Lower and Upper Elementary
About our Elementary Program
At Ghent Montessori School, our Lower and Upper Elementary classrooms challenge children academically while protecting their sense of self and well-being. Students learn to think critically, work collaboratively, and take ownership of their education.
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🧠 Developmentally Responsive Learning
Children ages 6–12 are in a unique stage of development. Our Montessori Elementary program nurtures their natural drive to:
Transition from concrete to abstract thinking
Engage in deeper peer relationships
Use imagination to enhance memory and creativity
Explore fairness, justice, and compassion
🏡 The Elementary Classroom Environment
Students work in flexible spaces, at tables or on rugs, individually or in small groups. Teachers serve as guides, offering personalized lessons based on interest, skill, and developmental readiness.
We monitor growth across academics, independence, confidence, motivation, social skills, and global awareness.
🌌 Cosmic Education
Montessori’s Cosmic Education fosters a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of life. Elementary students begin asking big questions:
“Who am I?” “Why am I here?” “How can I contribute?”
They begin to:
✅ Build stronger moral reasoning
✅ Think abstractly
✅ Connect with broader communities
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📚 Elementary Curriculum Areas
🛠 Practical Life
Focus shifts to real-world skills: time management, organization, collaboration, and community contribution. Students use tools like work plans and checklists to build independence.
➕ Math & Geometry
Hands-on materials lead students from basic operations to advanced math, geometry, and real-world problem solving. They move from manipulatives to abstract thinking.
✍️ Language
Language study is central across all subjects. Students develop writing, reading, grammar, and research skills. They publish, present, and debate with clarity and confidence.
🌍 Cultural Studies
This is an integrated curriculum blending science, history, geography, civics, economics, arts, and world cultures. Children explore their world and their place within it.
🔬 Science & Social Studies
Inspired by Montessori’s Great Lessons, students dive into Earth science, physics, chemistry, human history, and civilizations while making connections between subjects and global themes.
💻 Technology
Technology is used intentionally. Students learn typing, safe internet use, and research skills. Tech is a tool, used with purpose and care.
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🔢 Montessori Materials: Learning That Sticks
Rather than just memorizing facts, students discover why and how things work. Montessori materials make abstract concepts concrete and allow children to learn by doing.
“We give the child not only the facts but also the tools to discover answers for themselves.”
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🧘 Calm, Focused, Intentional Spaces
Natural lighting
Soft colors
Uncluttered shelves
Materials arranged by subject
The environment encourages deep focus, independence, and curiosity.
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🏡 Homework Philosophy
We do things differently:
📚 Daily Reading is essential.
📝 Optional Project Work may come home for family engagement.
🧹 Real-life tasks like helping with dinner or folding laundry are encouraged.
No meaningless worksheets. No power struggles. Just purposeful work and joyful learning.
“Homework, if any, should nurture connection and creativity, not compliance.”