Thacher Montessori School

History

Thacher Montessori School was founded in 1971 in a single classroom by Maureen Coughlan. Her vision for a school dedicated to true Montessori principles resulted in steady growth. With support from her diverse and committed community of families and a growing student population, Thacher moved into its current home at 1425 Blue Hill Avenue in 1989. The building was designed to be a Montessori learning environment with easy access to the outdoors, plenty of natural light and a floor plan well-suited for children. In spring 2008, Thacher embarked on a building program to add a second floor to the building. This project was completed in fall 2008.

In 2008, Thacher attained a classic Montessori structure of four Children's House, three Lower Elementary, two Upper Elementary and one Adolescent Program classrooms. The addition of the toddler program, also in 2008, was the culmination of the vision for a complete school providing traditional Montessori education.

Montessori Education

Dr. Maria Montessori developed the Montessori Method of education over a century ago. Her theory of education was based on her knowledge of child development and the sensitive periods children go through as they acquire and process information. Montessori education at Thacher provides the framework in which children can work together and learn from one another; creativity is encouraged and independence is balanced by self-discipline.

Programs

TODDLER PROGRAM (15 months to 3 years old) Thacher's Toddler Community classroom embraces Dr. Maria Montessori's philosophy by providing safe, structured, indoor and outdoor spaces where toddlers explore and learn. The adults in the environment are the children's models. Through peaceful voices and calm interaction a serene environment in which children can pursue their work.

CHILDREN'S HOUSE (3 to 6 years old) Thacher's three-year curriculum offers hands-on experiences in practical life, sensorial activities, language, Spanish, science, math, music and movement, and cultural studies. Each classroom has immediate access to the outdoor environment for gardening, nature study, picnics, and play time. Respecting others grace and courtesy is the foundation for social and personal interaction throughout Thacher as modeled by the guides (teachers).

LOWER ELEMENTARY (6 to 9 years old) Elementary classrooms maintain a balance of freedom and responsibility. Children have the freedom to make choices about their work. At the same time, the children are responsible for doing work that is productive and of high quality. Children enjoy work in groups, which leads to discussion, disagreement, and compromise.

UPPER ELEMENTARY (9 to 12 years old) In the Upper Elementary classroom, students are able to think more abstractly, engage more independently with their surroundings, and produce a greater quantity and quality of work. At the Upper Elementary level students are guided and supported in independent learning. The Montessori philosophy addresses the challenges of the pre-adolescent by helping the children develop the confidence to face the social, emotional, and societal pressures of their age.

ADOLESCENT PROGRAM (12 to 15 years old) The academic program uses an integrated curriculum and a block class schedule to prepare the students for competitive high schools. Students run several businesses, conduct community service, work on a farm, and complete business internships as means to build self-confidence.

Enrichment Programs

Program includes Art, Spanish, Music, Physical Education, Skiing, Camping, Visiting Artists and After School Enrichment.

Summer Programs

Thacher offers summer programs for Toddlers through 8th graders.

Non-Discrimination Statement

Thacher is nonsectarian Montessori school that does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, creed, religion, national origin, cultural heritage, age, gender, marital status, political beliefs, disability, sexual orientation, or family style in its admissions, employment policies, and procedures.