A Message from the Head of
School
Dear
Montessori Parents,
After just a few weeks of school, we see
this year settling into rhythm of work, energy, and joy. At the
beginning of the school year we bring together new communities. The single most important purpose of our work is
what Montessori called normalization. There is much more to childhood than most
recognize. Normalization is a technical word borrowed from the field of
anthropology. It means becoming a contributing member of society. Dr. Montessori used the term normalization
to distinguish one of the processes that she saw in her work with children at
San Lorenzo in Rome.
This process, the process of normalization, occurs when development is
proceeding normally.
Normalization appears through the
repetition of a three step cycle. The building of character and the formation
of personality comes about when children follow this cycle of work.
1)
Preparation for an activity which involves gathering
together the material necessary. The movement and
thought involved in the preparation serves to call the attention of the mind to
begin to focus on the activity.
2)
An activity which so engrosses the child that he
reaches a deep level of concentration. This step is what parents and educators
recognize as important for education.
3)
Rest, which is characterized by a general feeling of
satisfaction and well-being. At this point some inner formation or integration
of the person takes place.
There are many personality types, of
course. However, when children enter the process of normalization the same
characteristics appear.
There are four characteristics that are a
signal that the process of normalization is happening;
1)
Love of work
2)
Concentration
3)
Self-discipline
4)
Sociability
All
four characteristics must be present for us to say that normalization is
occurring.
Thank you for the cooperation and patience
you have exhibited during carpool. We know that the construction on the new
Elementary building inhibits normal traffic flow. We hope you are enjoying
seeing the progress on the new building. The children have enjoyed some
exciting days, especially, the day the big crane set the rafters.
This week we had our first "Music Around
the World" classes with Simon Spalding. Ten students are beginning their study
of violin in private lessons with Mr. Spalding. We have a waiting list for
interested students. If you would like your child to be added to the waiting
list, please let us know and we will put you in touch with Mr. Spalding. There
is a possibility of adding another day to the teaching schedule.
Thank you for the support of your child as
they continue their work at Montessori
School.
All
my best,
Peggy
Higgins
Head
of School
