MISSION & PHILOSOPHY
Goldberg Montessori School is the oldest Jewish Montessori Early Childhood/Kindergarten program in the Southwest region of the United States. It combines a rich Judaic studies curriculum with motivational Montessori guidelines — established by Maria Montessori over one hundred years ago. Dr. Montessori believed that, “the most important period of life is the first one, the period from birth to age six, for that is the time when man’s intelligence itself, his greatest implement, is being formed.” Our school prides itself on providing a nurturing environment that facilitates learning. Our school’s commitment is to honor the path of each child.
Judaic Program
Our school offers an integrated Judaic curriculum that aligns with the Montessori Method. Our Judaic program includes daily morning prayers, brachot (blessings), Birkat HaMazon (grace after meals), parashat hashavuah (the weekly Torah portion), chagim (holidays), and the incorporation of Judaic themes in everyday life, such as mitzvot and character traits from Torah heroes. We learn about all of the Jewish holidays through song, stories and art projects. Hebrew language skills are an integral part of our daily classroom routine. The Hebrew language teacher rotates through our classrooms familiarizing the children with basic Hebrew vocabulary and reading skills for those who are ready. Students have both group and individual Hebrew lessons.
Montessori Program
Dr. Maria Montessori felt that the goal of the educational process was to cultivate the child’s own natural desire to learn. Our classrooms allow the children to work at their own levels, make their own choices, and assume responsibility as members of a group. Primary classes are comprised of children varying in age from three to six, and toddler classes begin at the age of 18 months.
Philosophy
Our early childhood center is unique in that we successfully combine a rich Judaic curriculum with the Montessori curriculum. Each of our classrooms has both a fully certified Montessori teacher as well as a Judaic teacher. The objective is to foster a love of learning and joy in work.
The Montessori concept allows children to experience the joy of learning at an early age and provides an environment in which intellectual, moral, physical, spiritual and social growth flourish. Montessori felt that the goal of the educational process was to cultivate the child’s own natural desire to learn. Children, from birth to six, can acquire knowledge and understanding effortlessly, spontaneously, and joyfully. Our students work individually and cooperatively with materials as they develop their independence, coordination, sense of order, self-discipline, and concentration.
