"For the love of children" is the simple reason that I was a Montessori teacher for over a quarter century. I basked in their smiles, relished their inquisitive questions and their unabashed honesty. I even understood and appreciated their tears. Being in a nurturing Montessori community of children is one of the most challenging, but most rewarding professions on this Earthly plane.
I began as a traditionally trained elementary teacher and was looking for a teaching position when a friend by the name of Ed Collins suggested I visit Crystal Lake Montessori School in Woodstock, IL. I remember observing one of the primary classrooms and being in awe of both the peaceful nature of the classroom and the independence shown by the young students. I was so impressed, that I began training that very summer and from then on, Montessori became a lifelong passion.
Having mastered the myriad of nuances that comprise the Montessori method, I now offer my consulting services to schools that are striving to meet the needs of children. I know how to put an elementary program together that is well organized, congruent with Montessori philosophy, is teacher friendly, incorporates accountability and most importantly, strikes the imaginations of the students. Enthusing students with the love of learning for learning's sake, means lifelong learners who will ultimately excel at, and enjoy life.
Over the years, I've also developed a learning system called, "Montessori Plus". Using various organizational systems, classroom procedures, teaching methodologies and computer technologies to ultimately better meet the needs of students. Yes, meeting the individual needs of children in a social context needs to be the absolute imperative behind education. This learning system is encapsulated in my book, “Educational Beacons of Hope”, which is available on Amazon.