Introduction (added March 10, 2011)
This document was developed by the GMA School Board (Mission/Vision) and the Head of School (Cornerstones) in December 2010. Geist Montessori Academy was at that time, and still is, in a period of rapid growth and staff development. Therefore, the Board, at its regular meeting on March 9, 2011, agreed by motion to attach an implementation date by which the school community can reasonably be expected to fully meet these expectations. That date was established to be the beginning of the 2013-14 school year. In the meatime, all governance and operational decisions will be made with these guidelines in mind.
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.
At Geist Montessori Academy each child grows socially, intellectually, and ethically in a structured environment characterized by freedom and respect. Based on Dr. Maria Montessori’s innovative philosophy of education, our mission is to help children:
Long after attendance at GMA, children will benefit from these skills throughout their lifetime.
Vision
By embracing the Montessori educational philosophy enhanced to align with the GMA Curriculum and the IDOE State Standards, our students will attain academic excellence and are intrinsically motivated, independent thinkers who love to learn. They will be socially responsible and mature contributors to the world. Parental involvement in the educational process and a highly effective, committed staff will be at the core of our community.
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
School-strengthening Collaboration
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
High Quality Staff
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