Longmeadow Montessori celebrates 25 years in 2011

Date: 8/8/2011

LONGMEADOW — Twenty-five years ago, Longmeadow Montessori Internationale (LMI) was only a dream.

In 1986, embracing the beliefs of Maria Montessori, Joanne Camerota Hirsch, confided to a small group of parents, her passion and vision “to make Montessori educational principles a reality in a present day global society.” To her amazement, these parents took on the work of securing a loan, purchasing Montessori Materials and finding a location for the school.

Together they created Longmeadow Montessori as a non-profit organization with the goal of creating a nurturing, hands on learning environment that inspires a life-long love of learning in: literacy, math, science, geography, practical life, art, music and French.

Through the work of many dedicated parents and teachers, LMI continues to be a proud establishment in the Longmeadow educational community.

The program is designed to foster confidence, independence, a strong sense of self, and the desire to learn. Children are encouraged to be creative and follow their natural curiosity about the world around them. Children know they are valued as individuals who will be allowed to learn and grow in their own time. The environment is one of patience, kindness and mutual respect.

During the 2011-2012 school year teachers and parents will be encouraging students to perform “25 Acts of Kindness” at school, at home and in the community.

LMI exceeds all state licensing requirements for teacher educational standards, and offers a low teacher-student ratio of one teacher to seven children. The staff takes pride in preparing each of the organized and peaceful classroom environments with new and exciting adventures on a daily basis. To learn more about Longmeadow Montessori, visit www.longmeadowmontessori.org or call 567-1820.