Welcome.

Welcome to Montessori Academy.  Our campus is full of history, memories, and people who have made an impact on our community since 1968.  One of the greatest strengths of our school is our partnership between students, families, faculty, and staff. Together, we create a community built on mutual respect, trust, and commitment to each child's success.  

At Montessori Academy, we believe that young people will not only affect the future but are the future.  In addition to math, sciences, geography, reading, and writing, young people are encouraged to be peacemakers and find ways to support communities within our school, locally, and worldwide.  We often refer to our students as global citizens.  Young people are taught practical life skills to help care for themselves and the environment.  Lessons are given at each level that focus on grace, courtesy, and conflict resolution. These values are intended to help students take the knowledge they have learned at MA and positively apply it to the world where they are active participants.   

Classroom lessons are often referred to as work where children have the opportunity to find answers through hands-on materials.  Materials are introduced, practiced, and eventually mastered both individually and in small groups.  Though we understand the importance of students recognizing and identifying numbers and letters on paper, we take education a step further.  For our younger students, we place a small golden bead in their small hand.  We tell them this is one.  This is how it can look and feel when you touch it.  We show them a written number and say, “This is one.”  The young person does not just memorize a fact but has something tangible that shows them the meaning and represents the quantity of that symbol.  This method of teaching is used throughout all areas of study.  The child is given time to work independently and practice until they can show the guide they are able to complete the work without assistance.    

We strive not to do things for children that they can do themselves.  We encourage our students to try to find solutions whenever possible.  Hard work and hands-on lessons give young people a chance to craft answers through lived experience.  Students have the opportunity to search for answers instead of the adults providing it for them.  

Dr. Maria Montessori once said, “There should be music in the child’s environment, just as spoken speech exists in the child’s environment. In the social environment, the child should be considered, and music should be provided.” Being so close to Nashville, TN (the Music City), our founders felt we should embrace a strong connection to the arts and creativity.   “In fourth grade, students pursue an instrument to study.  They may choose between brass, woodwind, strings, percussion, or voice training.  Students ages 18 months through age 6 are given art and music materials to explore in their classrooms.  Starting in Kindergarten, our students take additional classes with our specialists inmusic, art, physical education, and outdoor education.  Spanish is added in the first grade. Much like our classroom environments, we urge students to embrace these programs with the possibility that they may facilitate the spark of creativity that lies within them.   

Whether you are starting your journey looking at our Toddler programs, considering our high school program, or anywhere in between, we appreciate you taking the time to consider Montessori Academy for your child’s educational experience.  Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have.  We look forward to getting to know you and your family.   

Take Care, 

David T. DeHarde (Mr. Dave) 

Head of School