Maria Montessori held the philosophy that children can be their own best teachers; that observing, sharing and interacting with each other can be one of the most creative learning processes available.

In keeping with this important learning principle, our classrooms contain more than one age and/or grade level. Preschool students make up the 2 1/2 through 5 year old classrooms. The elementary classrooms are typically comprised of two or three grade levels.

Out of such a learning environment, many beneficial events arise. Vital to any successful learning situation is the idea that each child possesses a truly positive self-image, seeing themself as in integral part of the group.

Cross-age grouping helps to insure that this ideal exists within the child. It enables the teacher to guide and direct the child toward meaningful tasks. The child is able to work at their own level regardless of what the "average" may be.

This approach is beneficial to students of all ability levels. Since each student is assessed individually, the teacher has the flexibility to assign groupings and assignments based upon the student's abilities and strengths rather than strictly by grade level.

Consequently, students are not confined to the restrictions of a rigid grade level based curriculum.