Montessori has come a long way since its humble origins in the underprivileged Roman district in 1907. Today, Montessori has expanded to include approximately 5,000 schools in the U.S. and thousands more across the globe. Even some public and charter schools offer Montessori education programs intending to serve the needs of their communities.
Many Montessori schools have evolved to offer modern-day enrichment programs such as language-immersion, foreign language, music, performing arts, athletics, student government, outdoor learning and field trips. Some Montessori schools today have honed in on creating global citizens, by fostering global relationships with children in other countries, which is made possible by modern day technology. Community-based service programs have also experienced a surge of popularity in modern Montessori schools. These programs and practices are great for developing the whole child, as well as strengthening their understanding of different people and their respect for other cultures around the world.
“The child, making use of all that he finds around him, shapes himself for the future.” -Dr. Maria Montessori.
