Teacher Accreditation Training
December 1, 2021
We are SO PROUD to congratulate staff members Ashley Benter and Tabatha Jones as they successfully complete their Montessori Early Childhood (3-6 years) Certification Program. We could not be happier for them.
Administered through the Center for Guided Montessori Studies (CGMS), the rigorous, 18-month professional learning course is both MACTE and IMC accredited. Through a series of virtual learning modules and cohort classes, the program helps learners hone their skills surrounding each core area of the Montessori classroom - practical life, sensorial, language, math, and cosmic/cultural. It also included a focus on parent relations, special needs, behaviors, material making, and classroom management, as well as physical activity programming for both outdoors and inside the classroom.
“One of the most profound understandings that I gained from this experience was the interconnectedness of everything,” Tabatha explained. “Every area of the classroom overlaps to create a dynamic and rich learning environment for the child. It has prepared me for creating a peaceful and welcoming classroom environment.
“Perhaps the most important things that I have learned are the importance of observation in guiding the child and the importance of nurturing the spirit of each and every child,” continued Tabatha. “All of these things help me nurture and guide the children that I work with to reach their full potential.”
“Throughout the program, I was challenged to rethink my beliefs about who I am as a teacher,” Ashley noted. “I gained knowledge and confidence in the Montessori philosophy and the works we provide children in the classroom. I have learned how to stretch the imagination and ask a child to wonder, question, and look for their own conclusions.
“My curiosity for new knowledge has grown to match that of the child,” she continued. “I look forward to continuing to follow the child in their journey of growth into the individuals they are meant to be.”
Ms. Ashley and Ms. Tabatha both joined CVMS in 2018. Ashley received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Mount Mercy University. Tabatha earned her undergraduate degree from Carleton College in Northfield, MN. Ashley currently serves as the Lead Directress in the Willow Room. Tabatha shares her skills as Directress in the Lilac Room.
Funds for the CGMS certification program included dollars raised through the CVMS Annual Campaign! Thank you, donors, for continuing to help CVMS provide meaningful Montessori learning opportunities for our staff.