Distance Learning

Distance Learning and Montessori

"Our aim is not merely to make the child understand, and still less to force him to memorize, but so to touch his imagination as to enthuse him to his innermost core." ~Dr Maria Montessori

Pinewoods Montessori School's goal with distance learning has been to create an authentic Montessori, individualized, and age-appropriate framework that serves our students while supporting families. It is important to us that the children's activity during times of remote learning be enjoyable, thoughtful, challenging and rewarding. We are committed to working in collaboration with families to keep alive the culture of learning that is unique to Montessori and provide families with support and activities that match the developmental needs and characteristics of each child. As with all of our programs at Pinewoods, the key to effective and meaningful distance learning is frequent communication and partnerships with families.

*Updated June 29, 2020

Toddler

Our Toddler curriculum for distance learning focuses on authentic interactions and activities for the home, rather than screen time. During the Spring of 2020, our teachers sent home daily activities for families to implement using materials that could be found around the house, set up individual and group Facetime meetings, and recorded video lessons, including art activities and book reading. We also provided individualized support and check-ins for each family, as well as a Facebook page for parents.

Primary

Our Primary curriculum for distance learning provided synchronous learning opportunities, as well as plenty of at-home activities and lessons with flexible scheduling. While this age does involve varying degrees of parent involvement, our teachers provided daily lessons, Facebook groups for parents, twice-weekly classroom meetings on Zoom, and individualized work plans and assignments. Our Kindergarten students participated in extra lessons and individual meetings with their teachers as well as a very special virtual field trip.

Lower and Upper Elementary

Our Elementary online learning curriculum is meant to be a seamless continuation of what the students are doing in the classroom, as students at this age are more successful with independent activities. Each Elementary class met daily for a morning meeting. Our teachers utilized Google Classroom to provide all weekly assignments and check work. Students had scheduled individual meetings with their teachers each week and additional meetings as needed via Zoom. The teachers also conducted weekly, small-group lessons via Zoom. We utilized a system of "office hours" for whenever our students needed extra support or additional check-ins.

Parent Testimonials

“We are enjoying the Kindergarten and other primary learning materials, videos, and live streaming opportunities, too. Please share with the staff how thankful our family is to them for their hard work helping the kids stay connected and stimulated!” ~ Kindergarten parent

“In the midst of all of this craziness of coronavirus, I just want to take a moment to share how amazing JoAnn has been. I've told her several times, but want to share it with you, because I know how hard this is and how much work it has been, and she has made this as smooth of a transition as possible. Thanks to all she has done." ~ Upper Elementary Parent

“I was blown away by how much new material the teachers were able to deliver during quarantine. My children were engaged, challenged, and busy despite the unusual and unexpected circumstances." ~Kindergarten and Lower Elementary Parent

“I wanted to let you know that Joy and Maria are going above and beyond for these kiddos. I am so grateful to be a part of the Pinewoods family." ~ Toddler Parent