Learning

Refinement and internalization

The primary program serves children aged 3 to 6. The plane of the absorbent mind is characterized by the time during which a child's mind is like a sponge, absorbing all that is within the environment. Materials, lessons and experiences within the primary classroom are designed to complement the sensitive periods for development of order, language acquisition, refinement of the senses and movement. Characterized by concrete thinking and fundamental formation of character, children endeavor to work independently within a structured environment doing real activities with an intelligent purpose and strive for independence: "I can do it myself!" 

Intense acquisition

The lower elementary program serves children aged 6 to 9, traditionally identified as first through third graders. Lower elementary students continue on a strong academic continuum, with social interactions becoming intensely important as they explore issues of fairness, cooperation, and strive to make decisions for themselves. Lessons provide an introduction to various concepts that are further acquired through follow-up work with the Montessori materials and additional individual exploration.

Refinement and internalization

The upper elementary program serves children aged 9 to 11, traditionally identified as fourth and fifth graders. Upper elementary students are ready for intense exploration of abstract concepts as well as those of social justice, historical relevance, and each individual's role within the greater community and society. Extended opportunities for independent study of topics of interest allow students to be inspired by and make connections with the overall curriculum.

Extended learning opportunities

Dr. Montessori believed children gain knowledge through experiences in the real world that are unable to be developed in the classroom. Through "going out," students connect with their community and broaden their personal and cultural understanding. Upper elementary students take many field trips related to curricular studies each year. 

The FHM middle school is a progressive, holistic program founded upon a developmental response to the needs and abilities of the whole adolescent (physical, emotional, social, cognitive and spiritual). The curriculum, which is thorough, challenging, diverse and integrated, fosters student growth in all areas and prepares them for the challenges they will face as leaders of tomorrow's world. Education at this level continues the Montessori tradition of fully engaging, experiential learning with an emphasis on leadership development, personal responsibility, and rigorous preparation with 21st-century skills. Whether in the classroom or out in the world in any number of internships and off-campus trips, students immerse themselves in meaningful, relevant real-life learning and graduate with the skills to flourish in a variety of high school, college and professional arenas.

Extended learning opportunities

Dr. Montessori believed children gain knowledge through experiences in the real world that are unable to be developed in the classroom. Through "going out," students connect with their community and broaden their personal and cultural understanding. Middle school students take an average of one monthly field trip related to curricular studies in addition to a monthly excursion focused on community service. Our sixth-grade students also participate in Outdoor Education Week, a week-long resident camp experience where students engage in a variety of activities designed to enhance scientific studies. All of our middle school students take two curricular-related overnight trips annually.