
Share information and best practices with other educators and community members, particularly Montessori practitioners
Require lead teachers to hold a Montessori diploma and to obtain highly qualified status
Educate all staff regarding Montessori philosophy and GMA curriculum, culture and processes
Maintain high standards for accomplished teaching and learning
Provide adequate compensation
Evaluate teaching staff regularly for achievement of GMA's vision for students.
Financial Stability and Sustainability
Ensure necessary financial oversight and protection policies are in place
Ensure expenses are matched by revenue
Prepare and examine financial forecasts to ensure long-term corporate viability