MSLF News

Human Tendencies: Why Montessori Still Feels So Relevant

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 03:10:19 GMT

From curiosity to self-control, Montessori aligns with the human tendencies that help children grow, adapt, and flourish.

When Dr. Maria Montessori was observing children’s development, she wasn’t just focused on how they learn in the classroom. She was curious about the drives, instincts, and patterns that have shaped humans across time.

These human tendencies are the forces that have guided our species since the very beginning, helping us adapt, survive, and thrive. And when we recognize them in children, we can create environments that don’t fight against human nature, but flow with it.

Here’s a closer look at some of these tendencies, and how they show up in both history and our children’s lives.

Orientation

At its root, orientation literally means turning toward the east and the rising sun. For early humans, orientation meant survival through knowing where to find water, food, or shelter, as well as recognizing the stars and using them to navigate.

As adults, we still crave orientation when we move to a new place, start a new job, or even visit an unfamiliar store. We rely on guides, rituals, and familiar touchstones to help us settle.

Children, too, need orientation. The way they’re welcomed on their first day in a classroom, where they put their belongings, what routines they can count on—all of this helps them feel secure. Even a simple “good morning” is a daily act of re-orientation that matters more than we sometimes realize. Children look for orientation in daily rhythms: the bedtime routine, knowing which shelf holds their favorite books, or even how breakfast is served each morning.

Exploration

From the moment we are born, we explore. Infants use their mouths, eyes, and hands. Toddlers climb stairs like they’re scaling mountains. Older children explore through research, imagination, and adventures into both history and science.

Exploration is how humans pushed across continents, learned to farm, crossed oceans, and now even travel into space. Our curiosity never stops. Montessori environments honor this by giving children real opportunities to investigate the world, whether that means calculating the area of the classroom or researching life in the Carboniferous period. We see our children exploring as they turn over rocks in the backyard, take apart a toy to see how it works, or invent new rules for a favorite game.

Order

We all know the relief of an organized kitchen drawer or a well-structured calendar. Order helps us make sense of life. For early humans, ordering the world by figuring out what was safe versus unsafe or edible rather than poisonous ensured survival.

Young children need physical order. Anyone who’s seen a toddler melt down because their bedtime story was read “out of order” or because the blanket wasn’t arranged in just the right way knows this is real. Montessori classrooms respect this sensitive period by offering environments that are consistent and predictable. At home, you may notice your child lining up toy cars, insisting on a particular bedtime ritual, or sorting stuffed animals by size.

By the elementary years, order shifts into the mental realm. Children now want to classify animals, chart types of mountains, or debate the “rules” of their group. They’re learning not just order in things, but order in ideas, logic, and morality. You’ll see this at home when children organize their collections, invent complicated rules for backyard play, or argue passionately about fairness.

Self-Control

Self-control has always been key to survival. Hunters had to move silently. Communities relied on cooperation. Today, self-regulation is one of the biggest predictors of success in school and life.

In Montessori environments, self-control grows naturally: waiting for a material to become available, choosing the right time to speak, or practicing social courtesies. When children find deep concentration in meaningful work, that sense of inner discipline blossoms. We may notice our children waiting patiently to blow out birthday candles, saving allowance for a bigger purchase, or calming themselves after a disagreement with a sibling.

Imagination

Imagination isn’t just for artists. It’s what allowed early humans to picture tools before they were built, imagine migration routes, or dream up stories around a fire.

For children, imagination expands exponentially in the elementary years. Suddenly, they’re not only absorbing the world, they are imagining other worlds. Dinosaurs, outer space, ancient civilizations, atoms…nothing is off-limits! Montessori taps into this by giving children the universe itself as their curriculum. Imagination at home might unfold through elaborate pretend play, story writing, or inventing new games with household objects.

Abstraction

Abstraction is the ability to pull an idea from an experience. Early humans drew symbols on cave walls. Today, we live in a world of abstractions: math, laws, justice, and freedom.

Children naturally move toward abstraction, but only after being fully grounded in hands-on experience. Montessori materials are designed as “materialized abstractions,” allowing children to build concepts with their hands before holding them in their minds. We see children developing abstraction when they begin to understand time (“after lunch,” “in three days”), use symbols in drawing or writing, or play games that rely on imaginary rules.

Activity, Work, Movement, and Experience

Humans are doers. From stone tools to skyscrapers, everything we know about early humans comes from their work. Dr. Montessori believed, echoing Kahlil Gibran, that “work is love made visible.”

For children, work isn’t drudgery. Rather, work is joy. Whether pouring water, building long math equations, or researching volcanoes, children grow through purposeful activity. Movement is not a distraction from learning, but a pathway into it. Children eagerly help bake, sweep, carry groceries, or build forts. This is joyful work that feels both purposeful and fun.

Repetition

Watch a toddler stacking blocks again and again, or a preschooler repeating a pouring exercise 40 times in a row. Repetition for young children is how they achieve a deep sense of mastery.

Older children still repeat, but they do it differently. They elaborate, amplify, and push concepts further: instead of practicing small sums, they’ll dive into giant multiplication problems just for the thrill of it. At home, this shows up when our children want the same story read every night, practice a cartwheel over and over, or endlessly build new versions of the same LEGO design.

Exactness and Self-Perfection

Humans have always needed exactness, whether it was a sharp spear or a stable bridge. Children share this drive. They beam when their handwriting is neat, or when they finally get something just right.

Linked to exactness is the tendency toward self-perfection. Children don’t just want to do it. They want to do it well. You see this tendency in the toddler learning to zip a coat, the elementary child striving to be fair, or the adolescent wrestling with big moral questions. The tendency shows up when our children insist on re-tying their shoelaces until they’re perfectly even, redoing a drawing until it’s just right, or correcting themselves when they mispronounce a new word.

Communication and Belonging

At the heart of it all is our need to connect. Communication, whether through language, art, music, or technology, has always been how we share knowledge and emotions. Belonging is what makes us human, and we create this connection in various ways, joining together in families, tribes, clubs, or communities.

Children live these tendencies out loud. They talk endlessly, write stories, create clubs, and invent games. Classroom and family rituals, shared meals, whispered secrets between siblings or friends help children know they belong.

Why This Matters

These human tendencies remind us that education isn’t about filling children with information. It’s about nurturing what is already inside them.

When Montessori said we should “follow the child,” she wasn’t suggesting we leave them to wander aimlessly. She meant we should pay attention to these deep, universal drives and prepare environments where these drives can manifest in positive ways.

Because when children’s natural tendencies are honored, they don’t just learn. They grow into the kind of humans who can orient themselves in a new world, explore with curiosity, build with order, imagine boldly, and belong with others in peace.

Why Choose Montessori?

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 21:37:06 GMT

Anthropic co-founder Benjamin Mann on why he chose Montessori for his daughter

Would it surprise you to hear that a leader in AI sends his children to Montessori school?

During a recent interview on Lenny Rachitsky's podcast ( https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/podcast ), Anthropic co-founder Benjamin Mann shared why he chose Montessori for his daughter:

"If this were 10-20 years ago, I'd be lining her up for top-tier schools and extracurriculars. But at this point, I don't think any of it's gonna matter. Our three-year-old goes to a Montessori school, and I just love the focus on curiosity, and creativity, and self-led learning that Montessori has. That's exactly the kind of education that I think is most important. Learning facts is gonna fade into the background."

As we prepare to begin another school year at MSLF, we're proud to provide our children and their families that very focus: curiosity, creativity, and self-led learning! Happy new school year!

View the interview clip here:

- https://bit.ly/lennys-podcast-montessori

- https://youtu.be/WWoyWNhx2XU?si=HFbK4EjFnUstZJX_&t=1316

Watch the full interview online here:

- https://youtu.be/WWoyWNhx2XU?si=3X_5BJgbw94EI3Lq

#montessorieducation #montessori #MSLF #educationforlife #curiosity #creativity #selfledlearning #techleaderschoosemontessori

MSLF Overnight Trips Build Independence and Confidence for Elementary and Adolescent Program Students

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 17:22:26 GMT

At MSLF, overnight trips become an important part of Montessori learning beginning in Lower Elementary. Each trip is carefully planned to meet the developmental needs of students in the second and third plane of development , with each overnight trip getting progressively longer to ease children into these independent journeys away from their families. These aren't just trips - they're carefully crafted opportunities for students to discover who they are, what they're capable of, and how they can contribute to their community and the wider world.

Beginning in their first year of Lower Elementary, students take their first MSLF overnight trip to Nature’s Classroom in Wisconsin. For many Lower Elementary students, this trip represents their first nights away from home. During their trip they explore the outdoors, work together in groups, use their practical life skills during community meals, and grow! It’s this first overnight trip for MSLF students where parents and staff remark how students come back almost transformed after being able to develop their independence in a supportive environment.

Our Upper Elementary classroom has embarked on overnight trips to both Camp Timber-lee in Wisconsin and The Country Experience at Amstutz Family Farm in Elizabeth, IL. Both locations provide students with increasing opportunities to apply their practical life skills, like checking the weather to ensure they have weather-appropriate gear for their trip. Every task empowers them to develop self-reliance and problem-solving skills. These trips are also opportunities for the students to get to know one another and build strong relationships with their peers and with the adults in their classroom.

Adolescent Program students at MSLF have opportunities to visit both Springfield, IL and Washington, DC . These overnight trips tie directly into their studies – connecting curriculum learned in the classroom to experiences in the wider community. They often take their learning on the road, for example by watching a legislative session in action in Springfield to see which bills are passed during their trip or presenting their research papers at monuments in Washington, DC. And for these students, the skills they built on their trips in Lower Elementary and Upper Elementary are put to work, as they pack their own bags, learn more about public transportation, and plan their daily itineraries to make the most out of their visit.

Experiences like these at MSLF support the child’s independence, laying the groundwork for transitions in later life: the start of high school, going away to college, a first job, and beyond. As they conquer challenges outside their comfort zone, their confidence soars, laying the foundation for the autonomy and independence they will continue to utilize throughout their Montessori experience and beyond. It’s good for parents, too, to see how truly capable our children are!

Forbes Article: The Surprising Health Benefits Of Montessori Education

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 21:36:33 GMT

Forbes Article highlights mental health benefits of Montessori education

A recent Forbes article highlights how Montessori's cooperative education vs. competitive education provides better mental health outcomes for children. The article's author states:

"But many people don’t realize that, along with some of the more well-known practical benefits associated with Montessori education, there are also a host of mental health benefits. These include improved emotional stability, increased confidence, better cognitive function and reduced stress and anxiety among children who attend Montessori schools."

Here's our favorite section:

What are the mental health benefits of Montessori education?

Beyond improved academic performance, the less rigid teaching environment of Montessori education means "there is a lot less stress, anxiety, and pressure to perform," says Franchek.

"A guiding Montessori philosophy is 'freedom within limits,’" echoes Johnson. "Our children know that if something doesn’t work out exactly as intended the first time, it’s a good lesson learned to build on for the next attempt." This approach builds confidence and improves executive function skills, says Lillard.

There’s also an element of growth that occurs when children learn in an environment where manners, mutual respect and consideration for others are taught and exemplified. "Montessori really emphasizes psychological safety," says Franchek. "The environment is highly predictable, so children have a space where they feel supported and respected."

The approach seems to be working. "In one of our studies, we collected hair samples of students in public Montessori schools and compared them to ones from students in conventional public schools to test for cortisol—a stress indicator for the prior two to three months of a person’s life," says Lillard. "We learned that stress levels were lower in students at Montessori schools."

Even more compelling, the health benefits of Montessori education appear to have staying power. "Adults who attended Montessori schools as children have higher adult wellbeing than those who attended only conventional schools," says Lillard, "and we've seen that the longer they attended, the higher their wellbeing."

Full article can be found here:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/darylaustin/2025/02/18/the-surprising-health-benefits-of-montessori-education/

MSLF Retirement Announcement

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 17:32:20 GMT

Dear MSLF Community,

After over 20 years of teaching Lower Elementary students at MSLF, Kathryn Jasinski has shared her plans to retire from teaching at the end of the current school year. There is no doubt about the impact Miss Jasinski has had on our school community during her long tenure here. Kathryn has been well known for her dedication to her students, to developing the whole child, and for her passion for Montessori education, always staying true to the core tenets of Montessori philosophy. Her legacy at MSLF will certainly live on in each of the students who have been lucky enough to have been in her class and in the many words of wisdom she has shared with her fellow colleagues, past and present. No doubt each one of her current or former students who receives a note from her in the mail instantly recognizes her perfect cursive writing and the thoughtful note inside. Kathryn’s care of her students extends well beyond their time in her classroom as she has kept in touch with dozens of her former students and has even welcomed some back to work alongside her as assistants. She has been a mentor to many, imparting her years of expertise on all those who have had the privilege of working with her. While we are sad to see her go, we know that she will enjoy her well-earned retirement, and we look forward to celebrating Kathryn’s legacy more this year.

MSLF is pleased to announce that Laura Earls will be the new Lower Elementary lead teacher for the 2025-26 school year. Laura has been co-teaching in our Upper Elementary classroom since the beginning of the current school year. Laura Earls joined the MSLF team from Higher Ground Education where she was Regional Program Lead, working to elevate program quality in all Guidepost Montessori schools across the Chicago area. It was during this work that she realized how much she missed working directly with children in the Montessori classroom and decided to return to teaching. Laura received her BA in art history from the University of Dallas and completed graduate work at the University of Notre Dame. Soon after, Laura shifted her career to education and earned her AMI Elementary Montessori Certification (6-12 years old) at the Montessori Institute of Milwaukee. She then taught in an Elementary classroom at Forest Bluff School, and her classroom was profiled in Paula Polk Lillard’s book, Montessori Today. After moving to Wisconsin to raise her three children, Laura received her AMI Primary Montessori Certification (3-6 years old) at the Midwest Montessori Institute. After that, she worked as a Primary Directress and Director of Admissions at a Montessori school in Wisconsin, as Head of School of Forest Bluff School, and as Senior Head of School at Guidepost Montessori. Laura has three grown children who all experienced Montessori education themselves and are thriving in college and beyond. Laura has lived and studied in both Paris and Rome and is an accomplished pianist. Laura is excited to make the transition to the Lower Elementary classroom and looks forward to working closely with current and new Lower Elementary families next year. She also looks forward to meeting families in the Lower Elementary classroom during the Open House on February 5.

With Laura transitioning to the Lower Elementary classroom following the current school year, MSLF will be conducting a search for a new co-teacher to work alongside Debbie Lincoln in the Upper Elementary classroom for the 2025-26 school year. We are thankful to Laura for all the support she has offered the Upper Elementary community this year.

Please join me in wishing Kathryn a peaceful and fulfilling retirement and in welcoming Laura to the Lower Elementary community.

Sincerely,

Hope Allegretti

Head of School - Executive Director

Montessori School of Lake Forest

Montessori Assessments at MSLF

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 18:24:09 GMT

An overview of how Montessori schools assess student progress and development

We are excited to continue to provide our families with clear and comprehensive information about how a Montessori education at MSLF best serves each of our students. Today, we share with you an overview of Montessori assessments. Assessing a child’s academic progress in a Montessori environment involves a different approach than traditional educational settings. Below you will find the five key elements to Montessori assessments.

We hope this information helps to guide your understanding of the breadth and depth of the Montessori curriculum and how this investment in your child’s education will truly serve them well into the future.

HOW DO MONTESSORI SCHOOLS ASSESS STUDENT PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT?

Assessing a child’s academic progress in a Montessori environment involves a different approach than traditional educational settings. The focus is on human development rather than an educational model, emphasizing individualized learning and holistic development. Assessments of children’s progress are done by observation of the work and abilities of the children and there is a greater emphasis on the child's engagement, concentration, and learning process rather than just the final outcome.

At MSLF, there are five key elements to assessments:

THE PREPARED ENVIRONMENT

The classroom is carefully designed with age-appropriate materials and activities readily accessible, allowing children to choose their work independently. Materials provide a natural control of error that allows the child to assess their own work and correct independently. Children are encouraged to select activities that interest them within the prepared environment, fostering autonomy and self-directed learning. This carefully crafted space designed to meet the child’s developmental needs is the cornerstone of a Montessori education. Without this carefully prepared space, teachers would not be able to effectively execute their roles in the Montessori classroom.

OBSERVATION AND DOCUMENTATION

The main tool for assessment used by all Montessori teachers is observation . Observing without judgment is one of the most vital teaching tools we have to "follow the child," recognize their needs, and assist them in finding their strengths and capabilities.

Montessori teachers regularly observe and document each child’s progress in various areas, including academic skills, social development, and practical life activities. Through observation, instead of coming up with an idea of what we want to teach them, they show us what they want to learn, and then we can see how we can support that. A teacher who is gifted in the science of observation can help children overcome difficulties and redirect their interest when necessary. Being knowledgeable of the curriculum for the age, a teacher, from observation, is also able to make plans for future work. When the teacher observes that a student has mastered a concept or skill, they can introduce new lessons. The plans are reviewed frequently and serve as a guide for the teacher’s next steps. Students in our Elementary and Adolescent programs might be given simple quizzes or tests to measure their understanding. This feedback is then used to tailor student lessons.

In Montessori, teachers focus on individual students’ progress; it is not a teacher’s duty to make sure all students master the same set of skills at the same time. Children are assessed based on their own developmental progress, not compared to peers, and are given opportunities to work at their own pace.

LEARNING JOURNALS AND PORTFOLIOS

When children advance into our Elementary and Adolescent classrooms, they begin to record their work as well as plans for their work. This is done in learning journals and portfolios and can represent a sample of their work, progress over time, and areas of focus. These materials offer a tangible record of your child’s academic achievements and serve as a valuable tool for tracking growth. Students also begin to have regular one-on-one conferences with their teacher, which helps the teacher assess the child’s progress.

PARENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATION

Regular communication with parents helps to ensure alignment between home and school learning environments. It is important to maintain open communication with your child’s Montessori teacher, making sure to share any observations from home or family changes that may impact your child’s focus or behavior at school. In between scheduled fall and spring conferences, teachers can also provide insights into your child’s development and offer suggestions for supporting their learning at home.

FALL AND SPRING CONFERENCES

At MSLF, we offer fall and spring conferences to provide parents valuable insights into your child’s academic growth and interests. It is important for all parents to be familiar with Montessori educational standards and MSLF’s Scope and Sequence for each developmental stage. These standards can help you understand typical academic progress in a Montessori environment and support your child’s learning journey. In addition, parents who participate in classroom observations and parent-child work sessions get additional insights into the work their child is doing in their classroom each day.

In our Adolescent Program, fall and spring conferences are Student-Led Conferences, allowing the student to showcase their work, discuss their learning experiences, and set goals.

STANDARDIZED ASSESSMENTS

Beginning at the Lower Elementary level, students are introduced to an assessment called aimswebPlus. AimswebPlus is a universal screener that is given three times a year to students in grades 1-8 at MSLF. The main purpose in offering a short assessment like aimswebPlus to students in a Montessori school is as a practical life work. As students transition to high school, assessments may be given online for some classes. In addition, students will likely have online standardized tests. Offering students the opportunity to practice online test taking as well as timed testing in a low-pressure environment helps ensure they are familiar with those test taking skills prior to high school. In addition, while the most important information about a student’s performance is based on teacher observation, mastery of Montessori works, and mastery of classroom curriculum, aimswebPlus is an additional data point that is used by administration and teachers to evaluate and understand student reading and math proficiency.

CONCLUSION

In Montessori, continual assessment is organically built into the essential functioning of an authentic classroom. Remember that Montessori education values the whole child and emphasizes progress across cognitive, social, emotional, and practical life domains. Academic advancement is just one aspect of your child’s overall development, and assessing their growth should consider a wide range of factors beyond traditional academic measurements. The daily use of observation combined with the ability of the learning materials to reveal a child’s understanding along with rigorous record keeping enable Montessori teachers to closely follow their students’ development. By collaborating with your child’s teachers, observing their progress at home, and engaging in open communication, you can gain valuable insights into your child’s academic standing and support their educational journey effectively.

Where can I learn more?

MSLF students are receiving a premier Montessori education in an environment designed to support how children learn best, which is backed by decades of scientific research. To learn more about education at MSLF, please review the MSLF Curriculum Scope & Sequence which was created to help parents better understand the Montessori curriculum and progression at each level.

Resources and references:

Happy Fall at MSLF! 🍂

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 17:01:43 GMT

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower. ''

- Albert Camus

What a beautiful season at MSLF! ��

Each season at MSLF brings its own special gift, but this year, autumn has been particularly amazing. Our warmer days and cool nights have made the changing of the colors last a bit longer than usual, giving us even more time to enjoy the spectacular color changes in our big backyard. Children have been able to spend more days exploring our outdoor environment and everything that autumn has to offer, from seed harvesting and distribution to collecting the wide variety of leaves from the trees on our 5.5 acres. We’ve also been able to see how the change in season changes some of our routines, including which shoes we need to wear as we go outside, and moving from making refreshing fruit salad to warm, comforting soup.

We are grateful for our Montessori lessons in our classrooms each day, but we are equally grateful to be surrounded by such a beautiful outdoor space, right here at school, to observe and learn all about the changing of seasons.

Wishing everyone a very happy fall! ��

Technology @ MSLF: Vision, Plan & Guidelines

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 15:00:02 GMT

The Meaningful Use of Technology at MSLF

There may be no more controversial topic in Montessori circles than the use of technology in our classrooms. Dr. Maria Montessori developed her method of learning long before anyone would have dreamed of the technology that we have access to today. She opened her first classroom in Rome in 1907, the same year that color photography was invented by Auguste and Louis Lumiere. Little did she know that after her death in 1952 and by the end of the 20th century, we would see spaceships, computers, cell phones, and wireless internet.

It’s important to remember, however, that Dr. Montessori was herself a pioneer and a revolutionary. When she was 13, she made the unconventional choice to go to an all-boys technical school to study engineering. Upon graduation, she applied to the University of Rome’s medical program but was rejected. She instead pursued her studies in physics, mathematics, and natural sciences and was finally accepted into medical school. When she graduated in 1896, she became one of the first female physicians in Italy. In her work, Dr. Montessori relied on scientific observation and direct experience to develop her teaching methods, learning materials, and classroom environment, which stood in stark contrast to rigid, traditional classrooms. Her vision of education instead provided children with an environment that fostered their natural desire to learn and freedom to choose their own materials. If she were alive today, there is no doubt that her child-centered approach to education would carefully think about the impact of rapidly changing technology on today’s children, and her innovative ideas would undoubtedly consider how new technologies could be meaningfully incorporated into her method.

In the spirit of Dr. Montessori herself, we at MSLF have considered exactly that: how can we meaningfully incorporate use of technology into our curriculum without compromising what we know about how young children learn best? In support of our belief in Montessori educational philosophy, we aim to never replace real world, hands-on activities with high tech experiences. Our goal is to teach children how to be problem solvers, how to think outside of the box, and how to manage and express their emotions to prepare them for life and promote personal growth and healthy relationships.

At MSLF, we are keenly aware of the need to educate our children on the use of technology as a tool. Students are given the opportunity to use technology as a resource and tool only when developmentally appropriate. We provide this summary to our community to communicate how technology is used at MSLF, as well as a resource, so that decisions about technology use at home can be made to best support your child’s development. We also remind all adults, whether at school or at home, to model purposeful, responsible technology use when caring for children at all stages of development.

We are proud to share our Technology @ MSLF: Vision, Plan & Guidelines document to help all MSLF families understand how technology is viewed and used at our school. We further hope that this information brings greater understanding and confidence in how the investment in your child’s Montessori education at MSLF will truly serve them well into the future.

TECHNOLOGY AT MSLF OVERVIEW

During the First Plane of Development, the focus for the child’s development should be on hands-on, concrete, real experiences in the environment in order to fully develop focus, executive functioning, and functional independence.

Our Toddler and Primary classrooms at MSLF, which serve children aged 0-6, do not use technology for learning.

MSLF strongly encourages limited use of technology by children at this age, as it hinders development of the holistic child and impacts the important development of executive function and focus. It is also important for adults to model purposeful, responsible technology use when caring for children at this stage of development.

As children move into the Second Plane of Development, their imagination begins to develop more rapidly and they move into more abstract thinking, building on the concrete concepts learned in early childhood. It is still important for children in this plane to continue to have real-world experiences, especially as their world begins to expand and they become more social.

Our Lower Elementary classroom at MSLF, which serves children in grades 1-3, does not use technology for learning.

Our Upper Elementary classroom at MSLF, which serves children in grades 4-6, uses technology minimally and purposefully, with the focus on technology as a tool for productivity, communication, and learning.

We strongly remind families with elementary-aged children that modeling our own use of technology is just as important at this age as it is in early childhood. We recommend that parents carefully consider introduction of screen media thoughtfully and to monitor and limit a child's access to technology. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ Family Media Plan tool allows parents to consider the purpose of media and to explore how it fits with each family’s values. We also strongly encourage that families use resources such as Common Sense Media to select developmentally appropriate programming.

Our Adolescent Program classroom at MSLF, which serves children in grades 7-8, continues use of technology purposefully, with the focus on refining the use for communication, research, and the Adolescent Program microeconomy.

We continue to recommend that parents of adolescent students model appropriate use of technology, as exposure to different forms, including social media, continues to grow at this age. At home, we recommend that parents monitor their child's access to technology and encourage appropriate use of technology. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ Family Media Plan tool allows parents to consider the purpose of media and to explore how it fits with each family’s values. We also strongly encourage that families use resources such as Common Sense Media to select developmentally appropriate programming.

Resources and references:

MSLF Curriculum Scope & Sequence

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 14:00:51 GMT

An in-depth look at the Montessori curriculum at MSLF

At MSLF, we are constantly striving to ensure our families have a clear view of how our Montessori curriculum can and will best support their child’s developmental needs. If we didn’t believe so wholeheartedly in the strength of the Montessori curriculum, we wouldn’t be here! We truly believe that children are best served by curriculum which meets them at their developmental level, while at the same time fostering their interests and drive to learn.

Montessori education was developed over 100 years ago by Dr. Maria Montessori. As a physician and a trained researcher, and through the utilization of scientific observation methods, Maria designed learning materials and a classroom environment that fostered the children’s natural desire to learn. Montessori dedicated herself to advancing her unique approach to education, opening her first classroom in Rome in 1907. By 1910, Montessori schools were acclaimed worldwide. Few educators have had as lasting of an impact as Maria Montessori. Her unique teaching philosophy was based on her scientific observations of children's natural learning processes, which eventually led to the development of the Montessori method of learning.

Even today, Montessori education is the most widespread and common alternative education system in the world. It has become well known for producing some of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs (Google founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page), innovators (Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates), sports legends (basketball star Steph Curry ), and creative icons (Beyoncé and Taylor Swift). In just the past year, two meta-analyses of research ( here and here ) have found that Montessori education had a significant positive impact on both academic and non-academic outcomes, highlighting the benefits of a Montessori program on social development, emotional development, and cognitive development. Researcher Angeline Lillard, co-author of one meta-analysis, states "This helps children develop into independent but collaborative, socially aware, competent adults who know themselves and are equipped to lead meaningful, useful lives."

Today, we are providing you with the comprehensive view of curriculum used at MSLF – the MSLF Curriculum Scope and Sequence . This practical guide is designed to help manage curriculum planning, implementation, and recording in the Montessori classroom. Schools in the Montessori community have developed these guides as invaluable tools to evaluate the age ranges at which we believe Montessori children should commonly reach major milestones and develop a language that is performance oriented and understood by parents and described in conventional educational terms. It is important to note that the Scope and Sequence, along with the lesson plans, observation, lesson tracking, assessments, and reporting methods that support it, are all components of a complete educational curriculum at MSLF.

Dr. Maria Montessori designed her programs (lessons, materials, and classroom activities) to work in harmony with the way children learn. Through the utilization of scientific observation methods, Dr. Montessori designed learning materials and a classroom environment that fostered the children’s natural desire to learn. Her programs were then designed to support the specific, innate needs children have at various stages of development. Dr. Montessori identified these as Planes of Development.

Graduation & End-Of-Year Message from Head of School, Hope Allegretti

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 18:52:16 GMT

Hello everyone! Thank you for being here today to celebrate this year’s stepping up and graduating students. This day is always a bittersweet one as we celebrate all their accomplishments and all their hard work while also preparing to say good-bye as they join new classrooms and start a new chapter. They’ve earned their key of knowledge, completed their Elementary cycle, and are graduating from the Adolescent Program. Today’s celebration signifies a big change for these students. Change can be exciting or change can be intimidating. Change can be exciting AND intimidating. But, these students are Montessori students. They are well equipped to handle change. They are self-guided, decision-making, problem solvers capable of adapting to new environments, new routines, and new people. We should look to them as our role models for accepting and adapting to change because they do it with such grace. They embrace change with thoughtfulness and openness. This adaptability is such an important life skill they hone while at MSLF, because as the saying goes…the only constant in life is change. They will experience change in abundance throughout their lives. Not as obstacles but rather as opportunities. John F. Kennedy once said, “Change is the law of life. Those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” Through change we grow.

Much like our celebrants today, our school is changing too. We’re growing and we’re adapting. I am excited to announce the addition of a fourth Primary classroom in the Fall of 2024 to serve our growing community. Thanks to the success of this year’s Annual Spring Benefit we will also be debuting our new Music Enrichment Program in the Fall of 2024, which will benefit students of all ages. And, there’s more… we are also very much looking forward to the construction of a new Outdoor Education building to support our incredible Outdoor Education Program which will provide Ms. Whitney a dedicated space for lessons when the weather does not allow them to work outdoors. We are so grateful to the entire MSLF community for your support which makes these exciting changes possible.

And as we adapt to new spaces, welcome new staff members and new students, and adjust to new schedules or routines – we’ll look to our role models here today. I can confidently say I speak for everyone here when I say how proud we are of these incredible leaders. The community you enter next is extremely lucky to be gaining you as a member as you will be gifting them your curiosity, your compassion, your creativity and simply your company. May you always hold a place in your heart for MSLF. Please join me in congratulating all our stepping up and graduating students today.

In closing, I would like to thank all of you for being a part of the MSLF community. Thank you to all the parents for finding and choosing MSLF for your children and for supporting them and the school during their time here. Thank you to all the grandparents, aunts and uncles, siblings, and special friends who have offered their support as well. Thank you to the faculty and staff for their dedication and hard work to provide the best possible Montessori education to our students. And finally, thank you to our incredible students for your grace, your independence, your leadership, your ambition, and your kindness. You are why we are all here. You are why we do what we do. You give us joy and you give us hope. And with that, please join me in one final congratulations to all our stepping up and graduating students.

Congratulations graduates!

Upper El Raises Money to Support Feed My Starving Children

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 04:51:53 GMT

A wonderful and successful student fundraiser!

In the week leading up to our Spring Break, our Upper Elementary classroom has been busy! While planning the class field trip to Feed My Starving Children - Libertyville (FMSC,) three 6th year students had the idea to create a fundraiser to bring additional funds with them on their field trip, to further support Feed My Starving Children's mission to ship much-needed food to communities in need all over the world. The students quickly got to work planning a fundraising market, where they could sell handmade items, baked goods, and hot cocoa.

The fundraising market on Wednesday was a tremendous success, raising $451, which was donated straight to FMSC during the field trip on Thursday! On behalf of Upper Elementary, thank you to all the MSLF families that supporting their fundraising efforts!

The volunteer session at FMSC was a blast and so rewarding. Classroom parents served as chaperones and helped to volunteer during the session as well. According to FMSC, on average during one packing session, one group will produce $63 of food, which would feed a child for seven months. During their session, Upper El students and other volunteers were able to pack 107 boxes of food, which will be sent to feed 63 children for a year in the country of Malawi. What a great experience for these MSLF students!

The Capstone Years

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 21:19:23 GMT

Age 6 and age 12 in Montessori are referred to as the capstone years. During these years children really dive into big work and develop their self-confidence.

There are key times in children’s lives when they can consolidate emerging parts of themselves before moving into a new area of growth and change. Two significant times of change for young people are around age six and then again around age twelve, the kindergarten and 6th-grade years. Both biology and Montessori theory offer insight into why these are significant times in children’s lives.

Montessori’s Planes of Development

Dr. Maria Montessori believed that children’s work is to construct the adults they will become. This is really important work! Adults can support children’s own self-construction, but not actually do it for children. Children are able to accomplish self-construction through their own activity and interactions with the environment.

Dr. Montessori’s observations of this self-construction led her to develop a theory of four planes of development. When looking at children’s development from a scientist’s point of view, Dr. Montessori found that development did not occur steadily but rather occurred in phases or planes. Dr. Montessori considered that the change in children, as they moved from one plane to another, was so profound that it resembled a rebirth.

Each plane or phase of development lasts for approximately six years: infancy (0 to 6), childhood (6 to 12), adolescence (12 to 18), and adulthood (18 to 24). The turning point around age six is when children are moving from infancy into childhood, and similarly, around age twelve they move from childhood into adolescence.

Biological Changes

Biologically, considerable hormonal changes are happening during these two transition times in children’s lives. While our society generally recognizes the biological shifts that happen as young people move into adolescence, we are less well-versed about what happens in our six-year-olds.

It doesn’t take much, though, to realize change is afoot! Think about what we see in terms of dramatic physical changes around age six: their teeth start to fall out, their hair gets coarser, they lose that baby-soft skin, and they start to become leaner and lanky. Similarly, our twelve-year-old’s are on the brink of adolescence, another period of dramatic physical growth and change.

However, there can be a gap between these physical signs of maturity and the cognitive and emotional development happening for our six-year-olds and twelve-year-old’s. Often children at these ages are moved too quickly into an environment that both doesn’t meet their needs and doesn’t honor the internal growth that still needs to occur. When this happens, they lose the environmental stability that allows them to develop a deeper sense of self-confidence and to truly consolidate the intellectual and emotional skills they have been developing over the previous years.

Capstone Years

In Montessori, we recognize the importance of these transitional years and intentionally design our learning communities to support young people during this time. The six-year-olds and twelve-year-old’s are the oldest in their classroom learning communities. They know the routines and expectations, they have secure relationships, and they get to help others who are newer to the classroom communities.

Because they aren’t trying to assimilate into a new environment, our six- and twelve-year-old’s can serve as leaders for their mixed-age classrooms. They can focus on challenging work and big personal achievements. By being with their younger classmates, they can see where they have grown and how they got to where they are now.

These are the capstone years, the final piece to complete the critical building-up that has been happening during the previous formative years. The level of mastery allows our young six-year-old and twelve-year-old leaders to integrate their social, emotional, and intellectual selves.

During these capstone years, children gain a sense of self-confidence and self-satisfaction from their ability to successfully navigate the bigger projects that were beyond their capabilities in the earlier years. Plus, they do so in a community of adults and peers who have shared in their learning experience over several years.

By having the opportunity to integrate their learning in a safe, stable, and secure environment, our young learners can do their important work of self-construction. We invite you to visit our classrooms, so you can see for yourself the significance of these capstone years.

The Impact of Grace and Courtesy

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 23:30:00 GMT

Montessori stresses grace & courtesy as vital for social development. Beginning with respectful behavior then effective communication & community interactions.

In Montessori, we emphasize two words on a pretty regular basis: grace and courtesy. But what does grace and courtesy really mean? How are they an essential part of Montessori classrooms? And what role do they play in supporting the development of social relationships?

What is Grace? What is Courtesy?

Let’s first isolate each word. Google’s Oxford Languages defines “grace" in two parts: 1. simple elegance or refinement of movement, and 2. courteous goodwill. Courtesy is defined simply as: the showing of politeness in one’s attitude and behavior toward others. Stated another way, grace and courtesy comprise how we move through the space around us showing respect for ourselves and others.

Grace & Courtesy Lessons

In our Toddler and Primary classrooms, grace and courtesy are considered to be part of practical life learning and we devote significant time to grace and courtesy lessons. For example, the adults give explicit instruction on how to walk around someone’s work on the rug, how to wait your turn, how to offer help, how to tuck a chair under the table, or how to introduce oneself. These lessons are offered one-on-one or in small groups and we often use role playing as a technique for exploring the skills.

We are very careful about how we introduce grace and courtesy to children. If we see something that needs to be addressed, we try to avoid confronting the child in the moment and we never offer grace and courtesy lessons as a form of punishment or correction. We are careful about this because children are often embarrassed when corrected by adults on the spot. When this happens, they can feel disrespected and not safe, and thus much less likely to perform the act on their own accord.

In the Older Years

As children enter their elementary and adolescent years, our approach shifts slightly. Elementary-age children are more focused on their social interactions and are learning how to navigate the ups and downs of friendships. As such, much of the grace and courtesy work at this level provides children with tools for communicating directly and respectfully, sharing perspectives thoughtfully, and even being discreet about something potentially embarrassing. In addition, they are learning how to interact with the broader community as they arrange visits or interviews, conduct themselves according to the norms of different communities, and explore how to be a host or be a guest.

The Goal

The goal in Montessori education is that these acts of grace and courtesy aren’t rigid expectations, like insisting that children say please and thank you . Rather, they become part of how children want to be and interact. Dr. Montessori is quoted as saying: “…the essential thing is that [the child] should know how to perform these actions of courtesy when his little heart prompts him to do so, as part of a social life which develops naturally from moment to moment.”

Like all other exercises in Montessori prepared environments, we offer opportunities to regularly practice and repeat grace and courtesy skills. Because these experiences are part of the normal functioning of the day, they provide a respectful way for young people to learn expectations and for adults to provide scaffolding and assistance for social skills.

The Results

In time, as we offer these grace and courtesy opportunities and give children a safe place to practice, our young people eventually perform these skills independently.

When you visit our school, you’re likely to see two young children sitting together one patiently showing the other how to tie their shoes. Or perhaps if you observe in a classroom, a couple of students might ask if you would like them to serve you tea or water.

Our children bring a sad classmate a tissue or rush to assist when someone has a spill. They tuck their chairs under tables so others don’t trip over them. They carefully place a tray upon a table. They greet each other and adults in the hallways. They hold the door open when they see someone coming their way.

In the process, Montessori children move beyond the basic niceties and think deeply about their impact on those around them. ☮️❤️��

Research suggests benefits of handwriting vs. typing

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 21:01:45 GMT

After recording the brain activity of university students, researchers in Norway determined that writing by hand may improve learning and memory.

More research to support why handwriting (vs. typing on a keyboard) might improve learning and memory? Yes, please!

“Our main finding was that handwriting activates almost the whole brain as compared to typewriting, which hardly activates the brain as such. The brain is not challenged very much when it’s pressing keys on a keyboard as opposed to when it’s forming those letters by hand,” said Audrey van der Meer, the study’s co-author and a neuropsychology professor at NTNU.

In the news: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna135880

Full research report: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1219945/full

#montessori #MSLF #educationforlife #moremontessori #handwriting

Trust the Process: Montessori as an Intentional Approach

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 02:11:48 GMT

The Montessori approach can be intimidating at times. There are many misconceptions about Montessori but the methodology is backed by results.

In Montessori, we focus on supporting children’s intellectual, emotional, social, and academic growth. A scientist first and foremost, Dr. Maria Montessori was interested in creating optimal learning environments so that young humans could reach their potential with as few adult-created obstacles as possible.

Thus, in Montessori, we think differently about the role of the adult and even how learning materials are used. One of the adults’ roles, for example, is to put children in touch with activities so that children can learn through doing. With this experiential approach, children can use their hands, engage through movement, and even make mistakes. The adults are not the dispenser of information or even the right answers. Rather, we help children learn how to learn, which includes understanding themselves as learners, figuring out how to use failure as a starting place for growth, and exploring the process as much as coming to an end product.

To achieve this, the Montessori method has a very intricate approach that relies on providing children with building blocks over the course of their educational journey. Montessori guides engage in an individualized, long-term process of introducing children to a series of skills and information, all to help children experience ah-ha moments. We know that when children discover something for themselves, they own that information deeply. Sometimes we’ve seen children feel like they are the first discoverers of a new piece of knowledge, a linguistic tool, or a mathematical trick.

For example, when children are learning the process of compound multiplication, we move them through a series of activities that connect their prior knowledge of place value, patterning they have experienced for years through different Montessori materials, and a color-coded system for quantities. As they work through steps that show how compound multiplication works, children often realize that they can take shortcuts rather than putting out and exchanging various colored bead bars on a material called the checkerboard. Once they start taking these “shortcuts” they are demonstrating that they have internalized the steps for multiplying multi-digit numbers. Sometimes in this process, children feel like they are discovering a fabulous secret or have invented a new mathematical method. However, we know that they are taking the necessary steps to abstractly compute the answer in a compound multiplication problem.

One of the gifts of a Montessori education is that children have the opportunity to discover so much in their own way and in their own time. Rather than rote learning or memorization, children are given the chance to make connections. Through multiple learning experiences, these connections become interconnections that create complex neural pathways that often show up later in life. There is a reason why a Wall Street Journal piece coined the term “Montessori Mafia” to refer to a number of former Montessori students who have gone on to become what could be called tech titans and engaged innovators!

If this process of discovery isn’t happening for some reason, Montessori guides are trained (and the materials are designed) to provide scaffolding so that children can still build upon prior knowledge and make progress toward mastery. Even so, sometimes extra support is needed and when this is the case, collaboration is key. Montessori works most effectively when there is a strong alignment between home and school. So, if a child needs some additional help or outside services, we work to coordinate with a tutor or support person so that everyone is working in alignment.

If you ever want to show your child a shortcut or introduce some outside-of-school practice, take a moment to check in with your child’s classroom teacher. It might just be that your child is on the brink of discovery. They could be at the culmination of years of carefully designed preparation. They might be just about to make an important connection or realize a significant insight. And when someone is on the edge of understanding, it is a tremendous gift to allow them to have their moment!

(If you are interested in learning more about what happens when children can discover the process for themselves, we’d love to show you! Schedule a tour to see how MSLF students own their knowledge in powerful and profound ways.)

Montessori Coat Flip!

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 14:35:45 GMT

“We can sum this up in two sentences; the first actually said by a child to his teacher: ‘Help me to do it by myself’. The other is one we gave: ‘Every useless help is an obstacle to development’. ”

- Dr. Maria Montessori, Citizen of the World

Jacket season is here and it's time to learn the COAT FLIP! We ❤ these illustrations by Hiyoko Imai from The Montessori Notebook 's book " The Montessori Toddler ."

Did you know that young children as young as 18 months can begin to learn the Montessori coat flip?!?

Read more here: https://themontessorinotebook.com/montessori-coat-flip

Or check out this video from Apple Montessori Schools : https://youtu.be/Jc91xCnZcpU

#montessorieducation #educationforlife #mslf #montessori

Family Gratitude Challenge!

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 20:21:53 GMT

During the month of November, we invite the entire MSLF community to join us for the Family Gratitude Challenge!

It's November 1st and during the month of November, we invite the entire MSLF community to join us for the Family Gratitude Challenge ! This idea from Big Life Journal gives us a chance to pause and remember everything that makes us feel grateful. When we practice acknowledging the ups and downs of life and deliberately focus on the good, we live happier.

You can download the printable here: https://bit.ly/Family-Gratitude-Challenge

You can do this together as a family or work on it individually. Make this challenge a part of your nightly routine or family dinner time for the next 21 days (that's how long it takes to build a habit). Gratitude needs to be cultivated like any other skill, and this activity will help your children count their blessings in life by developing a grateful state of mind.

We encourage all of you to bring the many physical and mental health benefits of gratitude to your family!

��&✏️: https://biglifejournal.com/blogs/blog/family-gratitude-challenge

MSLF is our happy place!

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 14:46:41 GMT

New year, new fun!

Each new school year gives us a fresh chance for fun ways to celebrate the spirit of MSLF! This year, we continued our tradition of fun "Hi Friend" messaging, but also introduced a groovy new theme: MSLF is my happy place! What's your favorite thing about MSLF?

P.S. We get all our custom stickers here !

Halloween, Montessori-Style 🎃

teresa@mslf.org (Teresa Pavelich) — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 15:30:00 GMT

We share some tips to make the Halloween experience educational, respectful, fun, and developmentally appropriate. Enjoy!

Whether we are excited about the delights of Halloween or reluctant to face the excess of sweets, the holiday is upon us! In Montessori, we try to approach holidays as an opportunity to learn more about culture, which includes understanding the history as well as related traditions. As with other aspects of culture, we also think about how to give and show respect in a way that is developmentally appropriate. Above all, we keep in mind what makes sense for each child.

Teach the History

How did Halloween begin? This is an excellent time to explore the origin of Halloween with your child. Young children appreciate a very simple explanation that is linked to the rhythm of the year. For example: “Around this time, when the nights are getting longer and darker, different cultures have different ways of marking this shift from summer into winter. In our culture, one way people have celebrated the change of seasons is by dressing up and visiting neighbors.”

With older children, it’s fun to do a little research together into Halloween’s ancient Celtic origins. Telling a little teaser story can spark some interest in learning more. For example: “Did you know that Halloween began over 2,000 years ago? It wasn’t called Halloween then, though. Its name was Samhain (pronounced ‘sow-in’), which means ‘summer’s end.’ Back then winter was a dangerous time, so people got together to face some of the superstitions and fears, and also to play games and eat together before winter began. Let’s see what else we can discover about this celebration and traditions over time!”

If you are interested in learning more with your children, here are some helpful links for collaborative research:

Practice Grace & Courtesy

It’s not often that we march up to multiple houses and demand treats! As such, we want to be thoughtful about how we introduce the practice of trick-or-treating to our children, uphold our family values, and model showing manners while having fun.

Young children will likely benefit from some demonstration before they jump into the experience. Role-playing with a family member, friend, or neighbor can set children up for success before they are in the awkward situation of standing before a stranger uncertain about what to do (or not do).

With older children (and their friends if they are trick-or-treating as a group), it’s also helpful to collaboratively review expectations such as walking on people’s sidewalks rather than marching through yards, only approaching houses with porch lights on, the protocol for knocking and/or ringing the doorbell, how to politely respond or engage when someone comes to the door, and what to say as you leave (e.g. “thank you” or “Happy Halloween!”). In addition, Halloween is an excellent time to review road safety around crossing the street and checking for cars.

Remember Developmental Appropriateness

Our young children are still distinguishing between what is real and what isn’t. As such, Halloween can be an exciting and yet sometimes disorienting time. Our language can help. Just like with toddlers when we say, “This is a picture of a giraffe” rather than “This is a giraffe” when we present a language card with a giraffe image, during Halloween festivities, we can be specific about how we talk about people in costumes or even decorations. For example, we might say, “Oh look, there is a person dressed up in a witch costume!” rather than “There is a witch!” Or we might offer some explanation if our children are hesitant, “Those bat and spider figurines hanging on the porch look so real, but when I look more closely I see how they are made of plastic. Can you see that, too?”

If fears do arise, acknowledge your child’s feelings, let them know it’s okay to feel scared, and make sure they feel heard and supported. The last thing we want to do is minimize our children’s fears. Sometimes this means making some modifications to the Halloween plans. Ultimately, we want to make sure the festivities are fun for our children. This might mean considering other options, like decorating pumpkins versus dressing up like zombies. Low-key or autumn-themed activities might be best if children are feeling anxious or fearful.

However your family chooses to celebrate the season, remember we have an opportunity to model respect and thoughtfulness, as well as the importance of having some fun! Let us know what you love to do this time of year. We would love to hear about your family’s favorite autumn and Halloween traditions!

Life moves pretty fast... the benefits of slowing down

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 19:49:49 GMT

Our days can be pretty fast-paced. But when a child's world moves too quickly, they can miss out on some important growth. Here are eight ways we can support our young children by slowing down.

https://montessoriparenting.org/the-importance-of-slowing-down-with-young-children/

#MSLF #montessori #slowingdownlife #followthechild #educationforlife

The Significance of Being on Time

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

It makes a world of difference when children arrive on time; staff is able to greet them and everyone is in the classroom at the start of the day.

As we move along in the school year, it’s time to revisit a crucial part of Montessori learning environments and how it affects your child, as well as the community as a whole.

First, it helps to remember that we are constantly working to ensure the Montessori learning environment is supporting your child’s development. To do this most effectively, we observe. In our observations, we are looking at what is working for children (and what isn’t).

These observations may lead to some changes. For example, we might adjust the arrangement of the furniture so that there is a better flow of activity in the room. Or we might recognize how an individual child needs a little extra time to watch friends before starting any activity. Sometimes we might realize that, as adults, we are walking around too much and distracting the children, so we slow down and take a few moments to sit calmly.

While much of the Montessori learning environment depends upon observing so we can make modifications to what we do, there is one aspect that is really sacrosanct: the three-hour work cycle.

Three-Hour Work Cycles & the “Flow State”

Dr. Montessori was a scientist and the Montessori method of education was born from her observations of children and how to support their optimum development. She even graphed patterns of activity for individual children and classroom communities. In her scientific study, Dr. Montessori found that children need a block of uninterrupted time in order to go through a rhythm of focus and consolidation. Children two and a half and older need at least three hours to move through these cycles of concentration. Often children’s most growth and meaningful work happens toward the end of a three-hour block of time.

We can think about this in relation to our current-day understanding of what it means to get into a flow state. Sometimes people describe a flow state as “being in the zone.” It’s when we are so immersed in and focused on what we are doing that a sense of time and our surroundings disappear. This concept of flow has been most clearly articulated by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. Csikszentmihalyi was a psychologist whose studies of happiness and creativity led to his articulation of flow – a highly focused mental state that is conducive to creativity and productivity. Interestingly enough, when Csikszentmihalyi’s grandchildren started going to a Montessori school, he saw how Montessori learning environments allowed young children to achieve this state of flow.

Why is this significant?

In order to get into their own state of flow, children in our learning communities need a three-hour chunk of time. We have designed our morning arrivals and routines so that children can benefit from an interrupted morning work cycle.

Part of the morning schedule involves children having enough time to greet their peers and go through their routines without being rushed before they enter the classroom environment. When children are ready and in the classroom, the guides can begin focusing on giving lesson presentations and generally supporting children as they start their day.

However, if children routinely arrive late at the beginning of the morning, the adults’ attention needs to be split between greeting those who arrive late and attending to the children who have started their important work of the day.

This is also hard on the children who arrive after their peers have settled into their morning. When children enter a space where everyone is already connected and engaged in work, it is hard for them to connect with classmates and even know where to begin. This is especially challenging for those who really need to establish a social connection at the beginning of their day. It’s a little like awkwardly coming late to a party and finding everyone else in already established social circles!

In addition, late arrivals can be challenging for the community as a whole. The children who were on time and working often find it distracting when friends and classmates arrive. They might even lose focus on what they were leaning because they feel compelled to greet their friends. However, once everyone has arrived, the community is really able to settle. The adults aren’t trying to help children transition into the classroom and friends aren’t getting distracted by who is coming through the door. After arrivals are over, a gentle hum often comes over the room.

A World of Difference

Children need time to transition. Some children are relatively quick, while others take over 15 minutes to get their items put away, shoes changed, and so forth.

It makes a world of difference when our community members arrive on the early side, so that transitions can happen when a guide is able to be present to greet children and so that we can have everyone in the classroom at the start of the day. We rely upon on-time arrivals for the very important three-hour work cycle. Having that uninterrupted block of time is vital to a well-functioning classroom and to individual children’s development.

For MSLF families:

We know that mornings can be hard. If you would like to discuss routines that can support on-time arrivals, please contact your child’s teacher. It can take time to figure out what is most effective for each child and family. It’s a constantly evolving opportunity and we look forward to working with you!

How can parents best support Montessori teachers?

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

As we begin a new school year, we often want to offer support to our children's Montessori teachers. We love this post with great ideas for how to show support. (Spoiler alert: the best ideas on this list are the simplest... read on!)

https://www.thekavanaughreport.com/2017/10/how-can-parents-best-support-montessori.html

What is your favorite way to support your child's teacher and classroom?

#montessorieducation #MSLF #montessori #educationforlife

Moving Away from "How Was Your Day?"

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 16:54:01 GMT

It can be hard for children to talk about their experiences at school. If we shift our approach, we can often get more insight into our children’s day.

When we pick up our children from school, it can be so tempting to ask, “How was your day?” Often the responses are pretty lackluster.

As adults, we can likely relate. If a partner or friend asks about our day, our responses may be along the lines of fine, good, tiring, okay. Sometimes we just don’t feel like rehashing the day!

For children, there can also be an element of not always having the language to explain what they did or experienced. In Montessori environments, this can be even more challenging. How can a young child describe the sensorial experience of carrying each block of the pink tower to a rug and creating a geometric tower of cubes based on the decimal system? Or convey their emerging conversation with a friend during community lunch? Or relate their delight in discovering that ten 10s create a hundred square?

As children get a little older, they are also starting to grapple with figuring out their relationships with peers, which involves so many social nuances. Younger elementary-aged children are still seeing these relationships in black and white. So their descriptions of the day may be pretty two-dimensional: someone was mean or nice, the day was good or bad (usually based on an interaction with a friend), etc.

It can be hard for children to talk about their experiences at school. However, if we shift our approach, we can often get more insight into our children’s experiences.

Ideally, we focus on connection first. When we see our children at the end of the school day, we can greet them in a way that conveys how happy we are to see them. They may be tired, need to fall apart a little, have a snack, or just have a little time for rejuvenation. Allow a little loving space. Each child has a different way they feel fueled, loved, seen, and held. That first moment isn’t an ideal time to ask about the day because our children are transitioning into being back in our care. Plus, there is a lot going on during that transition!

Later, when our children have settled into being with us or at home, and hopefully have had a snack or a little time to decompress, we have a chance to connect about the day. However, a word of caution: questions like, “How was your day?” or “What did you do today?” are so open-ended, they can also feel overwhelming to children.

Instead, when we focus on starting a conversation rather than digging for information, our children are more likely to open up. They also need to feel that we are completely present for their responses, which means putting down our phones, not focusing on getting everyone into or out of the car, or not being involved in something like preparing dinner. It helps when we can show with our body language that we are really listening.

In those times when you are ready to explore a conversation, we recommend trying some other kinds of questions. Here are 26 of our favorites. The first five work best for younger children.

1. What made you feel happy today?

2. Who did you play with today? What did you do together?

3. Who did you sit with at snack/lunch today?

4. What made you feel sad today?

5. What was your favorite activity today?

6. What is something you did today that you’d love to do every day?

7. How did someone fill your bucket today? Whose bucket did you fill?

8. What made your teacher smile? Did anything make your teacher frown?

9. What were you grateful for today?

10. What is your class or teacher’s most important rule?

11. Who do you want to make friends with but haven’t yet?

12. What did you learn about a friend today?

13. What did you do today that was helpful?

14. When did you feel most proud of yourself today?

15. What rule was the hardest to follow today?

16. Who is the friendliest person in your class? What do they do to be friendly?

17. What did you do today that was creative?

18. What was the high point of your day? What was the low point?

19. What is something that challenged you?

20. What is something that you were super good at today?

21. What compliments did you get (or give) today?

22. How were you brave today?

23. If you could change one thing about your day, what would it be?

24. How was your day different than yesterday?

25. What superpower would have come in handy today?

26. What are you looking forward to tomorrow?

After a snack, over dinner, on an afternoon walk, or before bed, try starting conversations with these kinds of questions. Notice that most of them can’t be answered with one word.

In addition, we can also provide our own responses, which provides a model for our children and gives them some scaffolding as they are thinking about how to answer. For example, “At lunch today I sat with someone who just started working with me. We talked a lot about going hiking and I shared some of my favorite hikes.” Or “When I was about your age, we loved playing capture the flag. One of my favorite memories of this game was when…” Sharing parts of our day or some of our own school memories not only shows that we are interested in conversation, but it also gives our children a guide for how to begin.

Let us know how it goes to first connect and later start conversations with open-ended questions. If you have any conversation starters that you and your children especially love, please share them! You can also download this printable of our favorite questions to keep handy for those opportune moments.

Welcome message from Board President

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 20:28:12 GMT

Read this year's welcome message from incoming Board President, Kathryne Martin Nelson:

Have you sat and watched ants on an ant hill? No? Well, clearly you were not a student at MSLF and obviously haven’t yet had the pleasure of doing an observation of your child’s classroom yet.

It is the most incredible thing, watching those queens of the classroom (the teachers) guide their little worker ants throughout the day. At first glance, it appears like total chaos- they.are.everywhere. But when you look more closely you see that somehow, it is all a well-organized system of determined little worker ants and that queen is always at the center. Each of them has a mission, they know exactly what they are supposed to do and how to do it.

Did you know…despite having the title of “queen” that she does not delegate tasks to the worker ants? Sound familiar??? The worker ants choose their tasks based on their own personal preference. And that as a colony, ants work together as a “super mind” to solve complex problems or make decisions that benefit the entire colony? Seriously. That’s true. Ms. Whitney, Mr. Brandon, back me up here.

So, every year, when my eyes widen in disbelief inside that Observation Room and I predictably describe the goings-on of the classroom as an ant hill to my husband, Jason-- I am absolutely right (and super smart). Our children are ants! Not only are they always seemingly underfoot and at times pesky, when they are in their ant hill, they are doing exactly what their job is to do: contribute to their community.

It is this sense of purpose, contribution and community that makes this school so special. At its core are the staff, the teachers- our queens! But it is also each family who has chosen to be part of this MSLF community: who values and respects one another, models compassion and empathy, honors curiosity and encourages a passion for learning.

The MSLF education is not simply the classroom academics, it’s not preparing them for the next test or homework assignment. MSLF is the education of the whole child and prepares them for life. So, when you hear yourself saying, “Of course you can help me make dinner!” or “You did such a great job putting on your own shoes, would it be more comfortable if you tried them on the other foot?” or “Wow wow wow! That outfit you picked out looks so colorful with all the different patterns, and oh! shorts over your pants!”-- you know you are part of something much bigger. You are partnering with your child’s teacher to continue the lessons they have learned at school; it is their foundation for whatever is next. We are all part of this community who want our kids to grow to be engaged, curious, thoughtful, independent, kind, well-prepared learners in this world…and with a strong pincer grip!

MSLF also has a thriving parent community, likely part of the reason you ended up here. The parents here intentionally model the type of pro-active community members we want our children to grow into by attending school events (I see you!), participating in Parent- Child work sessions, volunteering as Room Parents and working with the MPO. Aaaand they also volunteer their time to work on our school’s Board of Directors (see what I did there?).

I would like to take a minute to recognize the members of this year’s Board of Directors who volunteer their time (and talents!) to support MSLF. I know not everyone was able to attend tonight but if you are here, will you please stand:

Jaimeen Brahmbhatt, Mary Coduti, Johanna DeYoung , Linda Fraunhofer, Carolyn Gorowski, Lauren Kugler, Nathan Hintz, Christian Mattis, Ivana Naeymi-Rad, Matt Nielsen, Laniel Razdolsky, Emily Van Bel, our Secretary, Larry Falbe, Treasurer, Kelly Dunn Rynes and Vice President, Riley O’Neil.

But the core of this school, the reason why your children love coming to school and working hard on their little ant hill each day is without question, because of the teachers and the staff. I could go on and on and on about the unbelievably dedicated, intelligent, hardworking, creative, and loving people we have at our school, but instead I will let our incredibly dedicated, smart, hardworking, loving Executive Director, Hope Allegretti, introduce you to these amazing people who are the heart of this community. Thank you.

Welcome to a new school year!

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 19:31:08 GMT

Read this year's welcome message from Executive Director, Hope Allegretti:

Thank you all for taking the time to be here tonight. And thank you for choosing to be a part of the MSLF community. This will be my 18 ^th year at MSLF. I still very much remember the first time I visited this school. I truly felt I had discovered a hidden gem; a magical place where children do amazing things and become these remarkable human beings. The classrooms were beautiful and warm, the teachers were kind and graceful and the students were busy, happy, and independent. I didn’t want to leave. So, I didn’t. I took advantage of every opportunity MSLF offered me, and I stuck around. I had children of my own – several children – and naturally enrolled them at MSLF. And now Nico is a 6 ^th year, Bella a 4 ^th year, Rosie a 2 ^nd year and Leo is in extended day. My appreciation for this school and this community has only grown as I’ve had the privilege of experiencing MSLF as a parent. I can honestly say I feel that same magic here today and I’m grateful my children get to experience it with me every day.

We’re here together tonight because we all feel that magic at MSLF. It’s hard not to, right? There’s a peace within these walls that compels us to send our children here daily but draws us in as well. You’re all Montessori parents now. And your children aren’t the only ones who will be practicing their patience. You’ll spend a significant amount of your time now waiting – waiting for your child to dress themselves, undress themselves, clean up after themselves. You’ll fight the urge to feed them, dress them, speak for them, or correct them. You’ll master the art of allowing your children to do for themselves, to learn from mistakes, and self-correct, to learn how they learn best. You’ll survive the wait, the backwards clothes or shoes on the wrong feet, and the natural consequences, that at times inconvenience you the most. With the support of MSLF teachers, staff, and parents, you’ll master Montessori parenting.

In choosing to send your child to MSLF, you’ve truly given them a gift. A Montessori education at MSLF will offer your child independence, confidence, concentration, and persistence. Learning will bring them joy as they experience hands-on activities, collaboration, and leadership. They’ll develop life skills, strategies and practices that will serve them well into the future. Skills that will lead them to be problem solvers, independent thinkers, caregivers, peacemakers, creators, innovators, and world changers. The investment you make now will not only support your child academically, but also socially and emotionally. At MSLF, we strive to develop the whole child focusing on far more than the curriculum. This focus results in greater self-awareness, self-confidence and work ethic, a strong ability to adapt to change and problem solve and a desire to lead, teach and collaborate with others – critical skills that will support their future success, regardless of their path.

This year at MSLF we are extremely excited to begin the school year surrounded by so many amazing upgrades to our campus. Thanks to the generosity and support of our MSLF community we were able to replace and upgrade all our playgrounds, install all new flooring throughout the building, and tend to quite a bit of needed maintenance to our campus – inside and out. None of this would have been possible without the hard work from our parent volunteers and staff supported by incredible giving from current families and alumni. So, thank you. We look forward to continuing to focus on growth and improvements throughout the year evaluating additional enhancements we can make to our enrichment programs, materials, and our facility to support our students needs and interests, offering as many opportunities for learning, unique experiences, and distinctive programs as possible. We will once again pursue a goal of 100% participation from the MSLF parent community during our Annual Giving Campaign, which will kick off following Spirit Week next week. We hope we can continue to count on each MSLF family to contribute and support the future growth of MSLF. We ask our parent community to not only consider donating to annual giving and Spring fundraising, but to consider supporting our school by volunteering. There are many opportunities available to parents to be more involved such as volunteering as a room parent, joining the MPO to help plan and support events, or serving on our Board of Directors. Without the support of our volunteers, we would not be able to achieve our strategic and fundraising goals each year and we are so grateful to all that give their time to MSLF. Whether its once a week, once a month, or once a year – we know your time is precious and we appreciate you giving your time to MSLF.

I stand here tonight incredibly proud of our school and our community. By finding inspiration from those that led this school before us, while also looking to the future to prepare our students for what’s to come, we’ve ensured our students will continue to receive an authentic Montessori education while adapting to the 21 ^st century. We know you have many options for school choice in the area and I am grateful you’ve chosen to be a part of the MSLF community. It truly is a very special community and an exceptional school.

Welcome New Families!

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 22:54:00 GMT

Hi Friend! Welcome to MSLF!

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MSLF’s Parent Infant Program returns September 14

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 16:23:00 GMT

– Weekly sessions for infants 6 weeks to 12 months and 12 to 18 months
– Registered families will receive a copy of “The Montessori Baby” + an MSLF child observation binder.

Sessions begin Sept 14. REGISTER TODAY !

Read more here: https://www.mslf.org/parent-infant

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MSLF Welcomes Danna Ayres, new Adolescent Program Director for 2021-2022 school year

Fri, 07 May 2021 15:00:00 GMT

The Montessori School of Lake Forest is excited to share the following news with our community:

We continue to look forward to the new school year and beyond. We are extremely excited to announce that we are moving forward with the addition of an Adolescent Program , grades 7 & 8, to our program offerings for the 2021-2022 school year. The additional class will be conducted at our Laurel Drive Campus, using existing space as we re-introduce the program at MSLF.

Along with the new program comes an announcement of a new program director. We hope you will join us in welcoming Danna Ayres back to MSLF.

Danna holds a BA in History, with a concentration in History of Science and a minor in Philosophy from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She also has a Masters in Mathematics Education from DePaul University. While at MSLF, Danna completed the Montessori Orientation to Adolescent Studies, and she has continued her learning about Montessori mathematics in courses and workshops.

Danna shares her passion and vision for the MSLF AP:

“I have always loved both learning and teaching, and when I discovered the world of Montessori education, it was as though everything clicked into place. The idea that subject areas are integrated and interwoven, and that the development of the whole child is valued above isolated academic achievements resonated most with me.

At this stage of development, it is essential for students to move beyond simply gathering facts, and to really begin learning how to learn. My greatest hope in teaching any subject is that my students wouldn’t just know the material, but that they would love what they’re doing and find joy and excitement in the learning process.

To work with adolescents, one must truly love and understand that age group in order to establish an atmosphere based on mutual trust and respect. I have found that my personality, sense of humor, and ability to have fun while still being firm all help me to get along easily with adolescents, and provide them with an environment where they feel they are free to express themselves, to make mistakes without judgment, and to ask for help when they need it, whether it be academically or personally.

I cherish the personal connection with my students, the opportunity to work with families to help their children meet their goals and conquer their challenges, and the freedom to adapt my curriculum and teaching methods based on the needs of my students. I especially appreciate MSLF’s family-centered atmosphere and culture of respect and kindness. I believe this culture should also be central to the Adolescent Program, and will strive for that in my relationships with students, parents, and other teachers.”

Please join us in welcoming Danna back to MSLF!

More about Montessori Adolescent Programs and Curriculum

Dr. Maria Montessori believed adolescents should be given the opportunity to experience self-worth through real and important work—a process she called valorization – providing the opportunity for adolescents to realize they are strong, worthy, and capable of effort. A Montessori Adolescent Program strives to meet the adolescent’s need to exhibit creativity, to problem solve, to take responsibility, and to claim independence. The ultimate goal of the program is to support each student as they find a place in the community and become a respectful, responsible, and ethical contributor to society.

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Teacher Appreciation Week: Our Staff

Fri, 07 May 2021 12:30:00 GMT

No doubt any school would cease to function if not for the team of assistants, specialists, staff and administrators working behind the scenes of each successful day! MSLF is supported by this amazing group of people, who make it happen for our children each day:

(read more about our amazing staff here: https://www.mslf.org/faculty-and-staff/ )

#teacherappreciationweek #teacherappreciationweek2021 #weloveourteachers #mslf #mslfstrong #montessori #educationforlife

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Teacher Appreciation Week: Kathryn Jasinski

Thu, 06 May 2021 17:05:00 GMT

Kathryn Jasinski has led in our Lower Elementary classrooms for 18 years, but her Montessori journey started long before that, as she can count 45 years working in schools! Miss Jasinski is a passionate advocate of Montessori education, having studied the philosophy as well as serving as a consultant and guide to student teachers. Her career and training have taken her all over the world, to places like Australia, Sweden, Japan, Ireland, the UK and Finland (to name a few!)

Miss Jasinski brings her passion for Montessori education into her classroom, and values the supportive community of parents, staff, faculty and administration at MSLF. She also loves the beautiful property at MSLF. Her peaceful, early morning photographs of the “MSLF backyard” are a frequent feature in our social media posts!

Miss Jasinski’s students enjoy hand written notes from her, long after leaving her classroom, as she is an avid note writer. When not at school, she enjoys time gardening.

(read more about our amazing teachers here: https://www.mslf.org/faculty-and-staff/ )

#teacherappreciationweek #teacherappreciationweek2021 #weloveourteachers #mslf #mslfstrong #montessori #educationforlife

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Teacher Appreciation Week: Debbie Lincoln

Thu, 06 May 2021 13:00:00 GMT

Our Elementary teachers get the spotlight today!

Debbie Lincoln leads our Upper Elementary students, having joined MSLF nearly 4 years ago. She discovered Montessori education while assisting in a Montessori classroom in Japan, and has taught in classrooms in Brooklyn, NY and Evanston.

Ms. Lincoln values the independence provided to students in a Montessori elementary classroom, which may not be available to them in traditional classroom setting. Her students are her favorite thing about MSLF! No doubt that her students feel the same way about her, especially due to her passion for the classroom and innovative ways to engage their learning.

(read more about our amazing teachers here: https://www.mslf.org/faculty-and-staff/ )

#teacherappreciationweek #teacherappreciationweek2021 #weloveourteachers #mslf #mslfstrong #montessori #educationforlife

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Teacher Appreciation Week: Mia Stompanato

Wed, 05 May 2021 20:00:00 GMT

Mia Stompanato is our third Primary classroom teacher, and her journey with Montessori started when she herself was a Primary student. Those fond memories have come full circle, and now Mrs. Stompanato has taught at MSLF for nearly 30 years!

Mrs. Stompanato’s love of Montessori shows in this statement: “It really is an “education for life”. In addition to the wonderful academics, I feel that we are developing ethics and character that will be part of the person long after the Montessori classroom memories fade.”

Mrs. Stompanato’s classroom is known for her cooking and food preparation lessons, even though her mother did not let her cook as a child because she thought young Mia was too messy. About the MSLF community, Mia says, “I love that we are this great big family but each of us are looked at and treated as individuals. I think this passes down to the way that we treat the children and respect their individual interests and meet their needs.”

(read more about our amazing teachers here: https://www.mslf.org/faculty-and-staff/ )

#teacherappreciationweek #teacherappreciationweek2021 #weloveourteachers #mslf #mslfstrong #montessori #educationforlife

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Teacher Appreciation Week: Monica Pearson

Wed, 05 May 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Monica Pearson is the second of our three Primary classroom teachers. Ms. Pearson has led Primary classrooms at MSLF for 19 years. She values Montessori education because “the children develop a true love of learning that naturally develops through a well prepared environment that is created with a holistic approach.”

(read more about our amazing teachers here: https://www.mslf.org/faculty-and-staff/ )

#teacherappreciationweek #teacherappreciationweek2021 #weloveourteachers #mslf #mslfstrong #montessori #educationforlife

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Teacher Appreciation Week: Carolyn Lanni

Wed, 05 May 2021 18:48:00 GMT

Like many parents of young children, Ms. Lanni loves to read when she can, while ignoring the unfolded “Laundry Mountain” in the corner, and likes any music her sons demand to listen to in the car. No doubt Ms. Lanni is eagerly awaiting the opportunity to travel again with her husband and sons. When asked “Where do you see Montessori in the next 100 years?”, she says: “Hopefully by then it’s just called ‘school.’ ”

(read more about our amazing teachers here: https://www.mslf.org/faculty-and-staff/ )

#teacherappreciationweek #teacherappreciationweek2021 #weloveourteachers #mslf #mslfstrong #montessori #educationforlife

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Teacher Appreciation Week: Jessica DeBruler

Tue, 04 May 2021 17:19:00 GMT

Jessica’s favorite thing about Montessori is “the work of the hand,” which is fitting since Toddlers are continuously busy strengthening their hands! During her 10 years at MSLF, her open and insightful nature has helped many a toddler successfully transition to our Primary program and beyond!

If you know Jessica, you know she loves to golf and spend time with her kids. But you may not know that she’d love to learn coding or knitting, or how much she values “holding space” for our youngest students, as they deal with the “big feelings” of toddlerhood.

(read more about our amazing teachers here: https://www.mslf.org/faculty-and-staff/ )

#teacherappreciationweek #teacherappreciationweek2021 #weloveourteachers #mslf #mslfstrong #montessori #educationforlife

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Teacher Appreciation Week: Candace Weir

Tue, 04 May 2021 15:42:00 GMT

It’s Teacher Appreciation Week! At MSLF, we are grateful for our teachers each and every day, and this week we pay special tribute each of them!

Have you met Candace Weir, who leads one of our Toddler classrooms? This is Candace’s 4th year at MSLF, and second year leading in our Toddler community. When not at MSLF, she can be found practicing yoga or baking (yum!), or playing with her two dogs, Harley and Finley!

(read more about our amazing teachers here: https://www.mslf.org/faculty-and-staff/ )

#teacherappreciationweek #teacherappreciationweek2021 #weloveourteachers #mslf #mslfstrong #montessori #educationforlife

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MSLF Adolescent Program Now Enrolling For The 2021-22 School Year

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 23:29:00 GMT

As we prepare to celebrate our 55th year, MSLF is extremely excited to announce the addition of an Adolescent Program, grades 7 & 8, to our program offerings for the 2021-2022 school year. The additional class will be conducted at our Laurel Drive Campus, using existing space as we re-introduce the program at MSLF.

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MSLF News: Ilan Hurtado Memorial Scholarship

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 16:11:00 GMT

The Montessori School of Lake Forest is proud to share the following news:

The family of Ilan Hurtado are pleased to announce an annual scholarship in Ilan’s name of $5,000, to be granted to an elementary student of a single parent household.

Ilan attended the Montessori School of Lake Forest from the age of 4 until his death at 9. The MSLF community had been a big part of Ilan and his family’s life, and they are pleased to be able to support other children in having the same positive experience.

For more information, including link to the scholarship application: https://www.mslf.org/ilan-hurtado-memorial-scholarship/

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Election Day at MSLF 🗳️🇺🇸

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 17:44:00 GMT

Election Day spirit is high at MSLF on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, as it is the day of the United States General Election.

Primary classrooms explored what it’s like to be a candidate, sharing their platforms with classmates, which included their love for the Earth, that they are helpful to younger friends, respectful and nice, and that they are sweet! They all have our vote!

From Lower Elementary Directress, Miss Jasinski:

“Lower El is hosting a Mock Election. We historically have hosted this event in LE every presidential election. Our reason for doing this is to learn about the Electoral votes. LE children understand what a popular vote and this is an experience to learn how our election process works in the US. Often LE children believe the Presidential election is a popular vote and are surprised to learn it happens with Electoral votes. We are looking at how the population determines the electoral votes.

We also covered that there are actually 4 candidates running, though we are mostly familiar with 2. The children are often surprised to hear this as well.

Our Mini-Mock election will include votes from Primary classrooms and we will be assigning a pre-determined electoral votes to those classrooms based on numbers within the class.”

Upper Elementary students also studied the election process, including the Election Ballot being used in the General Election, and voting on a few items for their class, namely Best Dessert and a new rule for playing Gaga.

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⭐ Back To School Night Message from Hope ⭐

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 15:27:00 GMT

Dear MSLF Families,

In the past 6 months, we’ve all been faced with some incredible challenges. A worldwide pandemic, virtual learning and social distancing have brought unimaginable challenges to all our lives. The students, staff and community at MSLF have handled these challenges with such resilience and grace . This is yet another reason why I am so grateful and proud to be a part of this wonderful school community.

A Montessori education prepares one to be resilient, to adapt to change, to problem solve and think outside of the box. Our students have truly exemplified these traits over the past 6 months. They individually adapted to distance learning in the Spring, adjusted to life with face masks and social distancing with understanding and acceptance and have resumed their work in the classrooms with focus and joy. They have adjusted to changes in classroom schedules, routines and procedures effortlessly, while also thinking critically to solve any problems in these new routines and procedures they may discover as time goes by. When I walk down the halls of MSLF, I am delighted to see classrooms at peace full of students receiving lessons from their teachers, working independently or safely with another and even socializing. While so much is different this year, one true constant is the children’s love of learning. We should all truly look to them to be our role models for accepting and adapting to change, as they are doing it so gracefully!

The MSLF community is fortunate to have incredibly dedicated teachers and staff who are committed to supporting our students and our community. These individuals have worked tirelessly to make in-person learning a reality this school year. They have dedicated countless hours, evenings and weekends to plan and prepare for students to return to campus because the education and safety of our students is their utmost priority. Their efforts allow our students to continue to have the benefit of a Montessori education; a hands-on, individualized learning experience that will prepare our children for life. They have ensured a safe return to school so all our students can continue to develop and learn, even during a pandemic… a challenge MSLF was uniquely prepared to overcome, thanks to our spacious building, expansive outdoor environment and Montessori approach to learning. As a leader to this community, I am proud of their hard work and efforts. As a parent within this community, I am filled with gratitude towards them, as I am sure you all are too.

I am also very grateful to the MSLF parent community. You supported MSLF during unprecedented and unpredictable times. You dedicated much of your own time in the Spring to supporting your child through distance learning, becoming teachers yourselves while also working, caring for your children, and caring for your home. This was not an easy task, but you adapted and rose to the occasion. You continued to support MSLF through the Summer as we reopened and began implementing new procedures and policies. You offered us patience and understanding as we learned how to open during a pandemic. As we welcomed back our entire community, old friends and new, you have continued to offer us that patience and understanding. This community has proven to be incredibly kind and considerate, communicating with the school honestly and making choices with the entire community in mind so we can all continue to enjoy the benefit of in-person learning this year. That thoughtfulness gives me such hope that this year will be an incredible one. Thank you!

We are all adjusting to changes in our lives and at MSLF, but there is much that has thankfully stayed the same. Incredible work is still happening in the classrooms. Teachers are giving lessons and students are working and focused. Their love of learning still very present in their hearts, perhaps even more than before as we all celebrate our return to our beautiful campus, reuniting with teachers and friends. And we have much that is familiar to look forward to as we plan to soon celebrate Spirit Week at MSLF, kick off our Annual Giving Campaign, and choose our outfits for school picture days. I hope the entire MSLF community will join me in showing great school spirit, giving generously, and smiling big in the coming weeks. This is indeed a year for the history books, and I for one am incredibly proud of our school’s place in it.

Hope Allegretti
Executive Director
Montessori School of Lake Forest

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MSLF Announces Hope Allegretti as Executive Director

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 15:47:00 GMT

Montessori School of Lake Forest Board President Kelly Dunn Rynes is thrilled to announce the appointment of Hope Allegretti to the position of Executive Director. “Hope has been a valued and integral part of MSLF for more than 15 years and during her time as Interim and Acting Executive Director this past 2019-2020 school year, she has led our school through unforeseen challenges and met them head on with strong and thoughtful leadership,” said Kelly Dunn Rynes. “MSLF has been thriving under her direction and we are so proud to have Hope continue as our community’s leader.”

Hope first joined MSLF in the summer of 2004 and over the years has served in many positions including Toddler Assistant, Primary Assistant and permanent substitute. She earned her BA in Elementary Education from Southern Illinois University, completed her AMI Primary training in San Diego, and finally earned her Master’s Degree in Montessori Education from Loyola College in the fall of 2008. In 2016 Hope became the Admission & Marketing Director. Hope’s career path at MSLF is a testament to her unwavering commitment to Montessori education and the strong sense of community at MSLF.

“My passion for Montessori education began 16 years ago when I joined the Montessori School of Lake Forest community and I am proud to say that MSLF has become my family and the teachers and staff have been my mentors and my friends, not only my colleagues,” said Hope Allegretti. “My dedication to our school is steadfast and I am honored to have the privilege of being Executive Director and working alongside our families and staff to instill the lifelong love of learning in our students.”

By unanimous decision, the Board of Directors, led by President Kelly Dunn Rynes, appointed Hope Allegretti this assignment. Hope’s commitment and leadership to MSLF as well as the staff and community’s trust in her made this appointment the right choice to uphold and propel the vision and mission of MSLF.

The Board of Directors includes a dedicated and passionate group of leaders returning for the 2020-2021 school year: Riley O’Neil (Vice President), Nathan Hintz (Treasurer), Alexandra Bernardin (Secretary), Mary Coduti, Samantha Falbe, Lou Fernandez, Ben Grum, Kathryne Martin, Jeffrey Mills, Dean Shaffer, and Kim Wisneski

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In The Kitchen: Cinnamon Banana Bread

Tue, 19 May 2020 05:18:00 GMT

Happy baking!

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Nature Journaling Bird Walk with MSLF

Tue, 12 May 2020 19:58:00 GMT

A welcome sign of spring in the Midwest are birds, returning to the feeders in our backyards, or migrating back to our area for breeding before the cold weather returns. We are lucky to have a wide variety of birds where we live! Recently, Outdoor Classroom Director Julia Lunn took us on an early morning Nature Journaling Bird Walk at Middlefork Savanna, right next to the MSLF campus. Nature Journaling is a regular activity for Elementary students at MSLF, going out onto our own 5.5 acres to explore nature with their senses, and journaling about their observations and experiences.

Have you noticed the birds around your house or on your nature walks? Watch this video , then download this checklist of area birds and count how many you can find when you go out exploring!

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MSLF@Home Serves Community with Distance Learning and Connection During Shelter-In-Place

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 20:54:00 GMT

To read more about MSLF@Home, and what MSLF is doing during this time: https://www.mslf.org/mslf-at-home-distance-learning/

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Faculty Attend AMI/USA Conference in Seattle

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 17:31:00 GMT

Faculty members Jessica DeBruler (Toddler), Debbie Lincoln (Upper Elementary) and Kathryn Jasinski (Lower Elementary) traveled to Seattle last weekend to attend The Montessori Experience: Refresher Course & Workshops , presented by Association Montessori International of the United States (AMI/USA). This year’s professional conference theme was “Montessori and the Power of Nature,” and featured sessions that reminded attendees of the importance and the beauty of the nature which surrounds us. The featured keynote speaker was celebrated journalist and author Richard Louv .

This year, professional development for our teachers was supported by fundraising efforts from our Teacher Feature events, special themed events set-up with each teacher, where children enjoyed special fun at school with teachers and friends. We are grateful for the support from the MSLF community, in particular the support given to our amazing teachers to renew and refresh their knowledge with Montessori colleagues from around the world.

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MSLF students celebrate Lunar New Year

Sat, 25 Jan 2020 16:13:00 GMT

恭喜发财! Earlier this week, Elementary students prepared to celebrate the Lunar New Year during their Mandarin lesson with Mrs. Leung. Their message wishes you good fortune (福) in the year ahead!

#Montessori #MandarinLessons #EducationForLife #LunarNewYear #ChineseNewYear #福 #恭喜发财 #Gōngxǐfācái

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Why Montessori? Why Now?

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 21:41:00 GMT

How Montessori education unleashes 21st-century kids to love learning and think big.

By Brooke O’Neill

“I hate school…except for recess,” the girl said matter-of-factly as she opened the ballet studio door. Her friend nodded in agreement. Both looked about eight. As they entered, my older daughter, 5, looked at me, puzzled.

“Weeeeird,” she said, shrugging her shoulders. “I love school.”

“Me too!” her little sister, 4, chimed in.

As a parent, that’s how you want your child to feel about learning: excited, happy, joyful. But how do you foster that love—and keep it going?

One word: Montessori.

Wait, what’s Montessori? (Hint: It’s not memorization, rows of desks, or homework)

“These children have free choice all day long,” Montessori wrote of her classrooms. Um, ok. What does that look like when we’re talking about children, some as young as 15 months old?

Well, if there’s one thing Montessori education teaches parents, it’s that our children are much more capable than we think—and when we stop freaking out and micromanaging their every move, they flourish as productive, resilient human beings.

“We both went to Montessori school,” tech pioneers and Google cofounders Sergey Brin and Larry Page said when asked about their early influences. “It was part of that training … being self-motivated, questioning what’s going on in the world, doing things a little bit differently.”

Want your child to trust themselves, think outside the box, and pursue bold visions? Read on.

Independent, hands-on learning from the youngest age

As the day begins at Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF), a two-year-old independently makes her way down the hallway to her Toddler classroom. Greeted by her teacher, she puts away her backpack, takes off her outdoor shoes, and puts on her indoor ones.

In a Primary classroom, a three-year-old prepares himself a snack, carefully slicing an apple with a metal cutter. Nearby, another classmate, 5, builds the Trinomial Cube , a set of color-coded blocks that gives children a physical representation of the trinomial formula, laying the groundwork for algebra. Meanwhile, an older friend, 6, prepares to present a report on horses she’s researched and written before the whole class.

Personalized curriculum + highly trained teachers = intellectual powerhouse

Peek into a Montessori classroom and you’ll see many things you don’t often see in most schools—toddlers eating lunch with glass plates and cups; preschoolers selecting their own “work,” as Montessori activities are called; elementary students honing time management skills with their own daily schedule; children working quietly at tables and on the floor, solo and in groups, focused in one area or moving freely around the room.

You won’t see rows of desks and a teacher lecturing at the blackboard. Montessori teachers are highly trained to observe and follow the child. Each student has an individualized curriculum, tailored to his or her developmental level and interests.

Indeed, part of the genius of Maria Montessori’s system is how it ties concepts together as a child matures. Hands-on, sensorial work in Toddler and Primary classrooms sets the stage for more conceptual learning in Lower and Upper Elementary. A toddler doing a “Practical Life” work of cleaning the table, for example, will practice making circular hand motions, which builds the motor coordination he’ll need to trace sandpaper cursive letters with his finger, and, eventually, put pencil to paper.

Facts and formulas are not simply memorized; sensory work flows naturally into more abstract concepts, making them tangible. A Montessori student starts as a three-year-old counting out 10 beads on a string, then another 10, then another and so on, until she counts enough to form a cube of 1,000 beads. When she gets to Elementary and hears the mathematical term “10 cubed,” she knows exactly what that means. (Did you?)

Trained in these developmental stages, Montessori teachers know exactly when to present a new work to a child, offering just enough guidance to give the student a sense of challenge and accomplishment—all while fostering academic standards that often exceed what we typically expect of a child that age.

Montessori—and Beyond

Montessori works, but not all Montessori schools are created equal. At Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF), children receive superior Montessori education tailored to our global society. Founded in 1966, MSLF serves 120+ students ages infant-age 12. Our international community of families comes from Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Libertyville, and more than 25 other surrounding cities. What makes us special?

Here are a few reasons why people choose MSLF over our peers:

21st-Century Enrichment Learning for Our Modern World

At MSLF, unique enrichment opportunities bring a 21st-century perspective to Maria Montessori’s timeless educational philosophy, preparing the whole child for the demands of tomorrow. Our curriculum includes:

The North Shore’s Most Comprehensive Outdoor Education and Nature Studies Program

Research increasingly shows time outdoors has critical benefits for children’s physical health, mental wellness, creativity, and concentration—especially in our tech-obsessed society. Housed on a breathtaking 5.5-acre campus complete with wildlife and wetlands, MSLF’s year-round Outdoor Classroom offers every child hands-on training in sustainability, organic gardening, and environmental stewardship.

Teachers Who Truly Know Your Child—and Exceed Expectations

Every school has that superstar teacher. At MSLF, that’s every teacher. Time and time again in parent surveys, families cite MSLF teachers as the #1 thing they love about our school. With an average tenure of 13+ years, extensive Montessori training, and a commitment to your child’s development, our faculty goes above and beyond to deliver a personalized educational experience that far exceeds the traditional classroom.

Real-World Flexibility for Your Real-World Life

We’re all busy. That’s why MSLF offers families the ultimate flexibility in education with a variety of programs and schedule options. Whether you’re looking for a half-day program or are in need of additional care from 7:30 a.m. to after hours, we provide an intellectually enriching environment that brings together independent Montessori learning with the warmth and safety of home.

Supportive Community that Makes You a Better Parent

At MSLF, we empower the family through a culture of kindness, inclusivity, and nonjudgment. Whether that’s giving you Montessori tools to make your child’s bedtime routine a little easier, teaching your preschooler conflict resolution skills, or simply offering a smile when you walk in the door after a rough morning, our community of teachers, staff, and families truly supports each other. Raising children in today’s world is no easy feat and we’re all in this together.

Ready to join us or just want to learn more? Email or call 847-918-1000 to schedule a tour today.

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R-E-S-P-E-C-T: That’s What Montessori Means To Me!

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 20:22:00 GMT

By Carolyn Lanni , Primary Directress at the Montessori School of Lake Forest

In Montessori, there are no “good kids” and “bad kids.” If a child exhibits inappropriate behavior, we redirect it in constructive ways:

Redirection extinguishes the negative behavior without the child even realizing it—their dignity intact— and instead gives them a purpose.

Conversely, if a child exhibits positive behavior, we use praise sparingly. Instead, we might point out their accomplishment or describe how a child’s actions are helping somebody, the community, or the environment:

With this approach, there is no punishment or reward system that bribes or shames children into compliance. Appropriate behaviors are expected, and the reason children exhibit them is because they help the community and support their own personal self-satisfaction. At the same time, the enthusiastic spirit within exuberant children isn’t extinguished—it’s guided into constructive activities and flourishes into self-confidence . This is utter respect for the child.

Just as Montessori respects the child, it also respects the learning process. In Montessori environments, mistakes are OK . Both children and adults realize that mistakes are necessary in order to learn.

Instead of pitting children against each other to see who can make the fewest mistakes (and then assign them a grade accordingly), we focus on the growth of each child individually. When children feel free to follow their own learning process in this way, they maintain their natural love of learning.

I personally attended traditional, public schools and got a great education. But the teachers and classrooms that I remember the most fondly—and were most effective—were those that respected me as a person and as a learner. This is the essence of Montessori. The method creates a more effective way of teaching and learning, and it’s more respectful of other human beings. It’s why I do what I do, and why I send my own child to like-minded teachers at the Montessori School of Lake Forest.

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Garden To Table Tradition Continues

Sun, 06 Oct 2019 22:30:00 GMT

In late September at the Montessori School of Lake Forest, a special tradition has grown.

The Garden to Table Harvest Dinner is a memorable evening for three families in the school’s organic garden. The seed is planted in the spring as seeds usually are! Families successfully bid on the experience at the school’s spring benefit, five months earlier in the year. The three families with the winning bids enjoy a dinner party in the school garden, graciously presented to them by their children.

Once the school year resumes in August, the planning takes root and continues to grow. The children meet with Mrs. Lunn, MSLF’s Outdoor Classroom Director, to discuss what crops will be ready to harvest the end of September. From this list the menu grows.

This year, the garden harvest included tomatoes, cucumbers, kale, Swiss chard, basil, mint, chives and apples from our school’s orchard. The menu consisted of Herb Tomato Frittata with eggs from Greta’s Goats Farm in Pecatonica, Illinois, Apple Kale & Chard Salad lightly dressed in a maple vinaigrette, Apple Spice Muffins and finished with Apple Blondies. Throughout the evening, the children refresh their parent’s glasses with Cucumber Mint water. Zinnias, New England Asters and sunflowers, all from the garden and school’s prairie, adorn the center of the table.

Students take part in every aspect of the evening’s dinner from harvest to kitchen prep, serving the meal to clearing the plates. While their parents dine the students show them where the food came from, right there, mere steps from the dinner table. The evening concluded with an impromptu student musical offering of Light a Candle for Peace . A perfect ending to our harvest dinner!

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Upper El Family Camp Out Marks End of Summer

Sun, 22 Sep 2019 05:05:00 GMT

To mark the end of summer, Upper Elementary families enjoyed their first Camp Out at MSLF. Tents were set up on the field, a potluck feast was had, along with s’mores and songs by the fire and a night hike.

Families woke to watch the sunrise and enjoyed breakfast cooked on the grill, and had a great time enjoying one of the last nights of summer in MSLF’s big backyard.

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Hope’s Back To School Night Speech

Sun, 15 Sep 2019 03:45:00 GMT

I first felt the magic of MSLF 15 years ago, when I was hired to be an assistant in Mia Stompanato’s Primary classroom. I was a college student, completing my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. I fell in love with our beautiful campus. MSLF was a hidden gem with a campus that felt like it was right out of a nursery book! Then, I fell in love with Mia and all the other amazing teachers here at MSLF, most of whom are still teaching here today… and most of whom I have had the pleasure of working with directly. Their education, experience and passion for Montessori education is unparalleled and their love and dedication for this school is apparent by their years of service.

Next, I fell in love with the children at MSLF. I was impressed more and more every day as I observed the incredible work the students at our school accomplished. Their independence, their intelligence, their resilience and their grace were like nothing I had ever seen before. Watching these children grow and develop is why I fell in love with Montessori.

I could no longer imagine teaching in a traditional classroom, and being satisfied with the education I was providing to my students. I had found MSLF and I didn’t want to leave. So, I didn’t….

I’ve been a staff member or a parent, or both, ever since. MSLF is my village. This community has helped me celebrate many joys in my life and they have supported me through struggles in my life… and I couldn’t be more grateful. Indeed, it takes a village, and you really can’t ask for a better village than the community of staff, parents and children at MSLF. Our parents will volunteer for carpool, greeting moody toddlers with a smile in the morning and walk our children to their classroom cheerfully, even while they scream if they’re struggling with drop-off. Our teachers will patiently guide our children to be independent, resisting the urge to prevent a spill or correct an error to allow our children to learn from their experiences and do for themselves. Our children show respect to each other, offering tissues and hugs to a sad classmate rather than stares or judgment. They arrive at school excited to work and learn and take pride in sharing that work and inspiring their peers. Our Board, staff and committees work tirelessly to support our school through strategic planning, daily operations, community building and fundraising to ensure that our school can continue to be the village of choice for future families, who are sure to feel the magic of MSLF! We like to say “when you choose a school for your child, you choose a community for your family.” I am proud to be a part of this community and am honored to have the privilege of being Interim Executive Director this year and support my mentors, my colleagues, my friends.

We are brought together tonight by our common interest in a Montessori education for our children and our love for our school. We have chosen an education that will prepare our children for life, allowing them to develop not only their academic skills but also independence, concentration, respect, grace and courtesy, problem solving and strategic thinking. An education that will encourage their natural curiosity and self-discovery, developing a love of learning that will lead them to success throughout life.

Now, what you may not have realized when you decided to be a Montessori parent is that you did not choose an easy path. That’s right: It is not easy to be a Montessori parent. We spend countless hours every week waiting as patiently as we possibly can while our children dress themselves, tie their own shoes, or solve problems on their own. We sit on our hands while our children learn to use utensils independently, pour from a pitcher to a glass, or prepare a snack. We fight our natural instinct to correct their spelling or give them an answer, choosing to help them find the solution on their own. We encourage them to ask lots of questions, knowing this will surely lead to our own struggle to concentrate at some point. We let them know it’s okay to disagree, when we are well aware this one will come back to bite us. But, we also know all this extra effort is well worth it because our children develop into confident, capable, intelligent, compassionate human beings. These children will change the world, in ways large and small. They will inspire and teach others, they will solve problems and rethink solutions. AND, they will be capable of preparing a meal themselves and doing their own laundry, too….

With the support of the MSLF community, we all survive the waiting, and the spills and the accidents. As part of this community, we’ll no doubt support others, share our experiences and give advice. Just as our children grow to become role models, so do we. That’s because a Montessori education at MSLF will not only serve our children, but serves us, as well, making us stronger parents and better role models.

This year at MSLF, we are excited to continue to offer our students an exceptional Montessori education, with a goal to cultivate your child’s own natural desire to learn. And we are just as excited to offer and reintroduce a number of additional programs, which support their work in the classroom, meet their developmental needs and embrace their changing world. From establishing an indoor space for our Outdoor Classroom, to reintroducing Movement in an essential and meaningful way, ensuring our Mandarin and Spanish programs are available to all students, and keeping our creative offerings of theater and choir for our Elementary students.

Above all, MSLF relies on support from our community to continue to offer these exceptional programs and Montessori education. We hope you’ll show your support for MSLF throughout the year by attending school events, joining the MPO – our new parent organization, volunteering on a committee or in a classroom as much or as little as you can, and donating to our Annual Fund and at our Annual Hope & Promise Benefit in April 2020.

I hope you all are as excited about the year ahead as I am.

Thank you again for coming tonight and for your continued support for MSLF!

– Interim Executive Director, Hope Allegretti – Thursday, September 12, 2019

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Welcome To A New School Year!

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 14:42:00 GMT

I hope everyone has had a wonderful summer. Each year it seems to fly by faster than the last, but I hope you had a moment to pause and enjoy some time together. These are the days we will remember most! I know that many adventures were had, and there are many tales for the children to tell as they return to the classroom. We are so excited to hear them all!

Here at MSLF, it has been a very busy summer indeed. Between our Summer Program, garden markets, elementary garden volunteers and new family visits, the school has been abuzz with student activity. The staff and teachers have been especially busy during the past two weeks, planning for the students return to school tomorrow. From enhancing our outdoor education program, preparing the Multi-Purpose Room for new and improved movement and P.E. programs, the development of an exciting new MSLF Parent Organization, as well as all of preparations in each of our classrooms, there has been little rest. The dedication and time devoted to preparing for the year is truly inspiring. Each and every effort ensures that the ‘magic’ of MSLF is felt the moment you walk through our doors. Wait until you see the results of this hard work!

For the year ahead, you have my commitment: to your children, to your family and to the ‘magic’ of MSLF, not only as the Interim Executive Director, but also as a Montessori educator, administrator and mother of four MSLF students.

I can’t wait to begin the year, to see all of our friends returning, to welcome our new families and staff, and most importantly – to continue fulfilling our mission and serving the needs of each and every child at MSLF.

Welcome back!

Hope Allegretti
Interim Executive Director

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Spring Admission Open House: Saturday, April 6

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 16:56:00 GMT

Now enrolling for our new 3-Day Toddler program and the 2019-2020 school year!

Please join us for an introduction and tour at our Laurel Drive Campus on Saturday, April 6, 2019 from 10:00am – 12:00pm.

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Severe Cold Weather & Mosquitoes

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 16:25:00 GMT

written by Outdoor Classroom Director, Julia Lunn

The good news about this cold snap… it will probably result in a lower mosquito population this summer!

Mosquitoes are very sensitive to their environment. Milder winters allows more of the little critters to over winter and survive. Severe cold can have a negative impact on hibernating female mosquitoes. Though the eggs stay nice and cozy underneath the winter snow, the severe cold temps can affect the survival rate of adult mosquitoes.

As well as being detrimental to mosquitoes, the severe cold temperatures will also knock out a big percentage of emerald ash borer beetles that have wiped out our Ash tree population as well as the gypsy moths which munch on our Oak savanna. Read more about that here: https://blogs.mprnews.org/updraft/2014/01/extreme-cold-may-wipe-out-high-percentage-emerald-ash-borer-larvae/

Stay warm and safe this week! While you’re home, here’s an easy recipe to make with your children at home:

Individual Apple Crisp

Ingredients:

1 small apple peeled and chopped

1 Tablespoon flour

2 Tablespoons oatmeal

1 Tablespoon butter in 4 chunks

Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375.

Place chopped apple into a small baking ramekin.

Top with flour and oatmeal.

Dot with 4 squares of butter. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.

Bake for 25 minutes.

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Libertyville Area Moms Feature Board President, Kelly Dunn Rynes

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 17:00:00 GMT

We’re proud to share this feature from local website Libertyville Area Moms! You can view the original feature here: https://libertyvilleareamoms.com/meet-a-mom-kelly/

Meet A Mom: Kelly

Kelly Dunn Rynes is a Mom of three, board president of Montessori School of Lake Forest, a real estate broker associate at Berkshire Hathaway HomeService KoenigRubloff Realty Group, and proud North Shore native.

How long have you lived here and what brought you here?

I was born at Lake Forest Hospital and I’ve lived here ever since. The nurse that was in the delivery room when I was born was the same nurse that assisted in the birth of my own three children. Literally full circle life moments! My husband is also from Lake Forest and both my maternal and paternal sides have roots in the Chicagoland area dating back more than 100 years.

The North Shore area is truly home for all of us! It’s the type of place you want to grow up in and then return to raise your own family.

Do you have child(ren)?

I have three kids:

Daughter – Paige – age 8

Son – Parker – age 4

Son – Payton – age 3

Are you involved in a local organization or business venture?

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Year in Review 2018: Montessori School embraces change in 2018

Tue, 08 Jan 2019 16:04:00 GMT

“Continuity gives us r oots, change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights.”

– Pauline Kezer

The Montessori School of Lake Forest established itself as a leader in Montessori education more than 50 years ago, and maintains a leadership position today, holding steadfastly to the core principles that develop strong, independent, resilient, respectful, world thinkers, leaders and problem solvers who will define the future for themselves. This continuity in mission, purpose and focus – to instill in every child a life-long love of learning – has stood the test of time and lightning fast changes in the world, because at its core, it is based on the observation of each child as an individual, speaking to their motivation, interest, and curiosity.

While the Montessori approach remains relatively unchanged, it is rooted in a foundation that allows students, teachers and leaders to adapt to changes in the world around them and persevere through obstacles. It embraces the unique and distinct characteristics of each and every child in order to facilitate the educational journey and milestones. The world may change, but observing the child and supporting their development within these changing dynamics does not.

Change is not only inevitable, it is critical to ensure ongoing growth and success across all aspects of society and human development. In a year of change at MSLF, the traits on which students and alumni pride themselves, resilience, adaptability, creativity, collaboration, problem-solving, and consistency, are the same ones that teachers, administrators and leaders at MSLF are using to navigate these changes. Times of challenge are also times of great opportunity, and as the school opens on a new chapter, it does so with confidence, optimism and excitement for what the future holds for the students. The promise made to children and families at MSLF remains unchanged: to provide the highest quality education and preparation for the next phase of development and ultimately for life.

Montessori children are better prepared for life, and at the core of this trait is the root of Montessori education – developing children who are able to think for themselves, manage change and adversity, and have a resilience built in through the work of learning.

Nan Barrett
Acting Executive Director
Montessori School of Lake Forest

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Prairie Restoration: Biodiversity in Eco-systems, Native Seed Bombs & Healthy Prairies

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 21:59:00 GMT

An essay by Julia Lunn, MSLF’s Outdoor Classroom Director

A healthy ecosystem starts with healthy biodiversity; that means a large variety of life! Think about your diet: broccoli’s good, but if you eat just broccoli is that a healthy diet for a growing body? No! It’s the same for an ecosystem. A healthy prairie needs sunflowers, but in order to attract a diverse amount of native wildlife it also needs a balance of grasses, sedges, forbs or wildflowers.

Led by Outdoor Educators Brandon Chartier, Alex Close and Julia Lunn, students gathered in the Ritter Story Ring for a story about the mighty oak tree. Following the story and introduction, they split off into three groups to gather native seeds from our prairie and surrounding area. Plants included Illinois Bundleflower, Milkweed, Bergamot, Cup Plant, Joe Pye Weed, Obedient Plant, and New England Aster.

Proper restoration involves encouraging natives, but also discouraging and managing non-native species. Students were introduced to the non-native plant Purple Loosestrife. Loosestrife was introduced to North America in the early 19 ^th century by European settlers. It is an invasive species that needs to be managed. Working with clippers and plastic bags, students clipped heads off of the plant and deposited them into the trash bags to be properly disposed of. One Purple Loosestrife plant can produce as many as 3 million seeds a year! If left un-managed, it would take over the prairie.

We are grateful to earlier students at MSLF for their Earth Stewardship and work to maintain a healthy prairie. In 2001 the Upper Elementary Class introduced the Galerucella calmariensis, a species of beetle with a voracious appetite for the Purple Loosestrife and a proven biological control method for the plant. I’m sure without their work we would have much more Loosestrife to manage!

After all the native seeds were collected the fun really began. Students formed mud balls and tucked the seeds into them. It was much like forming a snowball, but a lot dirtier! After the seeds were neatly tucked and the mudballs formed, the students tossed the native seed “bombs” off into the prairie. Encasing the seeds in rich soil and sowing the seeds during the cold and wet fall will give the seeds their best chance to work their way into the prairie soil and germinate.

On Tuesday. November 13, we kicked off our Outdoor Classroom initiative Hello Native!

Last year we said bye bye to the buckthorn on our property and now it’s time to say hello to the native species. Again in partnership with Lake County Forest Preserves and Lake Forest Open Lands we had an opening assembly followed by outdoor work seeding native plants. Seeds were generously provided by both LCFPD and LFOLA, and our students also collected seeds as part of their outdoor work in early October. Who knows, maybe we’ll see more Native Seed Bombs flying over our Prairie!

Check out photos from the Hello Native! Kick Off!

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Montessori School of Lake Forest announces new Acting Executive Director, Nan Barrett

Tue, 16 Oct 2018 18:50:00 GMT

As a strong community educator and leader, Mrs. Barrett held various teaching positions at Forest Bluff School, where she became School Principal. Nan has been involved in various organizations and programs, including Executive Director of Lake Bluff Preschool, presenter at LEAD’s Parent University, and Woodlands Academy Father’s Club. She is a certified “Love and Logic” facilitator and independent Parent Consultant. She has published parenting articles in Sheridan Road magazine and was hired by the North American Montessori Teachers’ Association (NAMTA) to contribute Montessori based tips for a mobile app.

“My interest and commitment to Montessori education began 30 years ago at MSLF where my daughters attended the toddler program. I am indebted to MSLF for introducing me and my family to Maria Montessori’s vision of ‘an education for life’. It has had an extraordinary impact on the happiness and success of my now adult daughters’ lives. I am excited to rejoin the MSLF community and partner with teachers, staff, and parents to fulfill our mission of providing each child with a life-long love of learning.”

Mrs. Barrett replaces Ann Jordahl, who resigned from her role as Executive Director earlier this year. “Ann has been an integral part of the MSLF community for more than 20 years and the school has benefited in countless ways. We are grateful for her contributions and wish her the very best as she embarks on her own new chapter,” said Kelly Dunn Rynes

Mrs. Barrett steps into this role at a critical time for MSLF, and joins a newly appointed Board of Directors led by President Kelly Dunn Rynes, and Vice President Jodi Shakin. Also joining the Board this year are an exemplary group of parents and community leaders: Christine Alevras, Germain Castellanos, Amanda Crisel, Samantha Falbe and Jeff Mills.

The Board of Directors is rounded out with an enthusiastic group of dedicated leaders returning for the 2018-2019 school year: Tamara Mannelly (Secretary), Dean Shaffer (Treasurer), Court Carruthers, Sarah Cassidy, Ben Grum, Chris Tennyson, Kim Wisneski, and Daniela Würfel.

About MSLF

As one of the premier Montessori schools in the nation and with a long-standing history of 50 years in the Lake Forest community, the Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF) offers exceptional learning programs for children ages birth to 12 years. Program options range from half-day to full-day and year-round academic offerings. The school is home to a diverse student body, encompassing eight countries and more than 30 communities in the Chicagoland area.

Contact: Hope Allegretti, Admissions & Marketing Director 847-918-1000
www.mslf.org

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Ms. Lanni’s Bag of Tricks

Fri, 12 Oct 2018 18:10:00 GMT

We’ve all seen it: our child’s Montessori teacher gets them to do that one thing that we cannot get them to do! It’s magic, right? Not really! You can do it, too!

Carolyn Lanni of our Primary division (children ages 3 to 6) recently shared these tips in her classroom newsletter. We think it’s parenting genius. Read on!

This curtails fibbing. If you just ask, “Did you wash your hands?” it’s very easy for the child to answer, “Yes” when they really mean, “No” or “I don’t know.”

Child: “I want some cookies for snack.” Adult: “Cookies are not available right now. Would you like pretzels or string cheese?

Child: “I don’t want to go.” Adult: “It’s time to go. Would you like to hold my hand or walk by yourself?” If the child does not choose, the adult chooses.

Child: “What is that?” Child: “What’s on your shirt?” Adult: “What IS that?” Adult: “What do YOU see on my shirt?” Child: “A frog!” Child: “Buttons. And polka dots!” This helps a child depend on their own knowledge and intelligence and builds their language skills.

When a child interrupts a conversation you are having with someone else, you can hold up your index finger to indicate they need to wait just a minute. Then when you are finished with your conversation (don’t make them wait too long), you can look at them with a smile and say, “Thank you for waiting. Now I’m looking at you.” This teaches them the cues that someone is ready to talk to them, and it develops their patience.

Instead of: “Here are your boots. Put them on. We are late. We need to get in the car and leave right now. You need to listen the first time. I need you to be a role model for your sister.” Use one word and point: “Boots.” Using as few words as possible is particularly helpful for younger children. It’s captivating, less overwhelming, and gives them a simple command to follow.

Phrasing expectations in a positive way is more helpful because (a) it clearly tells children what to do (b) they are more likely to comply. Instead of, “Stop throwing your shoes,” say, “We wear shoes on our feet.” Instead of, “Stop running,” say, “We walk in the shopping mall.” Instead of, “Stop jumping on the couch,” say, “We sit on the couch.”

Instead of: “Clean up your dinner!” Try: “Pick up your plate.” Once the child does this, then, “Put your plate in the sink.” Walking the children through it step by step is helpful when a child is overwhelmed by a multi-step process.

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Proud Montessori School of Lake Forest students raise money for Fill A Heart 4 Kids

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 20:36:00 GMT

On Thursday September 6th, the children proudly presented a check to Annie McAveeney, founder and Executive Director of the Fill a Heart 4 Kids organization, in support of their Project Smart and Survival Backpacks initiatives. See www.fillaheart4kids.org to see how you can help.

Earlier this summer, MSLF and Fill a Heart 4 Kids joined forces to march in the Lake Bluff 4 ^th of July Parade. The #Lemonade4BrighterFutures float encouraged children to host lemonade stands to benefit Fill a Heart 4 Kids. MSLF students did just that, and inspired others to do the same! The parade entry won 3 ^rd Place in the Community category, and 1,000 How-To Host Your Own Lemonade Stand cups were distributed to kids! This was repeated in the Lake Forest Days Parade, winning Most Original, and more importantly, driving greater awareness and support for kids in need.

As MSLF students presented their donation this week, teachers and volunteers sat down to collaborate on an ongoing partnership strategy. The goal, to bring families together on a regular basis to volunteer and support Fill A Heart 4 Kids and other community organizations. “Service work is a core principle here at MSLF”, said Ann Jordahl, Executive Director. “The new ‘Volunteer Corp’ has been in the works since the school proudly celebrated 50 years through the 50 Acts of Kindness initiative, so we are very proud to formally launch it.”

Stay tuned for some remarkable volunteer opportunities for every age.

About MSLF

As one of the premier Montessori schools in the nation and with a long-standing history of over 50 years in the Lake Forest community, the Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF) offers exceptional learning programs for children ages birth to 12 years, preschool through elementary grade 6. Program options range from half-day to full-day and year-round academic offerings. The school is home to a diverse student body, encompassing eight countries and more than 30 communities in the Chicagoland area.

www.mslf.org

Contact: Hope Allegretti, Admissions & Marketing Director 847-918-1000

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New artist-in-residence program brings summer workshops to MSLF

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 01:56:00 GMT

MSLF is now partnered with Libertyville artist Jenny Sweeney for a summer residency of new and exciting workshops.

Sweeney is a celebrated, multi-talented local Libertyville artist. Her art is sunny and upbeat. Influenced by being a peace-loving child of the 1970’s, she finds inspiration in the natural world around her. The colors are radiant and warm, filling the ‘canvas’, whatever that might be, with good vibes. From miniature masterpieces to big, bold canvases that make a statement, one cannot help but find something that speaks directly to them.

The youngest students used simple found, forgotten or collected items and explored collage work to create a new treasure at the Tinker Trays & Found Objects workshop. Primary students, inspired by the beautiful blooming flowers around them, used recycled materials, and a collection of things from the art cupboards to create a giant flower garden at the Giant Flower Making workshop.

MSLF hosted the final workshop, Build Your Own Cardboard City, for students 6 years or older on Aug. 6. Students used recycled boxes, collected materials and created their own unique, large-scale building. The project was completed when students came together to assemble a colorful and eclectic city.

Here are photos from Jenny Sweeney’s workshops:

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Bye, Bye Buckthorn Project Wraps-Up

Wed, 16 May 2018 20:03:00 GMT

Montessori School of Lake Forest partners with Lake Forest Open Lands Association, and Lake County Forest Preserves on their Woody Invasive Species Clearing Project .

Students at the Montessori School of Lake Forest are well versed in all aspects of cultivating a school garden, caring for their vast outdoor classroom, and appreciating the natural beauty of their outdoor environment, prairie, woodland, wetland and savanna. In October, 2017 they embarked on another educational adventure to learn about managing invasive species and saying “Bye, Bye to Buckthorn.”

On May 9 ^th , Dr. Ann Maine, President, Lake County Forest Preserve District (LCFP) joined MSLF students for the culmination of this year long initiative. Dr. Maine talked about the importance of the work the students are doing. She said, “If every neighbor of LCFP worked this hard in the effort to manage the buckthorn, we would be in good shape!” Back in October, students and teachers learned about the larger LCFP initiative and about buckthorn within their space. The impact of the balance between an invasive species and the surrounding environment was discussed, and the need for the community to unite to manage and eradicate invasive species in order to support new growth of native species. Since then, MSLF students, parents and staff have been hard at work removing buckthorn from the school’s 5½ acre outdoor classroom.

Luke Buckhardt and Peter Gordon from Lake Forest Open Lands joined the students outside. At four different workstations, children from 5-15 years, pulled and lopped buckthorn of all sizes. German Exchange students from MSLF’s Adolescent Program were among the many students pitching in on the work. Julia Lunn, an Outdoor Education Director at MSLF, noted the arrival of the Spring Ephemerals Trillium, May Apple and Virginia Waterleaf to students, showing that the work they had already done in the fall to clear buckthorn is already encouraging the growth of these special natives. “The work is ongoing. We will continue in our Outdoor Education work to manage the buckthorn”, she said.

Here are pictures from this year’s Bye, Bye Buckthorn events:

About MSLF

MSLF’s approach emphasizes the development of the whole child and encourages academic and character development equally. Curricula at each developmental level are broad and deep. Our standards exceed the Illinois State Board of Education’s requirements, and students thrive at every level. MSLF alumni go on to succeed at renowned high schools, universities, post-graduate institutions and workplaces.

www.mslf.org

Contact: Hope Allegretti, Admissions & Marketing Director 847-918-1000, hope@mslf.org

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Bake Sale Success Supports Farmers in Puerto Rico

Mon, 07 May 2018 21:20:00 GMT

MSLF Elementary students recently hosted a Bake Sale, which raised nearly $300 for the Paloma del Carmen Fund! This group of amazing children organized, promoted and executed a beautiful bake sale that completely sold out! With the money raised by MSLF, the Fund will be able to provide assistance to a farm in need, which will result in more jobs, support for the local economy and will help regrow much-needed crops destroyed by the hurricanes.

Thank you to the entire MSLF community for your support of this project. It was truly a success!

The Paloma Del Carmen Fund’s mission is to raise funds that will support the 3.5 million Americans devastated by Hurricane Maria. 100% of all proceeds from this fund will benefit victims and rebuilding efforts in Puerto Rico. Find more information and photos of the work being done in Puerto Rico here:

https://www.facebook.com/PalomaDelCarmenFund

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Upper Elementary Students Travel to Art Institute

Tue, 01 May 2018 18:16:00 GMT

On Tuesday, April 17th, the Upper Elementary class traveled to Ilan Hurtado Memorial Fund , which was established in 2014 in memory of MSLF student, Ilan Hurtado.

Ilan loved art and visiting The Art Institute of Chicago, so the decision was made by the family that the fund created in his name should be used to support an annual trip to The Art Institute of Chicago for the Upper Elementary students.

For more information, visit: https://www.5purpleoranges.org/

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Process Over Product in the Montessori Primary Classroom

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 18:42:00 GMT

By Carolyn Lanni, Primary Directress at the Montessori School of Lake Forest

Most of the work a child does in their Primary class does not involve the creation of a physical product that the child can take home to show Mom and Dad, especially when they are on the younger end of the spectrum. Instead, the experience itself with the materials is what is important—not the completion of a worksheet, test, or other physical proof that a child has worked on a certain topic. That makes it tricky as a parent to know what your child is working on and how well they understand it. They are not bringing anything home for you to assess! And to make matters worse, when you ask your child what they did at school today, they answer, “Nothing.”

Another reason we value “process over product” is we want to protect children’s natural intrinsic motivation, instead of relying on the extrinsic reward of praise from an adult. Children naturally have a love of learning, but when they are praised by an adult or get a smiley-face sticker for every worksheet they complete, they start to only want to do the work for the reward, instead of the self-fulfillment of accomplishing or learning something. They are more fulfilled when they are intrinsically motivated and see for themselves their own success than when they are judged and told whether or not they have succeeded.

Furthermore, the Montessori materials are carefully designed to have a “control of error,” which means that they show the child whether they understand or have completed a work. The trinomial cube box will only close if it’s built correctly, the button will only stay on the fabric if a child has sewn it on tightly, and there are only so many tickets for the short number chain of 5 and if you’ve counted to 24 instead of 25 then you know something has gone wrong. By and large, the materials themselves correct the children, so they do not rely on the adult for correction or praise, and they maintain their intrinsic motivation to learn and succeed.

At the same time, while many materials have a control of error, the Montessori environment also has a “friendliness with error.” We understand that people learn from the process of making a mistake, so when a child makes one, we don’t make a big deal about it. If they write a letter incorrectly in the sand tray, they shake it out and try again. If they call a parallelogram a rectangle, we kindly tell them its actual name. If a child writes 1675+2356=4132 instead of 4131, we might not even correct them if it’s early on in the use of that material. We understand that going through the process, experiencing the material, and making mistakes is how they are going to learn. Our focus is on the process, not the product itself.

As the adults trying our best to guide children as they grow and learn, we must accept that sometimes the best way to assess the child is to observe or ask them to show you how to do something, instead of relying on the completion of a worksheet or other physical product. Keeping in touch regularly and attending conferences with the teacher is also a good way to know how a child is doing in different areas of their learning. It is not easy to be a Montessori parent, but with patience, understanding, and good communication between parent and teacher, we can find the balance between supporting a child’s education while respecting “process over product.”

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Montessori School of Lake Forest hosts Artist in Residence, Kathleen Warren

Sun, 11 Feb 2018 16:30:00 GMT

With a strong connection to nature being such an integral part of Montessori education, MSLF is honored to host Winter Artist in Residence – Kathleen Warren. Kathleen’s work is inspired by different eco-systems – mountains, forests, prairies, and beaches to name just a few. Through her art, she seeks to reconnect people with those special places in nature that are meaningful or hold a special memory.

Kathleen Warren is an abstract landscape artist who uses fabric pieces sewn together to evoke the feeling of a special place in nature. Her personalized pieces are created through interviews and discussions with a client, in order to create the unique palette and design for each and every piece. Samples of her work and details of these EcoMemory pieces can be seen at www.kathleenwarrenstudio.com

About MSLF

As one of the premier Montessori schools in the nation and with a long-standing history of 50 years in the Lake Forest community, the Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF) offers exceptional learning programs for children ages birth to 15 years. Program options range from half-day to full-day and year-round academic offerings. The school is home to a diverse student body, encompassing eight countries and more than 30 communities in the Chicagoland area.

www.mslf.org

Contact: Hope Allegretti, Admissions & Marketing Director 847-918-1000

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Year in Review 2017: Montessori School of Lake Forest educates the ‘whole child’

Mon, 08 Jan 2018 02:45:00 GMT

By Ann Jordahl, Executive Director, Montessori School of Lake Forest
as featured in the Lake Forest Leader on January 4, 2018
View article online

Maria Montessori conceived the method of educating the “whole child” More than 100 years ago. The Montessori School of Lake Forest has been educating the “whole child” for more than 50 years.

Educating the whole child is achieved by showing students relationships between subjects to engage their natural curiosity and love of learning. At MSLF, students may choose to pursue their Montessori education beyond their classroom walls on lessons in outdoor education, organic gardening and cooking, physical education and movement and foreign languages. MSLF’s comprehensive span of learning opportunities provide students a hands-on exploration of these relationships and curiosities, structured in a manner that not only supports but enhances the work cycle of the student.

Students learn science, social studies, history and mathematics as well as various outdoor practical life skills while working in MSLF’s outdoor classroom, 5.5 acres of natural prairie, woodlands, wetlands and grasslands. They discover relationships between natural science and math while working in the on-campus organic garden and greenhouse, new to our campus this fall. Through experience, students develop a clear understanding of the needs of the environment and the benefits of organic gardening and composting not only for their school gardens, but the environment in general. They find value in their work as they harvest healthy fruits and vegetables straight from the garden to either cook or sell. They learn about nutrition as they prepare various recipes and practice marketing and accounting as they host Friday Market, where they sell produce fresh from the MSLF garden as well as handmade recipes and goods such as student-made pottery and embroidered tea towels, muffins, jams and soups, with proceeds benefiting the outdoor education programs at MSLF.

The Physical Education program at MSLF meets the diverse needs of all students, offering younger students additional opportunities for gross motor and coordination development, as well as older students’ development of skills and exercise through a variety of activities including obstacle course training, team sports and games, and yoga. At MSLF it is understood that intelligence is built on movement.

MSLF’s Foreign Language lessons provides students 3 years and older with instruction in Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. Not only do students learn to speak these languages, but they learn about Spanish and Chinese culture and history as well.

It is through the development of the “whole child” and the nurturing of the child’s natural love for learning that MSLF students are growing to be independent and successful citizens.

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Montessori: Where Children Love to Learn

Mon, 27 Nov 2017 20:01:00 GMT

By Mia Stompanato, Primary Directress at the Montessori School of Lake Forest
as featured in Daily North Shore on October 23, 2017
( https://jwcdaily.com/2017/10/23/montessori-where-children-love-to-learn/ )

As we roll into the second month of school, I sit back, observe my happy students and wonder what the state of education could be if every child could learn in such a blissful way.

It is wonderful to be back in school and involved in our routine again. I am so thankful for parents who support our program and show their enthusiasm for our school community. Ours is a like-minded community where parents and children work together with teachers and faculty members to gain the richest benefits from their child’s Montessori experience. The children whose families are involved and have a knowledgeable understanding of Montessori benefit the most from our program. Just as we tailor our lessons to the needs of each individual child, so can families adapt to their child’s Montessori experience to support their family’s journey.

Unlike traditional school, Montessori students remain in the same environment with the same teacher for their entire Primary (3-6 years old) developmental cycle. This enables the teacher to really get to know the child, build upon milestones and support struggles. During this three or four year span, lessons are tailored to the needs and interests of the child at a given time. This enables the teacher to offer each child the same complete curriculum, just at their own pace.

The earliest exercises provide an opportunity to develop concentration, coordination and an understanding of logical sequencing. Parents always chuckle when they hear about their child polishing wood at school. This activity provides so many benefits in addition to a polished wooden item. The child follows a series of steps sequenced in a particular manner to get the desired result. This organization of sequences is an important skill for any child to master. The intense flow of work also helps to build the child’s concentration.

Offered in tandem, lessons on sensorial materials offer a foundation for sensorial impressions that support mathematical learning. By manipulating and making discoveries on guided materials, the child truly experiences mathematical concepts and is eager to explore. These materials lay the foundation for an eager and adept mathematical mind.

During the intermediate phase of the Primary cycle, a child’s exploration and language are associated with discoveries. Thus the child has many opportunities to make observations and findings by practicing lessons over and over again. Rather than rushing the child on to a new topic, each child is encouraged to learn and explore as new levels of difficulty are offered by the teacher based on the child’s needs and abilities.

During the Extended Day phase, the child is invited to continue their work with the other 5 and 6 year olds in a unique afternoon session. Through further exploration and advanced lessons, connections and abstractions become evident to the children. It is during this phase that we see the benefits of a strong foundation of practice and concentrated work. During this phase, the child is also encouraged to offer assistance to their peers. By sharing their skills and knowledge with others, the child solidifies their knowledge and expresses it in ways that show they have internalized the concepts and are able to apply them.

A successful Primary Developmental cycle always includes the child’s Kindergarten year. When parents observe the Primary classroom, they notice the high level of work (both academic and social) of the Extended Day “class elders.” Because the children have moved up the ranks and earned their role in the classroom, they dutifully rise to the role of leader as they prepare for Elementary.

This is one of the reasons why we strongly encourage parents to allow their child to complete the Montessori Primary cycle, culminating at the end of their Kindergarten year. With the same enthusiasm as a young child placing the smallest cube on the pink tower, so our Primary Class Elders celebrate when they culminate their Extended Day experience in the Primary environment. At the end of the school year, each of our Elementary-bound Class Elders receives a “Key of Knowledge” symbolizing the foundational work in Primary that they have done to “unlock” a lifetime of learning and discovery. We welcome you to observe our magical Primary classroom, where learning, discovery and excitement are a natural part of every day.

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Authenticity in the Toddler Years

Fri, 13 Oct 2017 15:41:00 GMT

By Kristin Caldwell, Toddler Directress at the Montessori School of Lake Forest
as featured in Daily North Shore on August 21, 2017
( https://jwcdaily.com/2017/08/21/authenticity-in-the-toddler-years/ )

The Montessori method of education has as one of its cornerstones the idea of real-world activity. In observing the needs and desires of young children, Maria Montessori found that they show a distinct preference for purposeful work over make-believe play. Toddlers, especially, are very literal thinkers and eager participants in the daily tasks of taking care of the home or classroom. If given the opportunity and the materials necessary, a toddler child will happily wipe up a spill, sweep up crumbs, or help load the laundry. In a Montessori classroom, this is called the “work” of the children, and it is through tasks just like these that the young students gradually develop all manner of skills: fine motor coordination, concentration, organization, and independence to name a few. If you are sharing a household with a toddler currently (or perhaps have one as an occasional or frequent visitor to your home), you may consider adding a few items to your living space to make it more enjoyable for your young companion; a low hook on which to hang a jacket, a stool to reach the bathroom sink, a small basket of books on a low shelf in the living room. For the young child, these small modifications to the adult world are very meaningful, and send the message that they are valued members of the family (or neighborhood, or school community.) In this way, real-life activity and interaction bring authentic connection.

My final bit of advice on developing an authentic relationship with a toddler is perhaps the simplest; make a real effort to put yourself in their shoes. One of the great joys and privileges of working with toddlers is the opportunity it affords to observe and emulate the young child’s effortless and beautiful ability to be truly present. Our adult lives are filled with distractions, time-crunches, multi-tasking and screen-time—and as a result, we are often oblivious to our current situation or state of mind, choosing instead to mentally jump ahead to the next item on our endless to-do list. Children, however, have much to teach us in this regard; they want nothing more than to fully experience the present moment, in all its richness. If we provide them with an environment that calls to their senses, with activities that allow for movement and experimentation, they will take full advantage of the opportunity to engage and the learning that results will be of the highest quality possible. Indeed, it will be the type of authentic education that aids the child in construction of the self.

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Montessori School of Lake Forest partners with Lake Forest Open Lands Association, and Lake County Forest Preserves in their Woody Invasive Species Clearing Project

Mon, 09 Oct 2017 16:08:00 GMT

Students at the Montessori School of Lake Forest are well versed in all aspects of cultivating a school garden, caring for their vast outdoor classroom, and appreciating the natural beauty of their outdoor environment, prairie, woodland, wetland and savanna. They will now embark on another educational adventure as they learn about managing an invasive species and say “ Bye, Bye to Buckthorn .”

Outdoor Education staff members Brandon Chartier and Julia Lunn prepare for Bye, Bye Buckthorn!

On October 10 at 1:30pm, Ann Maine, President, Lake County Forest Preserve District will join the students at MSLF and provide the project kick-off address. Students and teachers will learn about the larger LCFP initiative and specifically buckthorn within their space. The balance between an invasive species and the surrounding environment will be discussed, the impact it has, and the need for the community to come together to manage and eradicate it in order to support new growth of native species.

Peter Gordon and Luke Buckhardt of Lake Forest Open Lands will follow up with a hands-on lesson. Providing both the tools and expertise on how to help with the restoration work, students will learn how to recognize the species, and how to remove it. Julia Lunn , Director, Outdoor Education at MSLF, explains the nature of an invasive species in terms the children understand, “It is like a bully in the garden taking all the sun, space and water from other plants.” Understanding this dynamic is a key lesson in the ongoing outdoor education program at MSLF.

Limited edition hats are available to commemorate the project

Armed with their new knowledge and skills, students will join their parents, teachers and outdoor education experts at MSLF on Saturday October 14, 9:30am – 12:00pm for the Bye, Bye Buckthorn Fall Family Work Day . With stations set up throughout the garden and woods, there will be work available for all ages. Younger helpers will focus on garden work, while older students from Primary and Elementary classes will help lead the buckthorn management stations. Families are invited to come when they can to help out, and work will wrap up for all by noon.

Limited edition MSLF Bye, Bye Buckthorn baseball caps will also be available for $15.00.

About MSLF

As one of the premier Montessori schools in the nation and with a long-standing history of 50 years in the Lake Forest community, the Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF) offers exceptional learning programs for children ages birth to 15 years. Program options range from half-day to full-day and year-round academic offerings. The school is home to a diverse student body, encompassing eight countries and more than 30 communities in the Chicagoland area.

www.mslf.org

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Calling All MSLF Alumni!

Mon, 07 Aug 2017 21:56:00 GMT

Hi Everybody!

I’m looking to get first-hand testimonials on the impact of a Montessori education in your lives. I am looking for “video” shorts (from your phone!), of you answering the questions below. I’ll use these to show parents and prospective parents, probably on the school’s website and in a short video to show at back to school nights. I hope you are up for doing this, because you are the best evidence there is for the value of a Montessori education!

Thanks so much, let me know how you are doing, and best wishes to all of you!
Ann

Interview or Selfie-Interview questions:

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Hope & Promise Annual Benefit 2017

Tue, 09 May 2017 16:05:00 GMT

If you weren’t able to make it to this year’s Hope & Promise Annual Benefit, here are some photos from the event. It was a spectacular evening, filled with loving support of our school.

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MSLF and Students Recognized for Achievement During 2017 National Latin Exam

Sun, 30 Apr 2017 18:03:00 GMT

Not only was our school recognized for its encouragement of Latin and the efforts of our students, but three students earned special recognition for their achievement. One of our 8 ^th years earned a Certificate of Achievement for the Introduction to Latin Exam. Our 9 ^th years taking the Latin I Exam each earned a medal: one earned a Silver Medal, Maxima Cum Laude, and the other earned a Gold Medal, Summa Cum Laude.

Congratulations!

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Video: Upper Elementary Presents “The Princess and the Pea: A Mash Up”

Fri, 17 Mar 2017 18:50:00 GMT

We are thrilled to share with you our video production of this year’s Upper Elementary Play “The Princess and the Pea: A Mash Up”. The performance was held on Thursday, March 2, 2017 at our very own Laurel Drive Campus. Special thanks to Matt Feddermann – Music Producer for audio/video and post production, and Intelligent Lighting Creations (ILC) for making our stage and lighting look amazing!

Enjoy!

Princess & The Pea: A Mash Up from Montessori School of Lake Forest on Vimeo .

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Adolescent Program Students and Faculty Depart for Italy!

Sun, 12 Mar 2017 22:14:00 GMT

And they’re off! Adolescent Program faculty and this year’s 9th Years departed for Italy this afternoon! This year, the Italy Trip expands to include more cities, sites, activities, and learning. For two weeks, the travelers will explore Florence (Renaissance art and architecture, Brunelleschi’s dome, Galileo and astronomy), Vicchio (centuries-old dairy farm and olive oil producer), Padua (history of science, math, medicine), Rome (ancient city, monuments, St Peter’s and the Vatican, Casa dei Bambini), Naples (archaeology museum, pizza) and Pompeii (ruins). They will climb Mt. Vesuvius to peer into the crater, and ponder the silence, steam, and stench. At selected sites, the 9th years will present their year’s research into history and culture. The trip winds up with an overnight in Amsterdam and a walk past Anne Frank’s house.

Follow their trip on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/stevesennott/
or search Instagram for “BH Italy Trip 2017”

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The Whoot 2017 was a HOOT!

Sat, 25 Feb 2017 03:59:00 GMT

Surf’s Up at MSLF! Members of the MSLF community came together to kick off the Hope & Promise Annual Benefit at The Whoot 2017! Guests enjoyed dinner, Beach Blanket Bingo, fun 1960s inspired dances, face painting, henna tattoos and more! Thanks to all who were able to attend!

View our gallery online here: https://mslf.smugmug.com/MSLF-Events/1617/The-Whoot-2017-Beach-Blanket-Bingo/

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Science Fair 2017

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 15:26:00 GMT

Students from our Upper Elementary and Adolescent Program classes presented their Science Fair work in the Multipurpose Room at this annual event. It was a great chance to view their work, and to talk with students at these two levels about what they are learning.

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Today, Like Every Other Day

Wed, 08 Feb 2017 15:53:00 GMT

Dear Members of the Montessori School of Lake Forest Community,

What does it take to be a good citizen?

In our community, we believe that good citizenship is one of the ultimate opportunities and responsibilities of adulthood. Every day here, all of us, teachers, parents, and children, strive to fulfill our principles. We speak up for ourselves, we listen, we respect the rights of others, we respect authority, we challenge each other, we build community, we act with integrity.

No matter what happens in the world outside our walls, our principles endure. They are the foundation upon which we build good citizenship. Our example will enable our children to live up to their own principles when it is their turn to lead.

As Maria Montessori said, “Character formation cannot be taught. It comes from experience and not from explanation.”

My thanks to each and every one of you, in all your different roles, for being a part of this school community. Your integrity reaches all of our children, and it is a pearl beyond price.

Sincerely,

Ann Jordahl
Executive Director

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MSLF Students Showcase Work at History Fair

Thu, 19 Jan 2017 17:45:00 GMT

Students from all divisions at the Montessori School of Lake Forest showcased their work related to History curriculum. The fair was held in November in the Multipurpose Room at the Laurel Drive Campus.

View the gallery of work below, or visit https://mslf.smugmug.com/History-Fair-2016/ to view all the work displayed at the fair.

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Montessori School of Lake Forest Launches Kindness Campaign to celebrate 50th Anniversary

Tue, 04 Oct 2016 22:17:00 GMT

The Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF) proudly launches its Kindness Campaign initiative in celebration of the school’s 50th Anniversary.

“Service work and community support are core to our well-being as individuals, families, as a school and as a society as a whole,” explained Development Director, Kathleen Marino. Through the Kindness Campaign, MSLF will demonstrate its commitment to this work by performing 50 Acts of Kindness to benefit and support those organizations that share a community, a mission for good, or a special place in the hearts of students, parents, teachers, staff, alumni and extended MSLF family and friends.

MSLF will host several school-wide Kindness Events, the first being a family night supporting Feed My Starving Children www.feedmystarvingchildren.org . There are also several parent and child led initiatives underway supporting local and personal causes – Saturday Place, www.saturdayplace.org , Orphans of the Storm www.orphansofthestorm.org and Huntington’s Disease Society of America www.hdsa.org to name just a few. Students from one Primary class have already risen to the challenge by collecting over 150 cans of soup – three times their goal – for donation to The Food Pantry in Lake Bluff, www.shieldstownship.com in just one week.

The campaign’s mission is simple – 50 Acts of Kindness to support 50 organizations or groups in need. “There is no better way to celebrate our place in the community these past 50 years than to give back to it,” said Mrs. Marino in describing the campaign.

If you have a charitable cause, or an event in need of support, the school invites you to please contact the MSLF Development Office at 847-918-1000 to see if our students and families can partner with you.

About MSLF

As one of the premier Montessori schools in the nation and with a long-standing history of 50 years in the Lake Forest community, the Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF) offers exceptional learning programs for children ages birth to 15 years. Program options range from half-day to full-day and year-round academic offerings. The school is home to a diverse student body, encompassing eight countries and more than 30 communities in the Chicagoland area.

www.mslf.org

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Montessori School of Lake Forest Appoints New President and Vice President

Wed, 07 Sep 2016 16:29:00 GMT

The Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Court Carruthers as President, and Kelly Rynes as Vice President of their Board of Directors. Also joining the Board this year are an exemplary group of current and alumni parents and community leaders: Sarah Cassidy, Laura Kosmerl, Tamara Mannelly, and Parvez Patel.

“I am grateful to be taking on this role at such an important time in MSLF’s rich history. As we celebrate our 50th Anniversary, I am honored to do so with such an exceptional group of teachers, staff, volunteers and families.” said Mr. Carruthers. “MSLF is truly an outstanding institution. I have watched my own children thrive academically, and begin growing into independent, responsible, and thoughtful individuals ”

In her 5th year as Executive Director, Ann Jordahl gears up to celebrate the 50th Anniversary, looking to the future with great hope and anticipation. She says, “We are well positioned to continue the tradition of leadership and excellence here at MSLF,“ and she also recognized the contribution of the previous years of leadership; “On behalf of the Board, Administration and Staff of MSLF, we want to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to our outgoing President, Tom Zengeler. Under his leadership the school has grown and thrived in pursuit of our mission and goals. We are well prepared and equipped with a solid vision, strategy, and plan for great growth and success for the next 50 Years and beyond.”

The Board of Directors is rounded out with an enthusiastic group of, dedicated leaders returning for the 2016-2017 school year: Jennifer Currier (Secretary), Bradford Patrick (Treasurer), Linda Brady, Jennifer Cockrel, Laura Fosselman, Ben Grum, Dean Shaffer, Laurie Shanahan, Chris Tennyson, and Kim Wisneski.

About MSLF
As one of the premier Montessori schools in the nation and with a long-standing history of 50 years in the Lake Forest community, the Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF) offers exceptional learning programs for children ages birth to 15 years. Program options range from half-day to full-day and year-round academic offerings. The school is home to a diverse student body, encompassing eight countries and more than 30 communities in the Chicagoland area.

www.mslf.org

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Welcome To The 2016-2017 School Year, From Ann

Sun, 28 Aug 2016 21:15:00 GMT

August 28, 2016

Dear MSLF Community,

As I have absorbed this summer’s steady stream of dismaying news stories, I have also reflected on how much I appreciate the strong-mindedness that unifies our Montessori community. I know for sure that we do not all agree politically or morally or religiously, or about climate change. We don’t even all agree about grammar! But we do agree that it is our common and crucial responsibility to think for ourselves, to act on our values, and to teach our children to do so for themselves.

To “walk our talk” on behalf of conscience and our children is to live the tenets of a Montessori education. Mahatma Ghandi said, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” While few of us adults benefited from a Montessori education ourselves, we live Montessori principles with our children every time we act to support the healthy development of their brain, body, and character. This takes self-discipline on our part, but it is and will be easy for our children!

We cannot promise our Montessori children that they will avoid problems as they grow up into the world. But we can promise them that they will be equipped to face and resolve problems as we try to do: with honesty, compassion, determination, and courage. And because we are providing them with a Montessori education, at school and at home, they will be adaptable people who respond to change constructively, because their characters will be well trained, they will understand society, and they will know how to learn.

For 50 years, MSLF has engaged children and their families in “the love of learning.” Whatever this year brings to the world, we will bring it more of this vital engagement that is at the heart of the Montessori School of Lake Forest community. Thank you for being a member of this wonderful community.

I wish you an excellent 2016-2017 school year, and I can’t wait to see you tomorrow!

Ann Jordahl
Executive Director

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MSLF Native Plant & Tree Wish List

Wed, 04 May 2016 21:56:00 GMT

Expanding on our partnership with the Lake Forest Open Lands Association , this year we’ve created a school “wish list” of plants and trees that will be available for purchase through LFOLA’s upcoming Go Native! Plant & Tree Sale ! The wish list will give families an opportunity to purchase native plants that will be planted by the children at MSLF’s Laurel Drive Campus, continuing our prairie restoration and stewardship work.

Orders and payment are due Wednesday, May 11.
MSLF will then place our order for the Plant & Tree Sale, and the items will be delivered to us and planted by the children.

If you have questions about the wish list, please contact Julia Lunn .

You may also wish to visit the Plant & Tree Sale!
The MSLF Wish List will be available at the sale, to select from remaining items.

http://www.lfola.org/go-native-plant-tree-sale

Thank you for supporting MSLF!

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Benefit 2016 News – Fund A Need Announcement!

Wed, 06 Apr 2016 15:08:00 GMT

Benefit 2016 Newsletter #1

The theme Where Our Roots Are was chosen because 50 years ago, a group of parents came together with the vision to establish a school based on Dr. Montessori’s educational theories. They founded MSLF as a not-for profit organization and put down the roots for the first MSLF students. This year we celebrate these roots as we prepare to mark the 50th Anniversary of the school’s opening in August of 2016.

The Benefit is one of two key fundraisers held annually at MSLF. Last year our “Fund a Need” raised $31,750 to enhance technology on both campuses and install a new audio-visual system! Hosting the One Earth Film Festival, using audio/visual technology at The Whoot, and the Elementary play are just a few of the ways our community has made very good use of our new upgrades. Thank you so much!

This year our “Fund A Need” is: Strengthening Our Roots by Investing in Teacher’s Continuing Education . As you told us in our recent Parent Survey, our teachers are the roots of MSLF. Professional development and support for continuing education for our teachers is crucial to maintaining excellence in teaching. By investing in our teachers, we are investing in our children. Just as our children are eager to learn and challenge themselves, so are our teachers. Supporting their continued professional growth promotes innovative teaching ideas, that build on Dr. Montessori’s principals, fostering environments that stimulate, provoke and excite. We hope that you can help to support this goal of investing in continuing education for our beloved teachers.

If you are interested in helping in any way or have any questions about the Benefit please contact Kathleen or Kirstin .

Thank you we look forward to Celebrating Where Our Roots Are with you!

Cheers,
Kathleen and Kirstin

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MSLF Book Fair 2016

Fri, 18 Mar 2016 19:11:00 GMT

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The Whoot was a HOOT!

Fri, 04 Mar 2016 20:32:00 GMT

Thanks to all the families who joined us for this family fun night!

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MSLF Upper Elementary Play – Friday, March 11

Tue, 01 Mar 2016 21:13:00 GMT

Our Upper Elementary class has been working on their adaptation of Kate DiCamillo ‘s book The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. The novel tells the story of a china rabbit’s adventures in the 1930s. The porcelain rabbit is owned by a 10-year-old girl, who loses him during a voyage on the Queen Mary. He spends 297 days under water until a storm frees him and is recovered by a fisherman’s wife. He is then passed around to a hobo and his dog, then a sick girl.

The class first read the novel, then with the assistance of Helen Gerbin, used improvisation to write the script for their performance. Everyone in the class has been involved in the writing, sewing costumes and preparing the set, with assistance from Jeff Daube. They look forward to seeing everyone at the event!

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MSLF Hosts One Earth Film Festival – “A Farmer’s Road”

Thu, 25 Feb 2016 22:47:00 GMT

In partnership with the host A Farmer’s Road at the Laurel Drive Campus on Sunday, March 6, 2016 at 4:00pm .

This event is FREE and open to the public, and a $5 donation per film is appreciated.

After the film, you will have the opportunity to meet with local organic farmers and Lake County organizations to discuss how educators and environmental groups can collaborate.

Lake County Schedule (online here )

This year’s festival will present three films at three venues in Lake County on March 5th and 6th. The film showings in Lake County are free and open to the public. A $5 donation per film is appreciated.
More information, trailers and tickets are available here .

Saturday, March 5:

3:00pm: Saving My Tomorrow (Family Film!)
Prairie Crossing Charter School, 1531 Jones Point Rd, Grayslake

7:00pm: This Changes Everything
College of Lake County Building C, 19351 W. Washington St, Grayslake

Sunday, March 6:

1:00pm: Inhabit: A Permaculture Perspective
College of Lake County, Bldg C, 19351 W. Washington St, Grayslake

4:00pm: A Farmer’s Road
Montessori School of Lake Forest, 13700 West Laurel Drive, Lake Forest

Information on the full festival is available at oneearthfilmfest.org .

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Benefit 2016 – Where Our Roots Are

Fri, 12 Feb 2016 16:51:00 GMT

Information for this year’s benefit is now available! Visit our benefit page for more information and how to purchase tickets. We hope to see you there!

https://www.mslf.org/benefit/

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9th Year Italy Trip Strawberry Sale going on NOW!

Wed, 03 Feb 2016 15:38:00 GMT

Get your order form HERE! ORDERS DUE MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8!

Strawberry Promotional Video from Blue House on Vimeo .

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Primary Hands-On Workshop

Thu, 28 Jan 2016 22:34:00 GMT

Parents joined us at the Laurel Drive Campus on the evening of January 27, for some experiential learning! Two of our Primary classrooms were open with our Primary teachers on hand, to give lessons and share information about the materials found in our Primary classrooms. It was a fascinating look inside the work of our Primary-aged students.

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MSLF Re-Enrollment 2016-2017

Thu, 21 Jan 2016 22:25:00 GMT

Dear MSLF community,

Re-enrollment time is here! We are busy preparing your child’s 2016-2017 enrollment information. Packets have been mailed, and are expected to arrive in mailboxes by Friday, January 15.

The deadline for re-enrollment for the 2016 – 2017 School Year is

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11.

Why is it important to complete enrollment so early? Even though our current school year is only half over, planning is underway for next school year. Part of this planning involves setting a budget, and hiring faculty. In order to know how many teachers, assistants and other staff will be needed, we have to know approximately how many children we will have enrolled. We also need to know how many spaces in our classrooms need to be reserved for our current students, so that we know how many new students we can welcome in the coming year. And all of that work is happening now in the Enrollment, Admission and Business offices. We are looking forward, to MSLF’s 50th year, and doing our best to plan for our continued success, as a school and as a leader in Montessori education.

So, please watch for your child’s enrollment envelope to arrive in the mail. Review the newly designed packet carefully. If there is anything we at MSLF can do to help answer a question which helps to inform your decision for next school year, please reach out to us to gain the answer you need to make the best decision for your child and for your family.

Our best wishes to you, and we appreciate your family making the commitment to a Montessori education and look forward to the opportunity to continue educating your child in the 2016-2017 school year.

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A Note From Ann: Re-enrollment Coming Soon!

Wed, 16 Dec 2015 17:56:00 GMT

Dear MSLF Families,

Did you know that in a good Montessori school, most things stay the same? We aim for consistency in faculty and staff and programs, and in the routines and lessons and work materials that envelop the children every day. But there is one thing that changes, and that is the ever-rising number of children enrolled here at MSLF!

This fall a very interesting phenomenon has been taking place at MSLF, whereby a surprising number of children are coming to us from good-and very local- public schools, for a very simple reason: they became bored and frustrated. Some of these children left after Extended Day and are now returning, others are new to Montessori. In both cases, they come from the very schools that we pay high taxes to support, and that our school districts and neighbors assure us are good.

During their first few days with us, each transferring child has begun to shed the impact of traditional education on their love of learning. For example, during a math lesson, one child said, “You’re teaching me MULTIPLICATION!” and ran from her chair to hug her new teacher. Another child matter-of-factly said, “I can’t do that. I was in the lowest math class.” And another child said, “No homework?!” Never fear, their love of learning wasn’t extinguished, and while one child revels in learning multiplication, the other learns that she can indeed do hard things. And all of them enjoy the respite from regimentation that allows them to control their own time and thoughts, after school.

It’s not that traditional education is “bad,” it’s just that it serves a very different purpose than does Montessori education. Let’s not kid ourselves: the job of traditional education is to educate, as well as possible, all of the children in a district, whatever their numbers or needs, whatever the wealth of the district. It’s a system of thought which necessarily relies on metrics to get the job done and to assess itself. The job of Montessori education is to educate the whole person , child by child, according to the indisputable needs of the developing body and brain.

Education seeks to secure the future of society, and it is a crucial responsibility. Both forms of education are expensive, the one perhaps more than the other. And until we have established excellent Montessori education in the public schools, it will continue to cost a lot. But Montessori education is well worth paying for now. While there are no scholarships and only very limited financial aid for pre-college education, college scholarships are increasingly hard to come by, as increasing numbers of traditionally-educated applicants present virtually identical credentials.

But anecdotal evidence from various Montessori alumni communities demonstrates that surprising numbers of Montessori alumni are being accepted at, and receiving scholarships from, a wide range of prestigious colleges and universities. High schools report that students with Montessori backgrounds consistently thrive in high school and excel in their college application acceptance rate. And colleges are showing consistent, clear interest in Montessori-educated applicants. This is happening for the simple reason that Montessori- educated applicants don’t look or sound like everyone else. They sound like themselves-like young people who know who they are, what they want, and how to achieve their goals.

It’s well worth it to pay the money now for a solid Montessori education: Not only will you see your child educated to become a highly resourceful person, but you will also very likely see them able to win awards and scholarships that seem increasingly elusive for many youth, but not for Montessori alumni, AND in the end, you will benefit from them becoming well-rounded, respectable citizens of our world.

We appreciate your family making the commitment to a Montessori education and look forward to the opportunity to continue educating your child.

Ann Jordahl
Executive Director

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The Montessori Times – 2nd Edition – 2015-2016

Tue, 08 Dec 2015 23:24:00 GMT

Read the full issue here.

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Grandparents and Special Friends Day 2015

Wed, 25 Nov 2015 23:52:00 GMT

Thank you to all who were able to join us for this special day!

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A Week of Celebrations

Fri, 13 Nov 2015 20:05:00 GMT

This week , MSLF children, faculty and staff enjoyed several celebrations.

Annual Peace Ceremony

St. Martin’s Day Celebration

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MSLF Spirit Week 2015

Sat, 24 Oct 2015 22:24:00 GMT

We had an amazing week at MSLF! From the Pajamas & Pancakes breakfast on Monday to Fall Fest on Saturday, children and families of MSLF came together to celebrate school spirit. Spirit Week also officially launches the 2015 Annual Giving Campaign for The MSLF Annual Fund.

For more information on the week’s schedule, and photos from our events, visit our Spirit Week page!

Thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers for helping to make the week a tremendous success. We look forward to watching our Giving Tree grow over the next several weeks!

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Life After School – by Jeff Daube, Elementary After School Club Director

Fri, 16 Oct 2015 14:40:00 GMT

The students attending the After School Club will have many opportunities for creative expression this year. There are many resources to work with, particularly in the fiber arts. Students have already taken advantage of the weaving and sewing materials.

We have made salt dough clay, and the children have taken home their sculptures. Literature is included, with an emphasis on exposing the children to the “classics”: we’ve sung “The Old Lady Who Swallowed the Fly,” read The Little Engine That Could , and have The Little Red Hen lined up.

‘Pattern’ is the theme in the activities presented in After School Club. With the visual arts, the pattern produced by shapes or hand gesture will be highlighted. With music, the pattern of rhythm and language in song. Through the reading of the classics, the pattern of a story or poem. In games or outdoor activities, the pattern of physical gesture.

The pattern of the work cycle is reinforced as well: choose your activity, enjoy your activity, and return your activity to where someone else can find it to choose.

Life after school, from day to day to diploma, is the time for students to apply, think about, practice, doubt, manipulate, create, and share all the new knowledge they’ve been presented or have discovered themselves. My objective in the After School Club is to provide these opportunities, in an environment which is prepared to support many ways to use knowledge. It’s going to be a great year!

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The Montessori Times – First 2015-2016 Edition!

Fri, 09 Oct 2015 19:21:00 GMT

Read the full issue here .

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Remembering Sierra Carroll, MSLF 2009

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 23:37:00 GMT

Below is the letter sent to the MSLF community on September 30, 2015.
If you would like to make a gift in memory of Sierra, please visit our memorial giving page .

Dear Montessori School of Lake Forest Community,

Early this week members of our community learned that MSLF alumna Sierra Carroll had died over the weekend. Sierra’s family eventually confirmed this news, then asked us to inform the full MSLF community of her passing. However the family has maintained careful privacy regarding the events of her death, and they have asked all of us to respect this desire for privacy, in honor of Sierra.

Sierra came to MSLF as a three year old student and she graduated from the Adolescent Program in 2009. As a young adult, she worked in Summer Splash and she served as a Primary classroom assistant last year. Many teachers, students, parents, and alumni came to know and love Sierra well. This fall, Sierra was in college in Oregon.

Services for Sierra will take place early next week in Huntley, Illinois. More detailed information about the services can be found here .
MSLF’s immediate community has been hard hit by the loss of someone we knew so well. And it is likely that this loss will be felt by many more of us, near and far. We have a strong history of offering compassion and care when someone in our MSLF world is in distress. I know that we are ready to give this support now and in the days and weeks ahead. Our hearts go out to Sierra and to her family and friends during this time of haunting and heartbreaking loss.

Please know that my heart goes out to all of you, as well. Whether or not you knew Sierra, it is painful to learn of the loss of one so young, who had already achieved so much loving and learning, and who had so much more in front of her.

Ann Jordahl
Executive Director
ann@mslf.org

Sierra V. Carroll

Sierra V. Carroll, 21 of Lake Bluff, Illinois died suddenly September 28, 2015 in Salem, Oregon where she was attending Willamette University.

Visitation for Sierra will be on Monday, October 5, 2015 from 4-8pm at DeFiore Jorgensen Funeral Home-10763 Dundee Road, Huntley, IL. A funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:00am on Tuesday at St. Mary Catholic Church-10307 Dundee Road, Huntley, IL. Burial will be at St. Mary Cemetery.

From the time she was very young her sense of humor and intelligence eminated from her little being. Even when she was baptized at 3 months she stopped the young priest mid-ceremony due to the fact that she watched him intently and he felt she was taking in his every word. That was Sierra, her quiet observant, nature brought grace into all situations as she could gauge what was needed and when. This is what made her shy sense of humor perfectly timed and well received.

She cared deeply for everyone. She brought joy into situations and was able to resolve conflict with an insight beyond her years. One of the best memories of Sierra was as a young child she would tie pretty ribbons on the drawer handles, she wanted to bring beauty and her artful touch everywhere she went. Every day we can all hope to run into that beauty with all the spirit that has been left behind in all she has touched. We miss her tremendously and wish beyond words that we could give her one more hug. We love you Sierra.

Sierra is survived by her parents, Jill Loforte Carroll, of Lake Bluff, IL her father, Daniel Carroll of Park Ridge, IL and by her sister, Kelly Carroll. She is also survived by her maternal grandparents, Anthony and Janet Loforte of Huntley, IL and by many aunts, uncles and cousins. For further information please call the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or on-line condolences may be directed to www.defiorejorgensen.com

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Upcoming Admission Open Houses

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 16:30:00 GMT

Through this challenging practical life work, a young child learns how to use thread, a needle, fabric, scissors, an d a button with the ultimate goal of sewing the button onto a piece of fabric. In the process, she learns so much more: fine motor control, the development of concentration, the responsibility of working with sharp objects, and the execution and completion of a task. Montessori education challenges children to push their limits and realize their potentials, and often to surprise the adults around them of their capabilities.

Please join us for our upcoming Saturday Admission Open Houses on October 3rd and November 14th from 10 AM to 12 PM . We offer weekday Open Houses on Wednesdays at 9:30 AM or by appointment. To RSVP, please call 847-918-1000.

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Upcoming Adolescent Program Events

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 14:16:00 GMT

9th Year Car Wash – Thursday, September 17

This Thursday, September 17, our Blue House students will be at the Laurel Drive Campus for a car wash. They are raising funds for the 9th Year Italy Trip! More information: 9th year car wash

Join us at the Laurel Drive Campus, 11:30am – 3:15pm near the service entrance, for our first Friday Specialty Market. The market will feature products from the Blue House students and farm, including buttons, honey, cookies and produce. More information: Specialty Market Flier

Run/Walk with us or help sponsor the event! The race will take place in Prairie Crossing on Oct. 2nd from 4:30 to 6:00. More information: Run for Rome

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Ann’s Message – Welcome Back to a New School Year

Fri, 24 Jul 2015 20:20:00 GMT

July 24, 2015

Dear MSLF Families,

Something very special is going on here at the Montessori School of Lake Forest.

You can see it in our youngest students as well as our alumni. This summer, a record number of alumni work here as summer helpers alongside current students of all ages. This summer children are engaged in activities both inside and outside the classroom, from swimming and hiking, nature study and making s’mores, to reading, math and studying countries like Tanzania, India, Canada, and Germany. Their alumni helpers show their Montessori roots as they take everything in stride with optimism, good problem solving skills, and humor. And from youngest to oldest, students and alumni share the same traits of common sense, capability, and high spirits. If you want to know how adaptable and successful your children will be, come see for yourself!

As you can tell, Summer Splash is progressing splendidly, and the 2015-2016 school year is already off to a wonderful start. I’m eager to tell you about it. Throughout this year you’ll have plenty of chances to hear from Alumni . We’ll host them for a panel discussion and plenty of other related events.

There is so much more to tell you, but I’ll wait to do that in person. Welcome back to another wonderful year at the Montessori School of Lake Forest. I can’t wait to see you!

Best Wishes,

Ann Jordahl
Executive Director

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Montessori Times – Final Edition of the Year

Wed, 03 Jun 2015 20:10:00 GMT

Download the full edition of Montessori Times Here !

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Adolescent Program Director Announcement

Fri, 15 May 2015 19:48:00 GMT

Dear MSLF Community,

We are pleased to tell you that we have succeeded in filling the role of Montessori School of Lake Forest Adolescent Program Director. Since Ann Jordahl left this position in order to lead the school in June, 2013, we have conducted two formal searches and directly approached several individuals, in ongoing efforts to fill this position. We are grateful to Bev Adamczyk who agreed to temporarily direct the Adolescent Program during the 2013-14 school year.

We searched carefully for an individual to fulfill our Adolescent Program’s distinctive criteria, including:

After a 3 year search, MSLF has appointed Stephen Sennott , a teacher and youth mentor who worked at Illinois Institute of Technology, where he served 14 years as Assistant Dean and adjunct professor in the College of Architecture. Steve is already known to many in the MSLF community, most recently as a Chicago tour guide for the Adolescent Program, a former committee volunteer, an alumni parent, and the spouse of Ann Jordahl.

Steve’s application and qualifications indisputably established him as our single strongest candidate for the position. His deep familiarity with Maria Montessori’s collaborative approach to education and community has informed his teaching, advising, and administrative tasks. The Adolescent Program students will be well served, too, by his experience as a mentor for Chicago-area middle school and high school students engaged in the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s Saturday Studios and as the director of IIT’s summer high school workshop, “Experiment in Architecture.”

We have worked carefully with MSLF’s Board of Directors and have pursued this opportunity fully aware of the challenge and promise it offers. Per their guidance, candidate interviews were conducted by a team. The selection process prompted a useful review of procedures, and to maintain the integrity of our employee communications we have added a formal whistleblower policy to the Employee Handbook. In addition, Ann has taken steps to insure that Steve’s formal report and review process will be conducted by another employee than herself.

We are confident that Steve will foster the MSLF Adolescent Program as a teacher, mentor, and program director. To this end, he will seek to develop relationships with the full MSLF community beginning this spring, before he formally joins the MSLF faculty this fall. He will be reaching out to faculty and students and there will be opportunities to meet him during the spring and summer. Please feel free to invite him to events or to contact him with ideas or questions.

We are fully committed to maintaining the Montessori School of Lake Forest as an open learning community, focused on serving the parent-child-teacher triad, on behalf of all of your children. To that end, we seek to hire only the very best in faculty. Please contact either of us with comments, questions, or concerns. As you know, the door is always open.

Best wishes to all of you, and please join us in welcoming Steve to MSLF.

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Feeding the Powerful and Hungry Mind

Thu, 30 Apr 2015 14:34:00 GMT

“The problems that exist in the world today cannot be solved by the level of thinking that created them.” — Albert Einstein

MSLF Elementary students see problems all around them and find solutions. Imagine the level of commitment and thinking they will bring to the world-problems they will face as adults.

Over the past school year, MSLF’s Elementary students:

Elementary education is the great Montessori secret! Elementary children grow fast, focus on problem- solving, use compassion to face loss, want to work in groups and learn how to lead. These qualities point to the Elementary child’s strongest trait: A powerful and hungry mind.

Excellent Elementary education is vital, for a child’s brain will never again be as receptive and powerful as it is during the years from 6 to 12. Elementary age brains need to be stimulated and guided by inspiring and knowledgeable educators who feed learning via the vast Montessori Elementary curriculum of “cosmic education.” MSLF Elementary students connect to the world in complex and challenging ways. They grow up to join the ranks of the innovators and problem-solvers who make their childhood visions come true.

Join an Elementary class for an observation. You’ll see that these students have things to learn and places to go, and they’ll reach their goals by hand, on foot, by telephone and Skype, through planning, hard work and practice, by committee and meeting, by appointment, by car and public transit, and on the wings of their soaring imaginations! Travel with these adventurers as they investigate the myriad realities of the cosmos they call home.

Best Wishes, and see you down in Elementary!
Ann Jordahl
Executive Director

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Summer Camp Details

Fri, 24 Apr 2015 19:39:00 GMT

The Elementary Camp activities will be nature-based, academic, customized to the campers’ interest levels, student-driven, and will place an emphasis on team-building. Opportunities may include working with tools to learn some basic woodworking skills and gardening; exploring outdoor environments both at MSLF and area forest preserves; bringing back samples from their explorations to study under a microscope; and studying various cultures. Plans include hosting Pioneer Week, where students will learn to cook outdoors using Dutch ovens, play colonial games, and experience an Oregon Trail simulation. An Overnight Camp-Out on the MSLF property may be offered once per session.

Week 1: Asia

Week 2: Africa

Week 3 & 4: North America

Week 5: Europe

Week 6: South America

Week 7: Australia

Week 8: Antarctica

DOWNLOAD A SUMMER SPLASH APPLICATION

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A Cause for Paws, by Olivia Vrablik

Tue, 21 Apr 2015 13:00:00 GMT

In January, as is the tradition for ninth grade students in the Adolescent Program, I made plans to make chocolate covered strawberries for a Valentine’s Day fundraiser. Along with the help of 8 ^th year students Alaina Lykins, and Anna and Catherine Kubiak, we made a total of $393 in profits. When I was deciding where to donate the money, I ultimately choose an organization that I had some experience with in the past, Orphans of The Storm . Our family often visits the animals there and we were there recently, and I realized that even the smallest donation can help the animals.

One of the most important elements of choosing where I would donate the funds was donating somewhere that was important to me and somewhere I have some experience working with, because it would allow me to see where the money would be going, and how it was being used. This organization is also one that is trustworthy because of its longevity and relevance in the North Shore community. Not only have they been around for almost 100 years, they are also so welcoming when you go to visit the animals and you feel that they really care about their cause. Orphans of the Storm was founded in October of 1928 by dancer and actress Irene Castle, and ever since, the organization has been a home for animals in need of a safe home. The money raised will go towards buying food for the dogs and cats, and medical attention that the animals would need while at the shelter.

Thank you to everyone who purchased chocolate covered strawberries to help fund my donation!

– Olivia Vrablik

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Video from MSLF’s Dare to Soar Benefit

Fri, 17 Apr 2015 20:40:00 GMT

Thank you Michael McAfee for producing this beautiful video of our school.

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The Montessori Times

Wed, 08 Apr 2015 23:10:00 GMT

Read the full issue Here .

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Teacher Spotlight: Monica Pearson, Primary

Tue, 24 Mar 2015 17:32:00 GMT

In 1996, I attended a Montessori information meeting to learn about the Montessori teacher training program in Hinsdale, Illinois. I remember walking out of that meeting feeling confident that I knew what I wanted to do. Hearing about Maria Montessori, her passion, her life work, was so inspiring. At one of Montessori’s many lectures, she said, “establishing peace is the work of education.” I knew I wanted to be a part of that philosophy, that way of life. I felt an overwhelming sense of peace in that I had found my calling and felt that I could make a difference by becoming a Montessorian. This is where my Montessori journey began.

In 1997, I had the fortunate opportunity to do my internship year working under the leadership of Diane Roberto at the Horizon Montessori School in Cleveland, Ohio. This internship led to a position as the lead directress for the full day program at Horizon. After teaching there for 2 years, I moved to Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania and began teaching a Primary full day class at the Western Pennsylvania Montessori School under the leadership of Carol Miskell. I taught there for 2 years until my personal life led me back home to Illinois, to the charming town of Lake Bluff. As soon as I walked into the Montessori School of Lake Forest and was greeted by so many smiling, friendly faces, I felt at home. I have been a directress in the Primary 5 room for 13 years now.

When I was in my teacher training, I learned about The Prepared Environment, which has since become a passion of mine. Daily, I put my heart into creating a space that is beautiful, nurturing, and inviting for the children and adults. It is such a privilege for me to prepare an environment for the children where they can develop independence and build confidence through trust and respect, and I am delighted to witness the sense of wonder, the love of learning, and the respect the children have for themselves, one another and their environment. I recognize that these precious children are the future and do my best to prepare them to be good citizens. Having a Peace Flower in my classroom with which children can learn to communicate with words and solve problems peacefully is just one example of my ultimate goal and passion to prepare children for life and give them tools to carry on Maria Montessori’s vision for peace.

— Monica Pearson, February 2015

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Teacher Spotlight: Eva Leung, Primary

Mon, 23 Mar 2015 17:29:00 GMT

Learning and teaching came naturally to me, so I decided to follow my heart and pursue a college degree in Early Childhood Education and become a kindergarten teacher. I learned about Montessori education at Grantham College of Education in Hong Kong, where I graduated with a degree in early childhood education, and then started teaching in Our Lady Kindergarten in Hong Kong from 1980-1995. After I married, I was very excited to start a family of my own. I had my first son Keith and was doubly-blessed the following year with twin boys, Andrew and Daniel. I was so excited that I was now able to raise my own children with the Montessori philosophy.

In 1995, my family and I moved to the United States, and the following year, I started to work as an assistant at MSLF. I was fortunate to work with two wonderful mentors. Through careful observation and working along with them, I saw how the philosophy, materials, and environment are all natural ways to support how children work and learn. I fell in love with my work and enjoyed it so much I could not wait to have my own classroom. With my mentors’ strong encouragement, I started my Primary Training at the Ohio Montessori Training Institute in Cleveland OH, which I completed in 2004.

For the next ten years (1996-2006), I recognized that many children spent long hours in school, and I thought it would be wonderful to create a Montessori After-School Club for the children and their families. I created an environment with music, art, cooking, knitting, sewing and Chinese where the children could continue to work and grow in a Montessori manner after school hours. In 2006, I became the directress of the Primary After-School Club. In the Clubroom, we work as a big family with primary children from four different classrooms; siblings and friends work together in a homelike environment which embodies the Montessori philosophy. I encourage children to choose their own developmental path: to learn at a deeper level, increase their social skills, and have more authentic experiences. In addition to my primary training, I hold a Certificate of Music in Pianoforte Playing and Theory from The Royal School of Music in Hong Kong, which enables me to teach the children the art of music appreciation and movement. The children are now enjoying many songs in English and Chinese.

I have taught Chinese lessons in the Primary classroom since 2008 and in Elementary since 2012. I have created all of my Chinese materials according to the Montessori Method while also using music, songs and videos to help children enrich their learning experiences.

All three of my sons are successfully living and working in Hong Kong, and I have recently been blessed with a grandson, Princeton. In my free time, I enjoy my exercise classes and playing the piano. I love to visit my 98 year old grandmother and most importantly to visit with Princeton on Skype in Hong Kong. I look forward to Princeton attending MSLF in the near future.

— Eva Leung, February 2015

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Teacher Spotlight: Tami Levandowski, Primary

Thu, 19 Mar 2015 17:29:00 GMT

I always wanted to be a teacher. At the age of five, I would pretend to be in front of my imaginary classroom of students. It was no surprise to anyone that when I went to college, I majored in elementary education. During the summers, I worked as a nanny in Arlington VA, and Hampton, CT. After I graduated with a BA from the University of Wyoming, I worked in public school, but felt like something was missing in this traditional way of teaching. There was never enough time to work with every child that needed my help. I felt most of the class was on task, but some children needed extra help and some children needed to be challenged more. I didn’t know how I could reach every child’s needs.

In 1998, I finally did move back to Illinois and responded to an ad for an assistant at MSLF. I had never heard of Montessori before. It was never mentioned in any of my college classes, and I had no idea what to expect. When I first observed a classroom, I was blown away! I saw these little children doing amazing things: three year olds sewing with real needles, four year olds learning to read, five year olds doing multiplication! It wasn’t just the academics either. It was the way these children showed respect for the environment. They were cleaning up after themselves and helping each other without being asked. The children showed confidence and independence I never knew young children could possess. It was so different from anything I had ever seen, and it seemed just the right fit for me.

That first year, I worked as an assistant with Mia Stompanato. I loved it so much I decided to become a Montessori teacher. I went to the Montessori Midwest Teacher Training Center in Evanston, IL, where I received my Montessori degree. When Mia went on maternity leave with Gianna, I took the position as lead directress and have had my own class ever since.

Every day, working here at MSLF is a new experience. I LOVE teaching and learning from the children, and am inspired by their love of learning. Recently, I have become a mother, and I know my son, Griffin, will benefit from my experiences here. At the same time, I think being a mother will help me be an even stronger teacher.

— Tami Levandowski, February 2015

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Teacher Spotlight: Mia Stompanato, Primary

Thu, 12 Mar 2015 20:10:00 GMT

Recently, I realized that I have actually spent the last half of my life teaching Montessori. My own Montessori path and upbringing helped pave the journey to reach this point.

I grew up in a suburb on the southside of Chicago in a colorful Greek household. We were always cooking or entertaining or planning our next family vacation. Although both of my parents were born in America, my grandparents who lived through the Depression were a major influence in my upbringing.

From a young age, we all learned to participate in family life. Although my older brother and sister remained home for preschool, my mother enrolled me in a Montessori school that had just opened in Palos Heights. I have fond memories of the practical life work: scrubbing and using the child-sized mop and broom in my classroom.

Unfortunately my “love of learning” came to an abrupt halt when I started Kindergarten in the public school the following year. The teacher repeatedly told me I needed to keep my comments to myself and wait to share until everyone in the class had a chance to speak. Luckily, I had a few great Elementary teachers along the way who encouraged me to set goals for myself that were more in keeping with my eagerness.

My father had a small grocery store in Alsip and by the time I was old enough to walk there on my own, I would help out fronting shelves and pricing merchandise. My father was an amazing man who would inspire people to do their best. His enthusiasm and belief in me encouraged me to experience life to its fullest.

As a business major and English minor at Lake Forest College, I was allowed to dabble in many different interests to find my true vocation. First, I did an internship at the not-for-profit International Visitors Center in Chicago. Then, I thought I wanted to go into hotel management but after participating in an internship at the Marriot Courtyard, I realized the monotony of the job was not for me. My junior year, I spent six months in Greece, traveling with an archaeology program. Spending day and night traveling with my classmates and teachers, I had a new found respect for the academic, social and emotional support that the teachers offered us as we traveled through Greece. Although the subject matter was the same for everyone, our teachers did a great job of adapting the curriculum to meet our individual needs. It was at that time that I realized my calling was in education.

When I returned to Lake Forest College I was ready to switch majors. Before doing so my advisor encouraged me to check out Montessori and assigned me a marketing study at the Montessori Country Day school in Mundelein as part of my business curriculum. This was a perfect way for me to receive my Business Degree and then pursue my Post Graduate Montessori Degree.

I started researching Montessori training programs and decided to move to Milwaukee the following year to receive my International Montessori teaching degree. At the time I had grand hopes of teaching in Australia or Greece. Upon entering the Montessori training classroom, I had a wonderful feeling of warmth and déjà vu, returning to a place that had brought me such happiness in my childhood.

I spent the next 10 years teaching in a Primary Class (first in Mundelein at the school where I had done the marketing study and then at MSLF). I loved every minute and was so happy that I had found my niche. After I got married, there was an opening in the Administration, and Lissa Hektor, the Executive Director, encouraged me to join her as the Admissions Director and Summer Camp Director.

The students joined me in a mock wedding celebration and my tenure in the classroom came to a brief halt. Ms. Levandowski, who originally worked as my assistant, took her Montessori training, completed her internship with me and eventually took over my class. As the Admissions Director, I enjoyed working with families but greatly missed the children. Luckily during that time my own daughter was born and I was able to apply my Montessori training to her Montessori education. She was the school mascot (affectionately referred to as “Baby Gianna”) and would often take naps in the office. When she was 15 months old, she joined the MSLF Toddler Community and has been enrolled at the school ever since.

Gianna has greatly benefited from her Montessori education. She is currently an 8th year student at our Blue House Adolescent Program. She is an avid and dedicated figure skater. We begin most mornings at 6AM at the skating rink where she practices her moves, jumps and routines. I believe her Montessori foundation has helped inspire her values of perseverance and dedication. So many of the wonderful traits that we try to foster in the classroom, I am witnessing in my own daughter.

Both at home with Gianna and at school, I continue my Yiayia’s tradition of baking. Every morning my students help to create a baking dough or grain base that is then formed, topped and baked as a snack in the classroom. As part of the Adolescent Program curriculum at the Blue House, Gianna has the opportunity to plan, shop, cook and clean up her weekly lunches. And I am proud to say that Gianna is carrying on the tradition of her Greek ancestors as she loves making “recipe-inspired” dishes to share with her friends.

In addition to baking for my students, family and friends, I started up a biscotti business a few years ago at the urging of my nieces. My Italian mother-in-law shared her biscotti recipe with me when we got married. What started as holiday gifts for my friends has grown into a little side business to fund Gianna’s figure skating. It is called Dolce Mia Biscotti. Every month, I offer a few flavors of biscotti and gluten free Energy Drop cookies. There is something always brewing at our house.

On the weekends, I enjoy spending time with my family. On Sundays, I teach preschool at the Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church. I also run their Vacation Church School program.

I am so fortunate that I received a Montessori foundation and that Montessori is still a part of my life. I love spending my days with like-minded individuals who love learning and enjoy life. I think the world would be a better place if everyone followed the simple model of a Montessori classroom!

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Teacher Spotlight: Carolyn Lanni, Primary

Thu, 12 Mar 2015 20:08:00 GMT

One year after graduating from Beloit College with a degree in Anthropology, I moved to Taichung, Taiwan to teach English. I taught a wide range of students, from ages four to adult, but most of my time was spent with 4-year-olds. Although I had initially moved abroad to learn a new language and live in a foreign country, I quickly realized how much I loved being and working with children. When I returned to the U.S., I enrolled in a Masters in Teaching (MAT) program through Dominican University to become a licensed K-9 teacher. At the same time, in January 2010, I joined MSLF as Tami Levandowski’s assistant in Primary 4. I was brand new to Montessori, but it didn’t take long for me to realize that this was how education was supposed to be, and this was what I wanted to do.

It was interesting to be in my traditional MAT program while simultaneously working in a Montessori environment. Many aspects of traditional education are moving in the right direction, with more emphasis on choice, differentiation, and learning at one’s own pace. But all that my professors could offer were essentially “tricks” to attempt to provide pieces of a child-centered education within a system that was still, at its core, teacher-centered. Montessori, on the other hand, was clearly operating primarily with the child in mind and meeting all of a child’s needs — academic, social, and emotional — while still keeping that inherent love of learning burning. I completed my Masters in Teaching but knew that I could not leave Montessori. With support from MSLF, I completed my AMI Primary training in St. Paul, Minnesota in 2013, and became the director of Primary 1 during the 2013-2014 school year. Very frequently, I look around at the children working and helping one another and loving learning, and I marvel at the fact that I actually get paid to spend time with and guide these wonderful people.

In my spare time, I cook, listen to podcasts, read, attempt yoga, travel (or dream of it), and take care of my pitbull, Lucy. I have played the flute for most of my life, and last fall I began cello lessons. As a teacher, these lessons have been quite illuminating for me, as they have reminded me what it is like to struggle, be completely and utterly confused, and need to be told something ten times before it sinks in. Basically, they have reminded me what it is like to be a child. These lessons have really helped me identify with the daily struggles and triumphs of the three-to-six-year-olds I guide each and every day. And on a personal level, they have helped me continue to fulfill my love of learning.

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The Montessori Times

Thu, 05 Mar 2015 21:23:00 GMT

Download The Montessori Times – February 2015

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Students Celebrate the Chinese New Year

Thu, 26 Feb 2015 17:25:00 GMT

To celebrate the New Year, each student is making a traditional red envelope, which children typically receive from adults and contains money in certain amounts that reflect good luck and honor. Students have watched a video to experience a traditional Lion Dance and to see a celebration of fireworks from around the world. Mrs. Leung has taught the Primary Students a traditional Chinese New Year song, and the Elementary Students how to write the Chinese character for sheep.

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MSLF Parent Gulden Mesara-Dogan publishes her first book

Thu, 26 Feb 2015 17:21:00 GMT

Mommy Goes to the Office is a picture book which is designed to improve communication between a working parent and his/her child. The book tries to help young children understand what happens in an office setting and how a parent spends time at work. The narrative is told from the perspective of a young girl as she describes the different tasks her mother does throughout the course of her professional day and how she makes time to spend with her family, too.

Mesara-Dogan is a senior executive at a Fortune 200 company and has been a working mother for 9 years.
Mommy Goes to the Office is available at Amazon.com.

Congratulations to Gulden!

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An Inspirational Message from One of Our Very Own…

Thu, 26 Feb 2015 17:05:00 GMT

“It is indeed a form of love that gives children the faculty of observing in such an intense and meticulous manner the things in their environment that we, grown cold, pass by unseeing. . . This active, ardent, meticulous, constant absorption in love is characteristic of children.”

~Maria Montessori, The Secret of Childhood

Welcome winter! One of the great joys and privileges of working with toddlers is the opportunity it affords to observe and emulate the young child’s effortless and beautiful ability to be truly present. Our adult lives are filled with distractions, time-crunches, multi-tasking and screen-time-and as a result, we are often oblivious to our current situation or state of mind, choosing instead to mentally jump ahead to the next item on our endless to-do list. Children, however, have much to teach us in this regard; they want nothing more than to fully experience the present moment, in all its richness. If we provide them with an environment that calls to their senses, with activities that allow for movement and experimentation, they will take full advantage of the opportunity to engage and the learning that results will be of the highest quality possible. Indeed, it will be the type of authentic education that aids the child in construction of the self.

We can think of the winter season as a time of respite; a time to slow down, take stock, and rededicate ourselves to being present. Rather than wishing away the cold weather and counting down the days until spring, we can embrace the beauty of snow-covered earth, the clean feel of the wind, and appreciate the coziness there is to be found in gathering together. And rather than always hurrying our children along to the next task, or impatiently anticipating their next milestone, we can embrace the special gift they have to offer us each and every day, if we will only slow down enough to notice-the gift of being fully, authentically, inspiringly present.

— Kristin Caldwell, Toddler 1 Directress

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Upper Elementary Students Skype with Scientist in Antarctica

Thu, 29 Jan 2015 20:45:00 GMT

Scientist Yamini Bala is a member of the Velvet Ice Team and a certified IL high school teacher. For six weeks over the winter, this all-women team is studying melting and freezing patterns of ice in the West Antarctic Ice Sheet, the fastest-melting and least stable part of Antarctica. Through their research, Bala and her team are looking for patterns to analyze causes and effects of climate change.

Through a one hour Skype chat with the students, Bala shared a slide show which explained her mission and an overview on climate change. Students enjoyed receiving access to Bala’s blog and continue to check for updates on her team’s progress both inside and outside of school time.

For more information on the Velvet Ice Team and updates on their research, please visit their blog at www.polartrec.com

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Teacher Spotlight – Kathryn Jasinski, Lower Elementary

Thu, 15 Jan 2015 16:31:00 GMT

My Montessori journey began as a freshman at St. Mary-of-the-Woods College in Indiana. I really just fell into Montessori. During my first months at college, I discovered a Montessori classroom on campus, which included a Montessori teacher training course. I seemed to be at the right place at the right time. The college had no early education or Montessori education major, so I continued my Home Economics studies along with the Montessori studies. I had the luxury of spending four years in the Montessori classroom under a great Montessori mentor teacher. I also had a one year student teaching experience during those college years. As I finished my undergraduate program and Montessori training, I was encouraged by my mentor teacher to go to Ireland to take the Montessori elementary training and the Montessori special needs training at Sion Hill Montessori College at Backrock in Dublin, which I did. The rest appears to be history.

I have been fortunate to have worked under great Montessori mentors some of who themselves worked with Maria and Mario Montessori. I have completed two master degrees. My first masters was in curriculum and instruction with a specialization in Montessori Elementary Education from Cleveland State University in Cleveland, OH. This program was a pioneer program in the U.S. My second masters from St. Mary-of-the-Woods was in Earth Literacy, an excellent companion to our Montessori Elementary Cosmic Education. I also hold a state teaching license in Elementary Education for grades 1-5. I have benefited from a variety of Montessori colleagues and Montessori experiences I have encountered around the world.

I find Montessori work to be so important. Amid daily worldwide crisis, Montessori provides a guiding light for peace and harmony as a possibility for the future. In Montessori, we have a rich history to build upon, yet every day is different with the interests and opportunities the children bring to us in the classroom. I enjoy planning and preparing for the Montessori work in the classroom with the children, families, and the MSLF Community.

Recently, I have become a great-aunt and enjoy my new role in the family. I enjoy reading, embroidery, garden work, traveling, and caring for my parents.

— Kathryn Jasinski, January 2015

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Teacher Spotlight – Mary Taylor, Lower Elementary

Wed, 14 Jan 2015 16:31:00 GMT

While pregnant and waiting for a new life to come into this world, I, like most mothers- to-be, realized my life was going to be very different after the birth of my child and felt certain this new little being would bring much change.

The change started even before my son was born. A friend gave me a Montessori book to read while pregnant in the hopes that I might be interested in exploring Montessori education for my son. At the time, the most I knew of Montessori was that it was a day-care choice for some working parents…hardly what it really is! I read the book and wished that my own learning path had started with Montessori.

My journey started with reading a book and has blossomed. As my son grew older and neared school-age, I explored various pedagogies: public schools, private schools, Waldorf and Montessori. After doing thorough research on them all, I found myself coming back to Montessori full of resolve, and made the informed decision to enroll my son in Montessori school for primary and elementary.

While I was a stay-at-home parent after working many years in the corporate world of human resources, I also pursued service work by teaching Sunday school classes and found I really enjoyed working with children. At the same time as my son enjoyed his Montessori education and I planned my re-entry into the workforce, I found myself drawn to a career in education, exploring various programs until Montessori, with its focus on the whole child, resonated the most for me, too.

I was fortunate enough to find an Assistant position at MSLF, which allowed me to experience the Montessori learning environment to determine if becoming a Montessori educator was the path for me. I found myself in a beautifully-prepared Montessori environment within MSLF. This was an invaluable gift before I pursued formal Montessori training.

At that time, I was torn between Primary and Elementary training. After working as an Assistant in Elementary, I knew Elementary was the place for me; it allowed me to meet the children within the broadest range of ages, from 6 to 12, while aiding the children’s potential as they develop the faculties of their mind and imagination. I was also drawn to the interconnectedness of the lessons in Elementary and how the curriculum is so interrelated. Teaching a lesson in history might involve geography, biology and language and this appealed to me.

I began my Elementary Summer training in Milwaukee, commuting over three summers to and from Milwaukee. I found myself among a cohort of people from all over the world each with various Montessori and life experiences, yet all of us drawn to what Maria Montessori had written over a century earlier!

Since I have been in the classroom, it has been a gift every day to be with the students. As much as we teachers work to prepare our rooms and lessons, the students in return give so much back to us through the look of excitement in their eyes or changes in their facial expressions when they truly understand something they previously thought was hard, discovering for themselves that through efforts and persistence they can master hard things.

As I reflect on Montessori’s life, she too experienced so many hard things and much change in her lifetime: a female doctor in Italy, pioneer in education, World War I, exile from her home country, and World War II, to name a few of her life experiences. Yet through it all, she continued to believe in the potential of children and humanity. What drew me to Montessori was the deep belief in humanity and the vision of the potential of human beings, especially children.

I owe a debt of gratitude to my son who has indeed changed the course of my life in so many unexpected and welcomed ways. I am also grateful to MSLF as well as the many families over the years who have also believed in Montessori and this community. This quote drew me into Montessori and it still applies more than 60 years later:

“Times have changed, and science has made great progress, and so has our work; but our principles have only been confirmed, and along with them our conviction that mankind can hope for a solution to its problems, among which the most urgent are those of peace and unity, only by turning its attention and energies to the discovery of the child and to the development of the great potentialities of the human personality in the course of its formation.” (From the foreword to “The Discovery of the Child”, 1948)

Finally I owe a debt of gratitude to my friend who gave me the Montessori book, as well as to so many people who have supported me along the way, and finally to Maria Montessori for having the courage and perseverance to forge this path for us to follow in our love of humanity and children.

— Mary Taylor, January 2015

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School Open on Thursday, January 8th

Thu, 08 Jan 2015 02:29:00 GMT

Dear MSLF Community,

As you know, we can expect to continue to see fairly severe weather tomorrow and possibly for the rest of the week. Many schools will close, especially public schools, which must monitor the safety of students who walk to school or wait for buses. The Montessori School of Lake Forest will be open on Thursday, January 8th.

However, the forecasted conditions may pose danger not only of frostbite, but also of brittle tires and slick road surfaces and poor visibility due to wind and snowfall during the afternoon.

I urge you to decide independently whether or not you will come to school tomorrow. I know that some of you who live far away will not make the trip, and some of you whose workplaces will not close will need to bring your children to school. Some employees’ children will be home because their public schools will be closed. This means that some classrooms may be short staffed. But, barring unforeseen emergency, we will be open, and staffed to the best of our ability.

Best wishes to all of you as we learn to adapt to severe weather, and stay safe!

– Ann Jordahl

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The Montessori Times

Wed, 03 Dec 2014 14:16:00 GMT

Montessori Times PDF

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Final Friday Market on 11/14

Wed, 12 Nov 2014 16:33:00 GMT

Final Friday Market This Friday 11/14 featuring:

*The baked goods are made from wheat, eggs, pumpkins and beets — all products of the Farm!

Due to the cold weather, the Market will be located in the Rotunda.

We hope to see you!

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MSLF Book Club

Wed, 05 Nov 2014 16:35:00 GMT

Saturday, December 13 at 6:00 pm

Re-Imagined Vintage
36 E. Center Ave (in between Inovasi & Twigs Florist)
Lake Bluff

Register here .

What some of the MSLF parents and teachers who joined us for the past lectures had to say about the experience:

‘The facilitator is amazing! He believes that books are vertical and shares so many layers of the text – it expands the book and takes the discussion to a unique level of engagement.’

‘Participating in the discussion was enlightening because it allowed me to think at a level and in a way that my (current) day-to-day life doesn’t accommodate. Since the meeting I have thought often of its contents. Subsequently, I now recognize the need to carve out more time to think like that; it’s good for the mind…and the soul.’

‘Thanks again for this fantastic book group. I so thoroughly enjoyed the conversation and interpretation! Wow! I can’t stop thinking about it.’

About the Presenter

Michael Verde of Reading For Life leads literary discussions of life-changing books. His stimulating presentations draw people together around a common imaginative and social experience. Michael is a published author, professional speaker, and award-winning educator. He has Master degrees in Literary Studies (University of Iowa) and Theology (University of Durham, England).

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Thank You for Showing Your Spirit!

Mon, 27 Oct 2014 14:00:00 GMT

MSLF’s inaugural Spirit Week was a great success. Thanks to the community for showing your spirit and participating in all of the activities and events! Below are just a few photos from our Field Day last week, enjoy!

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Introducing the Montessori Times

Fri, 24 Oct 2014 19:15:00 GMT

Also available for Download .

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Matt’s Mile: A Success!

Tue, 07 Oct 2014 20:36:00 GMT

On October 3rd the The Blue House Cross Country Running Club participated in their first team event – Matt’s Mile and 5K in Prairie Crossing. The team would like to thank Coach Rashied for giving the team stretching and warm up tips (football style), and for stressing the importance of setting goals and tracking improvements with every run. Thanks also to team coaches Marianna Wildes, Kirstin Carruthers for all the support this year.

The Blue House Cross Country Team: Milana Henry, Trisha Patel, Michaela Abrams, Lily Michaud, Eleanor Michaud

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Elementary Takes a Trip to CLC to see Dr. Dolittle

Mon, 06 Oct 2014 14:20:00 GMT

On Friday, October 3rd the Elementary Division of MSLF attended the production of Dr. Dolittle at CLC.

Before attending the production, a committee; Aidan Ahern of Upper Elementary, Julian Padilla of LE1, and Lucas Chamberlin of LE2 organized a presentation at the main campus of MSLF with Trisha Patel. Trisha Patel is a student at the Blue House and is currently an actress in this production of Dr. Dolittle. The Elementary children enjoyed Trisha’s presentation and were thrilled to see her in the production. The photo taken of the boys was at the theater.

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U-Pick Pictures

Fri, 19 Sep 2014 17:58:00 GMT

On Wednesday September 17th, extended day and lower elementary students visited the Blue House for a farm tour and U-Pick. The adolescent community guided the children through their pumpkin patch and helped them to find the perfect pumpkin.

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Save-A-Pet Service Project

Mon, 15 Sep 2014 17:44:00 GMT

Last week, Dylan Rayburn and Tyler Mannelly gave classroom presentations about their efforts to help cats and dogs at Save-A-Pet. They even visited and gave presentations to the Toddler classrooms. Dylan and Tyler are very satisfied with all the contributions that have been made. The goods that have been deposited in their donation basket such as dog or cat food have helped them see how they can make a difference in their society.

These kinds of service projects help Elementary children learn to explore the world beyond the classroom. This is part of the work of social construction of the Second Plane. On behalf of the students, your support is truly appreciated! Thank you to everyone who has supported this cause!

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Tom Zengeler Named President of Board of Directors For MSLF

Wed, 10 Sep 2014 01:37:00 GMT

Tom Zengeler, President of Zengeler Cleaners, was reelected President of the Board of Directors for Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF). Zengeler has been a long-time supporter of the school and has served as a Director for several years. This will be his second term as President for the all-volunteer Board. Zengeler Cleaners is the Midwest’s largest and oldest cleaner, having served the northern Illinois area since 1857.

Zengeler recently welcomed the school’s parents to the 2014 – 2015 school year during MSLF’s annual Parents’ Night. He outlined exciting new activities for the year, including the announcement that the school’s very first mascot will be unveiled during its upcoming spirit week. Zengeler also introduced the school’s theme for the coming year, “The Driving Force,” detailing how faculty, staff and parents working together can become the driving force in the lives of their children.

In his remarks, Zengeler also challenged parents to become as involved as possible in the education of their children. Said Zengeler, “MSLF is fortunate to have so many parents who are driving forces – parents who volunteer their time and who fill so many important roles for the school. When you combine outstanding teachers and professional staff with parents who are actively involved in the education process, the results are simply amazing! And yes –every parent can be involved at our school, from working on committees and special events to serving on our volunteer Board of Directors.”

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Garden Club Veggie Delivery

Mon, 01 Sep 2014 17:52:00 GMT

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Welcome to the New School Year

Sun, 24 Aug 2014 19:09:00 GMT

Dear Montessori School of Lake Forest Families,

It has been a productive week here at MSLF, full of meetings and cleaning and planning. Classrooms are neat and bright and fully stocked, floors are glistening, gardens are thriving, egrets are hunting, the boardwalk is being installed, the first half of the roof is repaired, new employees are settling in, teachers and staff are refreshed and eager. All is well prepared to welcome you to the 2014-15 school year.

Although we each have our own reasons why we work at or attend the Montessori School of Lake Forest, we know we share a common value: We are all committed to providing the best Montessori education we can achieve. Whether we shape it as teachers, guide it as parents, or support it as administrators, we all work in service of the child.

In the United States, we worry a lot about the state of education because we understand how difficult it is to thrive in a democracy, and how difficult it is to keep pace with social and technological developments. We learn how American students and schools compare to international peers, and we know that traditional education has been struggling for decades. Over and over again, earnest researchers and practitioners puzzle out what children need to know and how to get them to know it. Not many have focused on how children learn. But since we know how children learn, we know what to teach them and when. That is the time-tested secret of Montessori education.

Montessori education has been working very well for more than 100 years. We don’t have to keep testing it; we don’t have to change it. Montessori students learn the languages of math and literature and social life so well that they grow up to invent the new technologies and systems that everyone else races to keep up with. We live in a world that is already strongly influenced by the inventions of Montessori alumni. There is no telling how the world will change as the Montessori alumni population grows.

While Montessori teachers and children continue to pursue education as organized by brain development, their peers in traditional schools are currently struggling with the Common Core Standards. These Standards are just the latest effort to codify what children need to know, and they entirely bypass the issue of how children learn. Consequently, teachers, parents, and children are struggling to make sense of the Standards, struggling to find ways to learn them.

If you wonder whether your child’s Montessori education will keep pace with the Common Core Standards, please click on the links below. You will see that you have chosen a complete pedagogy. It offers a comprehensive and brain-development appropriate curriculum via developmentally attuned teaching methods. It has been tested all over the world and is as relevant in 21st century Lake County as it was in early 20th century Rome. It is sought out by admissions counselors in the best high schools and colleges around the country. And on top of all this, it is a system of education that teaches children to be respectful and self-respecting, and to tie their own shoes! What more can you ask for?

So, welcome back to school for another year of the tried and true education of the future!

Best wishes and see you next week!

Ann Jordahl
Executive Director

CCSS ARTS and LITERACY

CCSS MATH and GEOMETRY

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Graduation Speech by Ariel Henry

Thu, 10 Jul 2014 15:50:00 GMT

“Here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. They’re not fond of rules. And they have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them. About the only thing you can’t do is ignore them. Because they change things. They push the human race forward. And while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.” ― Apple

This is what Montessori is to me – more importantly, this is what the Blue House means to me. We are different, every one of us; and, frankly, most of us are pretty strange. But Montessori cherishes that. They see something in us that, most of the time, we cannot even make out ourselves. They make us more independent and freethinking. They are allowing us to grow so we can change the world. They let us be who we are.

When the world holds up this big sign that says “Be yourself” we know that the world will not stand by it. We know we will be judged by society. But at the Blue House, society falls through the cracks in the squeaky wooden floors. We can be ourselves. We can meet our heart’s desires from interpretive dances in the halls to SNL skit reenactments, and I would like to thank my parents for giving me the opportunity to do so.

This school gives students a chance to find themselves. To improve. To fail and then rise again eight times stronger. To question authority. To gain responsibility. To listen then reply. To help others in need. To find their strengths but still remember their weaknesses. To test their limits. To leave their mark. This school, this crazy, one of a kind school, is where people can fly.

Montessori finds the misfits. “The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes.” And they see genius. Why? Because they know the “people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.”

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Summer Splash 2014

Mon, 21 Apr 2014 18:42:00 GMT

This summer all of our sessions focus on a child’s natural desire to explore…and explore…and explore some more. This exploration takes on different forms, of course, based on a child’s age. We have identified four areas of great interest across our student body — health, chemistry, nature and water — and have themed our sessions accordingly. We will “dig deep” into each of these areas of knowledge and learn in ways that fulfill our expansive curiosities.

The Toddler, Primary and Elementary programs offer age-appropriate activities for children looking to explore, be challenged and relax this summer. Individualized swim instruction, field trips, sports, arts, nature recreation and “special days” provide a well-rounded summer experience.

Register for Summer Splash 2014 Here

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Executive Director for the Day…Thomas Tobin

Fri, 21 Feb 2014 20:17:00 GMT

The Administrative Team at MSLF was privileged to have Mr. Thomas Tobin serve yesterday as the Executive Director for the Day. Thomas did a wonderful job shepherding children in from morning carpool and assisting Ms. Jordahl with decisions regarding school procedures and current hot topics. He was seen around the building throughout the day helping Mr. Kevin address classroom issues, and spent time with the Business and Marketing offices. Most importantly, he made himself available as a resource to the other children, who really enjoyed having a peer leader for the day. Thomas did a truly outstanding job. He was calm under pressure, had a smile for everyone, and spread a real sense of joy throughout the building. He sat down with us for a brief interview before he wrapped up his day as the head of school:

BW : Thomas, what is so special to you about MSLF?
Thomas : Easy…we get to do our own work, have fun, and we stay confident.

BW : What is good about being a student here?
Thomas : I enjoy all of the teachers here. You always know there is someone there to help you if you need it.

BW : Why do you think a family might want to come to MSLF?
Thomas : Montessori has our own way of doing things. This is a private school with great teachers and a great education.

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Summer Camp Enrollment

Wed, 05 Feb 2014 21:57:00 GMT

Although it’s cold and snowy today, we are frantically planning for another spectacular summer at MSLF! Enrollment forms for Summer Splash 2014 were mailed yesterday, so please keep your eyes open. MSLF is a fun and relaxing place to spend the summer, and we invite all of our friends to join us. Remember that if you are a full-year family, your child is automatically signed up for camp. Please contact Ellen Pavelich at 847-918-1000 x303 with any questions.

Please click here for the enrollment form.

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Winter Extra-Curricular Enrollment is Open

Thu, 05 Dec 2013 16:40:00 GMT

An enrollment form along with payment is due for all students (new and returning.)

Links to enrollment forms are below.

Art * Ballet * Chess * Dance * Guitar * Piano * Sports * Violin

Contact Lynn Dolister or Ellen Pavelich with questions.

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Celebrating Diwali

Wed, 13 Nov 2013 16:38:00 GMT

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Upper Elementary Travelogue, by Shelley Hooke

Wed, 06 Nov 2013 22:31:00 GMT

The week of October 21st, our Upper Elementary class participated in the Outdoor Essential Skills trip to Dodgeville, Wisconsin. I had the pleasure of attending as one of the parent chaperones. The trip was a great success, with the students participating in all sorts of outdoor activities, building individual self-esteem, as well as increasing our class’s ever-growing foundation of “community.” Below are the daily sentiments from my unique perspective as both a spectator and partial participator. You’ll notice several specific details are omitted…the next time you encounter an Upper El student, ask THEM for the full story; I know they’d love the opportunity to share their experience with you!

UE Trip, Day 1/Monday

Our bus trip to Dodgeville was perfect! As you know, the bus loading at MSLF went off without a hitch, and we departed promptly at 9am (wow!).

As planned, we made a pit stop for lunch at the Johnson Creek rest stop. The timing worked out well, and we welcomed the opportunity to stretch our legs.

We arrived at the retreat center, welcomed by “Mr. Bill,” Nicolas, and Anna (our familiar instructors from last year). After a very organized unloading of the bus, we waved goodbye to the bus driver and headed inside the building.

For the parents of returning students, it will be interesting to hear the comparative descriptions between last year’s building and this year’s. (My take: this facility is amazing, very nice with more amenities…like the difference between your freshman dorm and your senior housing in college). Be sure to ask your student all about it!

After a “second” lunch of burgers, potato wedges, chips, and…brownies, we headed for the hiking trail. What a wonderful afternoon.

Back at the retreat center, and after our dinner, we enjoyed stories by the fire, card games, handwork, reading, etc.

Similar to last year, everyone’s hanging out in the great room/living room. It’s nice to see so many different activities taking place.

UE Trip, Day 2/Tuesday

We’ve just wrapped up our day, lights-out was about 30 minutes ago…so I better make this short.

Today we participated in two activities: a challenge course and a nature-hike. We were split into 2 groups, to make the activities a bit more manageable; with the whole class meeting together at midday for a fireside sack lunch. I know your kids can’t wait to tell you all about the activities.

After dinner and some free time, we met around the campfire again (different location than at lunch). As you might expect, we enjoyed discussing our day’s events, sang songs (accompanied by a ukulele!), listened to story time (excerpt from The Chronicles of Narnia), and yes… s’mores!

We’ve had a fantastic day, and we’re all ready to get some good rest in preparation for tomorrow. Lights out for tonight.

UE Trip, Day 3/Wednesday

Another wonderful, inspiring, awesome… day!

Since we were unable to do the evening camp out, our instructors improvised, coming up with the next best thing, an “afternoon camp out.”

Before heading out, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast and some indoor free time. We were also treated to a “handwork” demonstration. I’m not going to provide any details, just wait until you see (and hear) all about it.

We finished up, cleaned up, and layered up to head outside for the day. A few outdoor games, then we were off to the south/southeast hiking trails! After splitting up into three groups, we had lunch, fireside, and learned how to camp “without leaving a trace.” Wow! It was so cool, I know you’ll hear about this experience!

On our hike back to the retreat center, we stopped by a large rock/cliff which overlooked the valley. It was beautiful!

Here’s our official group photo and the end of the hike before heading back:

We enjoyed dinner and an evening of free time. Most are packed and ready to head home; our morning schedule is all set, and we plan to
depart at 9am.

We’re all already looking forward to next year!!!

We adults (Mrs. Pakkala, Mr. McDaniel, Mr. Burns, the three instructors, and I) have enjoyed the week and seeing these students in action. They’ve all represented MSLF – and your family – very well! Thanks again for letting me share this experience with your sons & daughters!

See you soon,
Shelley

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Walking Our Montessori Talk

Fri, 25 Oct 2013 19:38:00 GMT

We have gathered tonight in support of our children’s Montessori education. And make no mistake, no matter how old our children are, we older MSLF parents continue to be guided by Montessori principles as we nurture our young adults.

What do we mean when we claim to offer good Montessori education? Lots of schools make this claim, so how does one assess quality? MSLF offers several proofs of its excellence. First, within the Montessori teaching community, MSLF is considered a good place to work. This is only in part due to its competitive salaries, and only in part due to the beauty of the campuses and the full range of services. MSLF attracts excellent practitioners because it offers them intellectual freedom. This intellectual freedom is the freedom to do one’s best work, to collaborate with colleagues, to disagree with colleagues, to think hard about Montessori philosophy and how best to apply it, how best to communicate about it. This school offers teachers something rare: the opportunity to do real Montessori, not just to talk about it.

Second, perhaps you have heard me describe how MSLF has become a community of people who think for themselves. We come together because we share goals and values, not because we all think alike. We do agree that the surest path to excellence at all ages is to combine good training, high standards, strong work ethic, perseverance, freedom to collaborate, agreeing to disagree. MSLF provides this path to excellence for all members of its community, young and old.

Our children are why it matters so much what kind of a community MSLF is. If we agree that we aim to provide the best Montessori education we can, then we know that our true goal is to interpret and apply the most basic of Montessori principles at all times. We may applaud our results as we witness them in our incredible alumni. But in order to “produce” such wonderful results, we here must concern ourselves first and foremost with the process of getting there. That process is Montessori education.

Montessori education is really an elegantly simple and efficient process. It is basically founded on one profound principle, a message that each child sends to the adult world. It took a genius to hear this call, and since she heard it, we now can hear it and heed it, too. The child’s eternal call to us is “help me to do it myself.”

Now, babies and toddlers offer many great examples of this desire to “do it myself” including their propensity to push or hit us if we get in their way! And their developmental achievements result from pretty obvious hard work. Once they master the very difficult art of walking, they are welcomed into our Toddler rooms, where they are asked to begin to grapple with self-care and awareness of others. Not only are they presented with the challenge of learning to use the toilet, but they are also guided to learn how to dress and undress, to prepare food, to eat in community, to wait their turn. This is not only cute. It is also profoundly moving to witness the earnest development of skills and self-respect in the young child who masters these tasks and who thus begins to master their self and their passions.

You notice that I use the word master, and that is exactly what I mean. Our Toddlers don’t just sort of do these tasks—they do them fully, and they are proud of doing them. They own their work, they own the pride of their accomplishments.

For instance, it takes the average Toddler student weeks if not months to master putting on their own shoe. This ultimate achievement may be accompanied by grunts, tears, deep focus, shrieks, giving up, trying again, lost chances to go out to play, perseverance, success—all of which, outside the classroom, you and I don’t see. We see the shoe on the foot, probably the “wrong” foot. We tend not to think of how it got there.

So maybe it’s easy for us to unintentionally obviate that achievement—and put the shoe on the child’s foot for them. Maybe we are in a hurry, or we are embarrassed about the left shoe going on the right foot, or perhaps we feel badly about leaving the child for long school day. And if this is the case, since we didn’t witness the hard work that went into the achievement, it’s pretty easy for us to put our child’s shoes on for them. And if they’re too old for shoes, it might be something else. Sound familiar?

There are all kinds of ways we can infantilize our children, by serving them too much, or controlling them too much. And once we start, when will we stop? We can do a child’s shoes or coat for them. We can carry their backpack. We can finish their sentences. We can say “we” instead of I. We can do their Blue House assignments for them, fight their Blue House battles for them. We imagine we can feel their pain, engineer their success.

Except that we really can’t. Not if our method is to respond to their call to us, “help me to do it myself.” And not if our ultimate goal is that our child becomes an adult who can “do it myself.” For you and I know that this is what it takes to be a problem solver in adulthood. And if someone is going to be a problem solver, then they have to be a problem solver. When do you start being a problem solver? Here at MSLF, we start from the beginning, by modeling problem solving for children. And one of the best ways to model problem solving is to allow others to solve their problems. With appropriate tools and support and time, we allow children to face and solve their problems.

So please join your children’s teachers and Maria Montessori. In the service of your child of any age, lay aside impatience or embarrassment or your own personal fulfillment. Do not kneel to serve your shoeless child. Do not weaken your 9-year-old by carrying their backpack. Do not allow yourself to become your 13-year-old’s scapegoat or whipping post. Rather, give your child a kiss, tell them what you expect of them and that you love them, say goodbye, and return when you said you would. The teachers and your child will take over from there. And you can walk away with your head held high, knowing that you are supporting your child’s education fully, not just with your checkbook and your words, but with your actions, too.

This year the faculty and staff and I have agreed that we will focus on raising the bar for ourselves so that we are completely confident that we “walk our Montessori talk” to the best of our ability. We invite you to join us, and we offer you our full support. We know how hard it is to be a Montessori parent.

I speak to you from the heart about the challenges and the possibilities that result, from walking this talk. There are people here who teach your children now, who once taught mine. They helped me walk away while I was dying with embarrassment at the timidity of one daughter. They helped me support a tiny daughter as she learned to stand up to a big tormentor. They said “we’ll take it from here” when I deposited a kicking, screaming, nearly naked four-year-old at their feet. Always they said, “She’ll be fine” and always, she was. Each time, the challenge was met, the child settled down, I settled down, the children became excellent students, family relations thrived.

While it was not easy to go through these experiences, I was not alone. The teachers helped me in the hallways and over the telephone, and I soon saw that despite my emotion, the problems weren’t mine. They were my children’s problems. And my children learned to meet their challenges, with the support and limits offered by their teachers.

My children are not special. They are just what we here at MSLF have learned to call “Montessori normal,” which is to say, they are problem solvers who know their limits, and know how to go after what they want. This is true of every one of your children, too.

So, fellow members of this community of people of all ages who think for themselves: We are focusing together this year on walking our Montessori talk. In big ways and small, let us take the necessary steps to answer the child’s call to “help me do it myself.” Let’s make sure that each of our children is the boss of their own shoes, and their own life, and that we set them an excellent example of just how that is done!

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Healthy Child, Healthy School

Thu, 17 Oct 2013 21:29:00 GMT

Healthy Child, Healthy School is a new committee to MSLF, supported by the ideas of Maria Montessori who said “The land is where the are roots are. The children must be taught to feel and live in harmony with the earth.” In keeping with that spirit the goal of the committee is to increase knowledge of healthy choices that encompass the whole child including food, physical activity, and nature. There have been four wonderful activities that have already started:

1) Garden Club – the elementary classes have been meeting once a week to revitalize the large raised beds and have just learned about covering crops for the winter.

2) Events – Smoothies at the year-end picnic or fresh apple juice at the Fall Fest you will continue to see more healthy recipes at the various school events.

3) Tower Garden – Primary 2/Mrs. Stompanato’s class is hosting a tower garden in her classroom…this is a unique opportunity to leverage cutting edge technology that decreases water needed to grow fruits and vegetables.

4) Produce of the Month – A Fruit/Veggie of the Month program has kicked off in October; each month the classrooms will receive a small bag filled with selected produce and some handouts with information and recipes (the selected produce will be highlighted in the lunch menu).

Please enjoy the pictures from the garden club and this great egg substitute recipe. We look forward to sharing more with you throughout the year. If you have any questions please reach out to Eric Cooper, Megan Cooper, Tamara Mannelly, Kristyn Moore, Monica Rayburn, or Kelly Rynes.

Garden before & after:

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So Many Pumpkins!

Fri, 04 Oct 2013 15:13:00 GMT

Additionally, they will host a ‘u-pick’ event at the Blue House on October 8 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm…everyone is welcome!

Meet the students at the pumpkin patch at the end of the Yellow Farmhouse parking lot. Proceeds of the pumpkin sale will go to the Adolescent Program for student projects and supplies. Come get your locally-grown (and organic) pumpkins!

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Blue House Overnight

Fri, 13 Sep 2013 19:49:00 GMT

On September 5th the Adolescent Program held its first ever overnight. The overall experience was gratifying. On Thursday afternoon the Blue House and Learning Farm were humming with activities. Apples from our backyard were pressed into cider which was enjoyed at dinner and breakfast. Honey, for use all year, was extracted from our hives. The chickens had a temporary pen built next to the house, where they enjoyed fresh greens, that we consider unwanted weeds. (A win-win situation!) Potatoes, green beans, yellow peppers, swiss chard, brocolli and onions were harvested for dinner and breakfast. Wood was split for the dinner’s cook fire. Kindling was gathered, a fire pit built.

After much hard work and a satisfying dinner, we were gathered around the bonfire and enjoyed a discussion of energy transfer and a bonfire song. We were surprised and interupted by an uninvited great horned owl who landed for a spell in the tree canopy in the back yard!

The students worked beautifully together. Having so few bathrooms with so many people was frustrating, yet despite the long waits we all managed to take care of our needs.

On behalf of the whole MSLF Adolescent Faculty, thank you for sharing your precious family time with the school.

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A Successful Start

Wed, 11 Sep 2013 14:47:00 GMT

Throughout their admissions process, Montessori School of Lake Forest teachers and staff members value every interaction with prospective students and their families–ensuring each child’s successful transition into a new learning environment.

When it comes to finding a school that is a good fit for your child, the process can feel daunting. After all, a child’s education is one of the most important aspects of his or her life, and one that shapes thoughts, actions, and future goals. Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF) uses a detailed admission process to ensure the best fit for prospective students. Naturally, the staff at MSLF approaches the admission process the same way they approach each child’s education: with careful thought, extensive communication, and a desire to meet each student’s needs in the best way possible.

“The intent of our admission process is not to decide if students are good enough for us,” explains MSLF Executive Director Ann Jordahl. “It’s quite the opposite; it’s to decide if we can serve a child and his or her family.” One of the first goals of the admission process is to simply inform families about Montessori education and how MSLF, specifically, carries out this educational philosophy. Parents who are interested in learning more about MSLF may attend admission open houses or schedule a private tour of the school. In the subsequent days or weeks, parents are welcome to observe a classroom, schedule a time for their child to meet and interact with a teacher, and arrange follow-up meetings to converse with teachers or administrators.

The overall mission of the admission process, of course, is to ensure that MSLF will be an engaging and beneficial learning environment for any given prospective student. “Montessori can serve just about every child,” Ann explains. “What we’re looking to do is to make absolutely sure that the child would be comfortable with us.” In order to ensure a child’s comfort and, consequently, success at the school, teachers look for two important qualities in prospective students: the characteristic of responsibility and a strong sense of respect for oneself, others, and the environment. “Those are hallmark terms in Montessori and our goal is to foster those qualities in each child,” Ann says. “We work on it in very simple ways with the young children, and as they grow older, it becomes more and more complex.”

With rolling admission, MSLF is able to admit new students anytime during the school year. Although it’s more difficult for elementary-age and older children to join and adjust during the middle of the school year, it’s entirely possible. For the youngest children, however, the rolling admission policy is quite beneficial. Because children under the age of 6 progress very quickly through developmental stages, they may be ready to join a class at any point during the school year. A toddler, for instance, may not be ready for school in the fall, but may show indications of readiness for school a few weeks later. At MSLF, that child’s parents may enroll him or her mid-year and capitalize on that readiness, rather than wait for the next school year.

MSLF uses a “phase-in” method to help new students make the transition to their new classrooms. Rather than expecting a young child to immediately acclimate to a new environment, the staff at MSLF introduces the child to his or her new setting gradually. First, the child meets and speaks one-on-one to his or her new teacher. Then, on the first official day, the child stays for a brief visit in the classroom, and may interact with the other children and participate in a lesson. The second day involves a longer stay, and by the third day, the child may stay the entire day. Of course, the process is different for each child, and some need more visits to make the transition; MSLF teachers are able to accommodate each student, depending on his or her progress. “We all need to orient—to know where we are and what we’re doing—and children typically need more time to do that,” Ann explains.

Because the whole well-being of the child is important to MSLF staff members and teachers, they make an effort to collaborate with parents on strengthening the children’s curiosity, intellect, and sense of responsibility. Throughout the school year, MSLF offers various parent-education opportunities, as well as two formal parent-teacher conferences. Parents are always welcome to schedule additional meetings with their child’s teacher, as communication is considered a key contributor to each child’s growth and development. “It’s our job to be as transparent as possible,” Ann explains. “We want families to choose Montessori education and MSLF because they understand our philosophy and value it.” MSLF’s staff members, parents, and students all value one another and their common goal of excellent Montessori education for each child. This mutual sense of respect allows the children to flourish in their education—and that’s when true success is achieved.

Montessori School of Lake Forest will host fall open houses on September 18, October 2 and 23, and November 6, for prospective students and their families. The open houses begin at 9:30 a.m. at the school’s main campus, located at 13700 W. Laurel Drive in Lake Forest. To sign up for an open house or to schedule a private tour, call 847-918-1000.
-Jenna Schubert

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MSLF Names New Executive Director

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 10:34:00 GMT

“The Board of Directors is delighted that Ann Jordahl has accepted the position of Executive Director of Montessori School of Lake Forest,” noted Thomas J. (Tom) Zengeler, President of the school’s Board. “Her selection was the result of a thorough and thoughtful search. As we moved forward in the process, it was clear the school had thrived under Ann’s leadership. We are fortunate to have a professional already on staff with such a deep appreciation for our goals and philosophy. Ann is the right Executive Director to lead our school to even greater heights in the future.”

Ms. Jordahl’s appointment was announced to parents of students in a recent letter. She was selected by a unanimous vote of the Board of Directors at the regular Board meeting on May 16, 2013. The role of the Executive Director at the school is as follows.

• Applies Montessori philosophy to its highest standard and staffs the school accordingly, attracting well-qualified faculty and retaining them;

• Builds MSLF’s community to foster the Montessori ideal of “following the child;” and,

• Is accessible and responsive to all parties – faculty, parents, students and alumni – and in particular ensures that parents are kept informed about MSLF’s policies, programs and the progress of the children.

Ms. Jordahl thanked the Board for the opportunity to become the Executive Director after serving one year as Interim Executive Director. “The Montessori educational experience is truly an exceptional opportunity for those who believe in a high quality, individualized approach to teaching,” she said. “Montessori School of Lake Forest has a rich heritage of excellence, a tradition I pledge to continue during my time as Executive Director.”

For more information about her appointment as Executive Director at the Montessori School of Lake Forest, please contact Thomas J. Zengeler, ( tzengeler@sbcglobal.net ) President, Board of Directors.

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Joy at School, by Mia Stompanato

Thu, 30 May 2013 11:35:00 GMT

As I watch her interact with her non-Montessori friends, I see a difference in the way she solves problems. I appreciate the way she listens and I appreciate the way she interacts with others. I always knew that her Montessori experience has nourished her and helped her to blossom.

My husband and I have decided to continue her Montessori education at MSLF’s Blue House. Yesterday, she was invited to spend a day visiting. When I went to pick her up, I witnessed the most awe inspiring event.

About 20 adolescents were holding onto ribbons and circling a pole weaving over and under each other’s ribbons. I watched for a few minutes, not amazed by the activity itself, but by the look of utter joy on these twelve, thirteen and fourteen year old’s faces. Every few seconds, I would catch a glimpse of Gianna and think how lucky we are that we found Montessori (or Montessori found us).

I know my own recollection of Middle School, and I’ve heard plenty of stories from my friends that send their children to the local Middle School. Images of joyful children ringing in a birthday by prancing around a May pole do not come to mind.

I will always cherish the 5 minutes I spent waiting in the Adolescent carpool line and will reflect on the happy faces (my child’s being one of them) experiencing simple childhood bliss. I wish every child, every Adolescent, could feel the joy that those children experienced on that Tuesday afternoon on the Blue House front lawn.

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Friday Markets and Blue House Blog

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 09:30:00 GMT

From the Adolescent Program:

Our Friday Markets are starting up again! Our first market day will be Friday, April 26, and we will be selling Spinach mix, Asian mix, and lettuce mix. All of our produce is grown in our hoophouse in Prairie Crossing. This spring we will also be selling “Bluehouse Cinnarolz”, homemade cinnamon bread made with the winter wheat we harvested. The farm students bake the bread in our kitchen. We will sell wheat grass as well. Later on this spring, we will have tomatoes.

You can keep up with our market and other Blue House news by visiting our blog, http://mslfap.blogspot.com

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An Exciting New Chapter

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 10:59:00 GMT

This article first appeared in the February 2013 issue of Forest & Bluff

It only takes a few minutes of conversation with Ann Jordahl to understand her deep devotion to the students, teachers, and families she works with on a daily basis.

As the recently appointed Interim Executive Director for the Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF), Ann’s sense of dedication and direction is hard to find elsewhere. Aside from her evident passion for the school and its goals, Ann also brings a wealth of experience to her new position. “I came to the school 18 years ago, as a mother,” she says. She joined the school’s board, but, inspired by her children’s Montessori education, she decided to train as a Montessori teacher, and began teaching at the toddler level 16 years ago. The school then asked if she would be interested in helping build the MSLF Adolescent Program, and Ann agreed, working in that program for several years before becoming the Adolescent Program Director. Early in the summer of 2012, she stepped into the role of Acting Executive Director for the school, which led to her current role as Interim Executive Director. The announcement of Ann’s new role has been met with enthusiasm from MSLF faculty, administrators, and families, who have come to know her well.

As Interim Executive Director, Ann hopes to continue the Montessori tradition of creating a safe environment where children can develop independence, learn respect for self and others, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning. MSLF offers students and their families the opportunity to become part of a community within a community. “Many people are looking for community in their lives. I think that community is a chance to work and think together,” Ann explains. “We may not always see eyeto- eye, but if we can be authentic, with the ultimate goal of hearing and respecting one another, then we are creating a living community which has room for all kinds of people, educates children well, and provides children with models of how to live responsibly.”

In an effort to foster community, Ann, along with the MSLF faculty and administrators, is working to build the school’s parent education program, which gives parents the opportunity to deeply understand their child’s dayto- day classroom experiences. “Parents want to understand what their children are experiencing, how to support that at home, and how to be part of their child’s school life,” Ann explains. Parent education includes parent-child work days (when parents visit the classrooms) and parent meetings on topics like standardized testing, transitioning into and out of the Elementary Program, and seasonal topics, such as a “Family Celebrations” meeting before the holidays.

The parent education program seeks to inform and empower a parent to foster their child’s learning experience. One of the works—or lessons—for young children is to follow lengthy, step-by-step instructions for shoe polishing.

Ann remembers one mother, in particular, who was confused as to why the teacher would give a young child such a task. “When she did the many steps of the lesson herself, it hit her; she finally understood what her son was learning. She saw that he was learning a great deal about eye-hand coordination, concentration, logic, and memory,” Ann explains. “Then she began to understand, in a new way, when the teacher said that a work like this prepares a child for reading or math.”

In order to make MSLF a secure and fulfilling community for the children, Ann is also working to uphold Montessori standards in the areas of homework and bullying. MSLF does not assign homework to the younger children; in the Adolescent Program, students are assigned a lot of academic work that they have time to work on during the school day and must sometimes finish at home. This creates a sense of accountability for the older students and prepares them for high school. When it comes to bullying, MSLF has a holistic and preventative approach. “Bullying can exist anywhere, and people need a combination of grace, courtesy, and personal power to prevent bullying,” Ann says. “Those are taught from the very beginning of a Montessori education. I think it’s effective because the teachers and parents work on it, and it’s modeled and enacted in every single area.”

As the MSLF staff continues to uphold the school’s standards for excellence in education, they are excited about this new chapter for MSLF, in which Ann’s leadership is greatly valued. With her multifaceted background of Montessori parent, board member, teacher, and program director, she brings a thorough knowledge to her position. That knowledge, coupled with her love for MSLF’s work, will shape a bright future for the school’s families and students.

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Opening Doors: Chicago Area Montessori High School

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 18:14:00 GMT

“The concept is a school without walls,” says Brian Abrams, shown with his wife Patty, about the new Montessori high school scheduled to open in 2014.

Brian Abram’s daughter was interested in dissection. She conducted research, wrote a paper and presented it to the teacher. Her school, Montessori School of Lake Forest (MSLF), then ordered in a pig for her to dissect.

Spending an entire day, she took pictures of the process in order to put together a manual on how to dissect for future students. She ended her project with a presentation to her class.

“There’s this interdisciplinary nature of the class,” said Abrams, Lake Bluff resident and former president of the board, at MSLF about Montessori teaching. “You may not have a separate reading, math and science class; instead, you may be doing all three simultaneously.”

If this is what a sixth-grade Montessori student is capable of doing, North Shore educators wondered, what could be possible at the high-school level? That thought essentially led to the creation of Beacon Academy, a Montessori International Baccalaureate high school, set to open in Evanston in the fall of 2014.
The genesis of it was a “flippant comment” made by Abram’s wife, Patty, which led to the gathering of the heads of six Montessori grade schools from Chicago to the North Shore.

Two years ago, they conducted a survey to gauge the interest of the community. Out of 1,300 families, over 900 responded, and 750 were interested or very interested.

Montessori at the high school level is not a totally new concept. The first was Montessori High School at University circle in Cleveland, and Beacon will be the third high school in the world to use its principles as a starting point. David Kahn, Executive Director of NAMTA (North American Montessori Teachers Association), who started the Cleveland school, is also the consultant for Beacon – which will be the first Montessori high school in the Chicago area. It will be private and charge tuition.

Montessori teaching will be fused with International Baccalaureate, which is moralistic in approach and has s significant service component. Class schedule will be more collegiate: instead of several 50-minute class periods, a student may only have three 90-minute classes a day. Teachers will be “high caliber and experts in their field,” according to Beacon headmaster Jeff Bell. There will be a lot of flexibility in offerings, classes will be project based, and students can expect to get off the campus often.

“The concept is a school without walls,” said Abrams. “The city would be the campus, not just the physical structure itself.”

The campus is not yet determined, and will be in a leased space for the first few years, but the location will be in Evanston. As that is just a short train ride into the city, students will have museums, cultural institutions, medical facilities and business at their fingertips. Bell explained that he wants the students to learn “street smarts” in the sense that they will be able to masterfully navigate the city and utilize its offerings.

“High school-age students are capable of so much more than what is currently offered within the confines of high school schedules and buildings,” said Lynn Jessen, co-founder of Forest Bluff School and mother of a MHS-University Circle graduate.

Some of today’s best inventors were Montessori students. The duo who started Google, Sergey Brin and Larry Page, credit Montessori learning as a factor to their success. Other famous Montessori students are Will Wright, creator of “The Sims,” Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon.com, and Prince William and Harry in England.

Although the school may be initially popular with those coming from a Montessori background, Bell thinks public school students can have an easy transition into the system, as long as they are curious to learn and eager to explore.

“If you’re sending your kids to Montessori schools, you’re doing a good thing,” said Bell. “They are always prepared, successful, interested in learning for the sake of learning, and always bring talent to the table that you’d never expect.”

The admissions process is set to start in fall of 2013 and will only be open to ninth and tenth graders until further notice. Updated information can be found at www.beaconacademyhs.org . Start-up costs for the campus are about $2.1 million, and they will be funded through individual philanthropy.

“I hope this becomes a springboard for many other Montessori high schools,” said Abrams.

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Chicago-based Montessori High School to Open

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 17:14:00 GMT

We hope you enjoy what you discover about Beacon Academy, which will be a high school where all the students love to learn and want to go to school every day, just as the younger children and adolescents do now. Beacon has recently hired Jeff Bell as Principal, and we will keep you informed of the school’s ongoing progress. If you have immediate questions, please feel free to call MSLF’s office.

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MSLF Certified by the National Wildlife Federation

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 11:17:00 GMT

In order to become certified, a property must provide the four basic elements that all wildlife need: food, water, cover and places to raise young. In addition to providing for wildlife, certified habitats conserve our natural resources by reducing or eliminating the need for fertilizers, pesticides, and/or irrigation water, which ultimately protects the air, soil and water throughout our communities.

David Mizejewski, NWF Naturalist commented, “It’s easy to feel that there is no hope for wildlife in our modern world of smog, traffic and asphalt. But there is hope. Each of us can make our own piece of the Earth a healthy, green space that helps restore the ecological balance.” MSLF is happy to provide wildlife with greater incentive to call our piece of the Earth home!

The planning and hard work of many individuals over many years has resulted in MSLF’s beautiful and special “backyard.” Too many people have contributed their minds, time and labor to mention them all here. However, a special call-out to Lissa Hektor (former MSLF Executive Director) is appropriate. Her long-term vision for this space and her tireless work towards its development will not be forgotten. Thanks, too, to Katherine Ritter (alumnae parent and board member), for her time and expertise, and for managing the process of this certification.

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MSLF’s Focus on Waste Reduction

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 11:21:00 GMT

We are grateful for the myriad resources available to us here at MSLF. Related to that gratitude is a respect for these resources and the benefits they bring to students, faculty and staff. It is important to us to use to use them prudently and to eliminate waste where possible.

We kindly ask for your assistance in reducing food waste related to our lunch program. Each day we report to our caterer how many children will be eating. This number then determines how much food comes our way each day. Due to food-safety processes and regulations, we are not able to save leftovers. This means that uneaten food is thrown away and goes to waste.

So, we need your help in please reporting your child’s absence by 9am. Please call Lynn at the front desk or communicate with your child’s teacher as soon as you know he or she will not be at school. This will help us greatly, as we let our lunch service know how much food to provide on any given day. Thank you for your support!

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Primary 2 Completes Heartwarming Service Project

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 21:54:00 GMT

December 6, 2012 – Consistent with Montessori philosophy’s focus on caring for one’s environment (including the people in it), students at MSLF are regularly faced with opportunities to help others in need. Sometimes the individual in need is a younger child in the classroom or a peer on the playground. This time of year, Mia Stompanato’s Primary classroom chose to assist a 4-year old foster child named Zamequa.

The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) shares holiday wish lists of children enrolled in the Cook County Foster Care program. Mrs. Stompanato’s class has participated in this philanthropy in years past, and this year the class shopped for Zamequa, whose Big Wish is a new bicycle.

Not only does this project present an opportunity for children to learn how to help others in a hands-on way, but it also presents important lessons related to currency and mathematics. Counting the money was a wonderful supplement to the “bank game,” a Montessori teaching material in which students use the units of tens, hundreds and thousands. The final tally of money collected was:

72 pennies
30 nickels
37 dimes
52 quarters
54 dollars
9 fives
2 tens
6 twenties

Equaling:
$257.92

Thank you to all of the children, parents, teachers and grandparents who have contributed to the collection for Zamequa’s bicycle. Because of the community’s generosity, the class used extra funds to purchase gift cards to make additional children’s holidays a little brighter, as well.

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MSLF Elementary Students Make Significant Donation to UNICEF

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 16:21:00 GMT

November 20, 2012 – One of the many ways that MSLF students focus on helping others is through the Elementary Division’s traditional Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF project. Students from both Miss Jasinski’s and Mrs. Taylor’s Lower Elementary classrooms participated and raised an impressive $621.16.

This activity has been popular for several years now, and it provides children with the opportunity to learn about others in need, as well as how to organize and work together.

Following the collection of money, math skills were used in counting the returns. A “going-out” was then planned to the bank to transfer the cash into a check. The group is grateful to Mrs. Jory Cathlina and Mrs. Nancy Zelinske for chaperoning this bank trip. Students gain much more from experiences in which they are directly involved, and the UNICEF committee saw this project from start to finish. The following note exudes their sense of reward and excitement at the project’s completion last week.

“Dear Children and Parents,
Thank you for collecting all of the money! The total was $621.16.
That is a lot of money and we hope that the UNICEF children are very happy.
Sincerely,
The UNICEF committee”

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LE1 Fundraiser

Fri, 11 May 2012 15:19:00 GMT

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Lake Forester Article, May 3, 2012

Fri, 11 May 2012 10:13:00 GMT

Once again, the valuable lessons and general delight associated with MSLF’s Friday Organic Market have been recognized by the local media. A nice story ran last Thursday, following the reporter’s visit to the market the week prior. If you are a subscriber of the Lake Forester, the story was on page 19. If not, please use the link below. “Thank you” to our Adolescent Program students for representing our school so well!

http://lakeforest.suntimes.com/news/12128538-418/lf-montessori-farmers-market-provides-lessons-for-students.html

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Friday Organic Market Returns!

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 11:34:00 GMT

MSLF’s Organic Market returns tomorrow, April 6th, to the main campus at both carpool times, noon and 3 p.m. Parents and students are encouraged to shop the market! Students of the Adolescent Program will showcase and sell the results of their work on the farm. Guided by a farmer from the Prairie Crossing Learning Farm, they do everything from deciding what crops to plant to harvesting them.

This week Asian and Lettuce Mix will be featured, along with MSLF Adolescent program merchandise, including metal water bottles, bumper stickers, and mugs. Thanks for your support!

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Help Improve Our Community

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 11:53:00 GMT

With every candle we sell, we are getting closer and closer to creating a better learning environment for the students and future students of the Adolescent Program.

Date – Tuesday, March 20
Time – 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Place – MSLF main campus (by the service entrance)

Thank you so much,
Courtney Liptay, Rachel George and Ela Boddicker, the New Floors project term group.

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Thank You, from the Adolescent Program

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 13:13:00 GMT

Andres Reneau, Brandt Dudziak, and Bryan King helped run activities at the Carnival.

Dear MSLF community,
The Adolescent Program thanks all who attended the Halloween Carnival on Wednesday the 26th. With your participation we raised over $800 that will go to the improvement of the Adolescent Program!

Thanks again,
Courtney Liptay and Rachel George on behalf of the MSLF Adolescent Program

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Food Pantries Benefit from Leftover Crops, MSLF helps

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:09:00 GMT

More pictures are featured at Patch

Among the fields of already harvested kale and tomatoes, volunteers picked any leftovers that didn’t make the initial cut. This year they have gleaned 1,200 pounds of food for two local food pantries and a free farmers market.

Nearly three dozen volunteers have worked the fields of the Learning Farm and Sandhill Organics at Prairie Crossing.

On a recent day, three students from the nearby Montessori School of Lake Forest Adolescent Program combed the fields for kale left behind.

“Because of us, someone gets to eat a bit healthier food today,” said 14-year-old Sean Cullen of Gurnee.

The students and other volunteers washed and packed 100 pounds of kale and green tomatoes. This load is going to the free farmers market organized by Trinity AME Church and Manna Garden Initiative.

“It’s only a drop in the bucket,” said Roland Kuhl, who began the gleaning project with help from the Prairie Crossing Learning Farm. “But, it’s something and we know we’re making a difference.”

Kuhl said the fresh produce will go quickly and be distributed entirely within a few hours. Other days the loads are taken to the pantries.

90% of fresh produce at Avon Township’s Food Pantry is from the Prairie Crossing Learning Farm.

The Christian Outreach of Lutherans Food Pantry (COOL) in Waukegan also depends heavily on the gleaned goods.

“We really are so grateful for it,” said COOL Executive Director Diane Thackston. “When you’re on a limited budget you don’t usually spend money on produce. It’s unfortunate it costs more to eat healthy but it is such a treat to get the crops when we do.”

While this year’s crop was down from previous years due to the weather, the volunteers have been able to glean more than three tons of food for local pantries since the project began three years ago.

Gleaning is a Growing Project

The Gleaning project is an extension of Kuhl’s Ten Thousand Gardens, an initiative to help needy families eat and live healthier, and change their lifestyles from depending on processed foods.

Kuhl, the pastor of the North Suburban Mennonite Church in Libertyville wanted to encourage backyard gardeners to share excess produce with local food pantries. He turned to the Prairie Crossing Learning Farm for additional help.

“There is always a lot of produce left in the fields after it is harvested. It’s not worth it for the farmers to get the crops because maybe it is blemished or didn’t grow evenly, but it is still very edible,” explained Eric Carlberg, farm manager at Prairie Crossing Learning Farm.

Before getting into farming, Carlberg worked at a homeless shelter and said he struggled with ways to help people meet their basic needs. He wanted to help people become more self-sufficient.

Now, along with donating excess crops that is gleaned, each week farmers donate leftovers from the Prairie Crossing Farmers Market. In the spring they also distributed 4,500 seedlings, 75 pounds of seed potatoes and 286 seed packets.

Kuhl encourages everyone to help local pantries, even if they only have minimal produce or seedling to donate. “We’re just trying to get the idea across for people to start thinking about their neighbors,” he said. “It’s the right thing to do, and while this area is very wealthy we still have a high poverty rate.”

Kuhl said his goal is to get more farmers involved and more volunteers to glean and distribute the food.

To find out more about Ten Thousand Gardens , visit their website.

To learn about how to help with the gleaning initiative at Prairie Crossing Learning Farm , contact Erin Cummisford at erincummisford@prairiecrossing.org.

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Hektor Grove

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 18:13:00 GMT

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Upper Elementary Students Receive Pentel Awards

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 10:37:00 GMT

Last fall several of our Upper Elementary children created artwork to submit to Pentel’s 41st International Children’s Art Exhibition. More than 200,000 creations were sent to Japan from around the world. About 1,000 entries were received from the United States which won 122 awards. Recently, we were notified that two of our students’ entries have been selected from the U.S. Katie Bennett received a bronze award for her “Skiing on Snowy Hills” and Hailey Swisher’s “Morning in the Mountains” was honored with a Pentel award.

Please view copies of their certificates and artwork on the wall in the rotunda. Congratulations, Katie and Hailey!

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Homework with a Purpose

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 10:37:00 GMT

Students in MSLF’s environment accomplish their learning at school, opening precious opportunities of family time and recreation after school and on the weekends.

Children in Montessori classrooms are granted many freedoms. They have the freedom to move about the classroom with purpose, to speak with each other, to choose their work, and to choose with whom they work. Lessons are given to the child, suggestions are made. The child has the responsibility to be working and to meet the expectations of society. Such expectations include the ability to read, write and do math. The teacher guides the child through observing his interests, preparing the environment, and following the Montessori curriculum in each subject area.

In addition to following the Montessori curriculum, emphasis is placed on practicing the interpersonal skills of compassion and respectful communication. Every minute of their school day students are exposed to lessons of grace and courtesy, and conflict resolution. Children 15 months “young” learn to use their words, rather than action. The students in the Primary classes discuss issues as they occur and make suggestions of how they could have resolved them better. Once the children are in the Elementary and Adolescent programs they have learned how to navigate many sticky situations that arise inside and outside of the classrooms, and they have learned to show kindness and respect to each other. The adults in a Montessori setting strive to set the example by being positive role models.

What does all this have to do with homework? Montessori Schools do not typically assign daily homework. Dr. Montessori believed that if we do not dictate the work of the child in class, then it does not make sense to dictate the work they choose at home. Therefore, traditional homework is kept to a minimum. Montessorians feel that children spend all day in the classroom learning and need their afternoons and evenings to pursue their personal interests, interact with their families and relax.

Parents know that we encourage activities which constructively direct a child’s pursuits during home hours, while nurturing their interests and building family bonds. A fundamental truth permeates Montessori’s work: children are desperate to learn. In a Montessori class, children are motivated to discover why and how things work. Therefore, homework – in a Montessori sense – is work that the child does at home, as an extension of his or her educational exploration. This work should be meaningful work of high interest to the child, and it should have a purpose.

Many activities may constitute homework, including household chores. Responsibilities at home help the child develop language skills and cultural awareness. Making math a real part of the home environment (pairing socks and counting by twos; dividing a pizza into equal pieces; shopping and making change) and giving the child a voice in family decisions are important to the child’s perception of math concepts and economic geography. Reading with and to your children every day will result in quality family time and confidence building.

The quality of education has become a charged topic of late, with several recent films and documentaries addressing the educational system. The question remains: Will more homework raise academic achievement and test scores? Much has been said about overly programmed after-school schedules; too much homework that steals family time; and an approach to learning that emphasizes memorization and test scores over real understanding and critical thinking. Let’s consider spending quality time with our children, inspiring their natural curiosity and love for learning.

Originally appeared at TribLocal.com http://triblocal.com/lake-forest/community/stories/2011/02/homework-with-a-purpose/

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Lissa Hektor deemed “Educator Innovator”

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 19:53:00 GMT

Please click HERE to view the original article as it appeared in the Chicago Sun-Times

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Holiday Celebration Concert

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 22:49:00 GMT

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Why Montessori school homework is minimal

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 16:37:00 GMT

The following article appeared in the December 9th issue of the Lake Forester. Follow this link to view the article on the Lake Forester website where you can comment, share, and find a “printer friendly” version.

December 9, 2010
By LISSA HEKTOR

Parents know that we encourage activities which constructively direct a child’s pursuits during home hours, while nurturing their interests and building family bonds. A fundamental truth permeates Montessori’s work: children are desperate to learn. In a Montessori class, children are motivated to discover why and how things work. Therefore, homework, in a Montessori sense, is work that the child does at home, as an extension of his or her educational exploration.

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Primary 1 Teacher Saachi Kumar recieves ‘Terrific Teacher’ Nomination

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:37:00 GMT

“Saachi has been nurturing children ages three to six at the Montessori School of Lake Forest for more than 25 years, following the Montessori philosophy of education, in which students learn through free but guided play. The intellectual curiosity, cooperation and generosity she fosters in her students provide a strong educational and ethical foundation for the rest of their lives.”

The full article can be read here , courtesy of online magazine makeitbetter.net

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Upper El Literary Winners

Thu, 06 May 2010 16:36:00 GMT

Congratulations Upper Elementary students Demi Glusic and Brede Baldwin on their winning entries in Cook Memorial Library district’s 4th annual creative writing contest.

As winners their poems will appear in Cook Library’s first literary magazine.

The Adventurous Journey by Brede Baldwin
When the Rain Comes by Demi Glusic

Enjoy!

The post Upper El Literary Winners appeared first on Montessori School of Lake Forest .

Harvard Business Review: Innovators and Montessori

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:50:00 GMT

A recent article in HBR discussed innovative entrepreneurs vs average executives. Towards the end, it mentions a connection between several successful innovators and Montessori education!

Here is that last paragraph and then the link to the full article.

“We also believe that the most innovative entrepreneurs were very lucky to have been raised in an atmosphere where inquisitiveness was encouraged. We were stuck by the stories they told about being sustained by people who cared about experimentation and exploration. Sometimes these people were relatives, but sometimes they were neighbors, teachers or other influential adults. A number of the innovative entrepreneurs also went to Montessori schools, where they learned to follow their curiosity. To paraphrase the famous Apple ad campaign, innovators not only learned early on to think different, they act different (and even talk different).”

Full Article

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MSLF News

Human Tendencies: Why Montessori Still Feels So Relevant

From curiosity to self-control, Montessori aligns with the human tendencies that help children grow, adapt, and flourish.

Why Choose Montessori?

Anthropic co-founder Benjamin Mann on why he chose Montessori for his daughter

MSLF Overnight Trips Build Independence and Confidence for Elementary and Adolescent Program Students

Forbes Article: The Surprising Health Benefits Of Montessori Education

Forbes Article highlights mental health benefits of Montessori education

MSLF Retirement Announcement

Montessori Assessments at MSLF

An overview of how Montessori schools assess student progress and development

HOW DO MONTESSORI SCHOOLS ASSESS STUDENT PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT?

THE PREPARED ENVIRONMENT

OBSERVATION AND DOCUMENTATION

LEARNING JOURNALS AND PORTFOLIOS

PARENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATION

FALL AND SPRING CONFERENCES

CONCLUSION

Happy Fall at MSLF! 🍂

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower. ''

- Albert Camus

Technology @ MSLF: Vision, Plan & Guidelines

The Meaningful Use of Technology at MSLF

TECHNOLOGY AT MSLF OVERVIEW

MSLF Curriculum Scope & Sequence

An in-depth look at the Montessori curriculum at MSLF

Graduation & End-Of-Year Message from Head of School, Hope Allegretti

Upper El Raises Money to Support Feed My Starving Children

A wonderful and successful student fundraiser!

The Capstone Years

Age 6 and age 12 in Montessori are referred to as the capstone years. During these years children really dive into big work and develop their self-confidence.

The Impact of Grace and Courtesy

Montessori stresses grace & courtesy as vital for social development. Beginning with respectful behavior then effective communication & community interactions.

Research suggests benefits of handwriting vs. typing

After recording the brain activity of university students, researchers in Norway determined that writing by hand may improve learning and memory. ﻿

Trust the Process: Montessori as an Intentional Approach

The Montessori approach can be intimidating at times. There are many misconceptions about Montessori but the methodology is backed by results.

Montessori Coat Flip!

Family Gratitude Challenge!

During the month of November, we invite the entire MSLF community to join us for the Family Gratitude Challenge!

MSLF is our happy place!

New year, new fun!

Halloween, Montessori-Style 🎃

We share some tips to make the Halloween experience educational, respectful, fun, and developmentally appropriate. Enjoy!

Teach the History

Practice Grace & Courtesy

Remember Developmental Appropriateness

Life moves pretty fast... the benefits of slowing down

The Significance of Being on Time

It makes a world of difference when children arrive on time; staff is able to greet them and everyone is in the classroom at the start of the day.

Three-Hour Work Cycles & the “Flow State”

Why is this significant?

A World of Difference

How can parents best support Montessori teachers?

Moving Away from "How Was Your Day?"

It can be hard for children to talk about their experiences at school. If we shift our approach, we can often get more insight into our children’s day.

Welcome message from Board President

Read this year's welcome message from incoming Board President, Kathryne Martin Nelson:

Welcome to a new school year!

Read this year's welcome message from Executive Director, Hope Allegretti:

Welcome New Families!

MSLF’s Parent Infant Program returns September 14

MSLF Welcomes Danna Ayres, new Adolescent Program Director for 2021-2022 school year

Teacher Appreciation Week: Our Staff

Teacher Appreciation Week: Kathryn Jasinski

Teacher Appreciation Week: Debbie Lincoln

Teacher Appreciation Week: Mia Stompanato

Teacher Appreciation Week: Monica Pearson

Teacher Appreciation Week: Carolyn Lanni

Teacher Appreciation Week: Jessica DeBruler

Teacher Appreciation Week: Candace Weir

MSLF Adolescent Program Now Enrolling For The 2021-22 School Year

MSLF News: Ilan Hurtado Memorial Scholarship

Election Day at MSLF 🗳️🇺🇸

⭐ Back To School Night Message from Hope ⭐

MSLF Announces Hope Allegretti as Executive Director

In The Kitchen: Cinnamon Banana Bread

Nature Journaling Bird Walk with MSLF

MSLF@Home Serves Community with Distance Learning and Connection During Shelter-In-Place

Faculty Attend AMI/USA Conference in Seattle

After recording the brain activity of university students, researchers in Norway determined that writing by hand may improve learning and memory.