We help our young students become:

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Self-Directed Learners

Children have a natural love for learning. At WSMS, we focus on helping children learn how to learn, so they become intrinsically motivated to do so, and retain their zest for knowledge throughout their lives.

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Flexible Thinkers

Developing the ability to think in a flexible way, and to adapt to one’s surroundings, was something Maria Montessori valued greatly: “The person who is developing freely and naturally arrives at a spiritual equilibrium, in which he is master of his actions, just as one who has acquired physical poise can move freely. When he is master of himself he is also flexible in his attitude towards others, and capable of adaptation to the wishes and requirements of others, and of ‘give and take.’ ”

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Creative Problem Solvers

Montessori children are natural and confident problem solvers. They are resourceful, and can come up with imaginative solutions that adults might not think of. Rather than try and mold the child to our adult way of thinking, we believe that he can arrive at informed decisions by using his own innate reasoning skills. As Maria Montessori said, “Leave the child free to make use of his powers and he will show himself capable of success.”

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Empathic Citizens

At WSMS, it is important to us that children grow to be confident, successful, and self-assured individuals, but equally important that they possess empathy and respect for others. Children who develop a social conscience, compassion for others, and a sense of responsibility towards others will change the world for the better, and we work every day to ensure that happens.

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Resilient Individuals

Every child experiences disappointment and failure as he learns and grows, but the way he is helped to respond to these difficult times is key. A resilient child looks at mistakes and disappointments as opportunities to learn, rather than setbacks, and as a result, he approaches life with enthusiasm and confidence. Building resilience is an important part of our work at WSMS.

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Letter from the Director

I am delighted to share information with you about the West Side Montessori School’s Teacher Education Program (WSMS-TEP). You are considering a very important and rewarding profession — a career in which you can make a difference in the lives of children and their families.

Montessori education is based on beliefs about human development and relationships. At the core of Montessori education is respect -- respect for each person, for all life, and for the environment. Respect for each child’s uniqueness leads to trust, and trust is essential for learning and growth.

You will find that the WSMS-TEP community is a warm and welcoming place to learn.  Our very experienced faculty includes teachers who work in Montessori classrooms every day with young children and leaders of Montessori schools. We share a deep commitment to preparing adult students for challenging and fulfilling work.


We are down to earth and at the same time very serious about the responsibility of educating young children. We are a learning community, a community in which adults find friendships, a community where your participation is encouraged, a community where you are listened to and where your involvement is welcomed.


Mimi Basso
Director

 

 
West Side Montessori School | 309 West 92nd Street | New York, New York 10025 | Phone: 212-662-8000 | Fax: 212-662-8323