Simply stated, Gift of Grace Montessori blends the best elements of public, private, and homeschooling. With the ever-changing values that are being forced into the public square, we feel that it is essential to offer an alternative to education. Gift of Grace Montessori’s heart is to nurture children in the ways of the Lord and work with parents as they, “Train up their children in the way they should go so that when they are old, they will not depart from it.”
Our modern-day schoolhouse offers an experience for children and a community for families. We embrace the whole child approach, "mind, body, heart,” leaving room for play, exploration, fun, social, curiosity, wonder, stillness, and rest.
We employ a combination of the Montessori method (updated for today's times) and a more traditional style. We utilize the necessary tools for teaching each child in the way he/she learns best. Hands-on activities and experimentation are highly valued , and we encourage children to explore their interests whenever possible.
Our peaceful environment features a brightness that inspires, and is constructed just for the children’s use, maximizing independence, community, and exploration. The main areas in the classroom include: practical life, language arts, mathematics, art and culture/sciences. There is a conscious effort to design our school as a “children’s house,” making it as comfortable and inviting as a home. The classroom is an atmosphere of calm, order, and joy as children of multi-ages learn together.
Gift of Grace is intentionally small, allowing for a closer sense of community. We believe the social and emotional learning facilitated in this setting is just as important as academics. The children prepare their own snacks, eat lunch communally, care for their environment, and explore the outdoors together. Our surrounding natural grounds emphasize play in the natural world with materials for gardening and nature-based creative construction.
In addition, weekly Yoga class (taught by a certified instructor), walks within our local community, and visits with our grand-friends make Gift of Grace a truly unique and one-of-a-kind experience for children. There is nothing more beautiful and hope instilling than seeing children developing the confidence and self-esteem as they engage in the meaningful and selected work in the Montessori-inspired environment. As Maria Montessori observed, children will teach us if we just observe and listen.
Once our students leave Gift of Grace, they’re fully prepared for the next stage of their education, whether that be continuing a homeschool journey or transitioning into a more typical school setting.
