Adult learners at WSMS-TEP study developmental needs and milestones, practice keen observation, and learn how to demonstrate respect the child’s evolving need for independence. Safety and health measures are reinforced in order to provide critical understanding for new teachers as they create safe spaces for children. The role of collaborative relationships with caregivers is the foundation upon which trusting relationships develop.
The academic phase consists of 245+ hours of coursework in Montessori theory and practice. Classes are a hybrid model, with virtual meetings through Zoom and in-person sessions at West Side Montessori School on the upper west side of Manhattan. In-person class sessions are also held at our additional location for Infant Toddler training at MONS Montessori in Shanghai, China. The instructor-to-student ratio is 1:30.
The Infant Toddler Program practicum phase typically runs concurrent with the academic coursework. In the practicum, students apply the knowledge they gain from the academic coursework in a supervised student teaching experience. Students are responsible for finding their own placement, though we will offer suggestions of schools that we have found to be successful student teaching sites. The student teacher must work for a minimum of a half-day, five days per week, for nine consecutive months in an approved Montessori school under the supervision of an approved supervising teacher, or as a self-directed intern. No portion of the practicum may precede the start of academic coursework.
Location and Format Options
The Infant Toddler Program cohorts begin in summer or fall of every year, depending on the location. The academic and practicum phases may be concurrent, with anticipated completion of training in June of the following summer. Adult learners may choose to defer the practicum phase to the following school year, in which case, completion of the program would occur in June of the year in which the practicum is completed.
Track 1, Summer Entry
West Side Montessori School
New York, NY (Main Site)
Virtual Summer Entry, Track 1
Academic classes meet virtually for 2 weeks beginning in the summer (Monday through Friday), then merge with the Track 2 cohort for in-person classes according to the published calendar. In-person classes are held at West Side Montessori School. This hybrid schedule includes fall and spring in-person seminar weekends (Saturday and Sunday), and some virtual or online sessions according to the published calendar. The practicum phase can begin after the academic sessions have begun.
Academic classes meet virtually for 2 weeks beginning in the summer (Monday through Friday), then merge with the Track 2 cohort for in-person classes according to the published calendar. In-person classes are held at West Side Montessori School. This hybrid schedule includes fall and spring in-person seminar weekends (Saturday and Sunday), and some virtual or online sessions according to the published calendar. The practicum phase can begin after the academic sessions have begun.
Track 2, Fall Entry
West Side Montessori School
New York, NY (Main Site)
In-person Fall Entry, Track 2
Academic classes meet throughout the school year on Saturdays at West Side Montessori School. This hybrid schedule includes fall and spring in-person seminar weekends (Saturday and Sunday), and some virtual or online sessions according to the published calendar. The practicum phase can begin after the academic sessions have begun.
In partnership with MONS Montessori
Shanghai, China (Additional Location)
Academic classes meet virtually for sessions throughout the school year and include an in-person summer intensive in Shanghai, China. This hybrid schedule follows the published calendar. The practicum phase can begin after the academic sessions have begun.
Questions?
Maria Rosado
Infant Toddler Program Level Coordinator
mrosado@wsmsnyc.org
Karen Deinzer
Infant Toddler Program Practicum Coordinator
kdeinzer@wsmsnyc.org
Already have a Montessori credential?
Are you interested in learning more about how to create an inclusive Montessori classroom? Consider combining your teaching credential with the Montessori Inclusion Endorsement (MIE) at a reduced tuition rate. After you complete a teaching credential, you will continue your studies with the MIE in the next cohort.
For more information, contact Katherine Schneider at kschneider@wsmsnyc.org today!
