Are you passionate about guiding the self-development of children and adolescents through their early childhood education? Do you aspire to make a positive impact on society through your work in education? In this article we will answer the question ‘how long does it take to get Montessori certifies’ as we as all other related questions so you have the complete picture to move forward with your aspirations.
If so, a career as a Montessori teacher or administrator may be the perfect fit for you!
This profession, built upon the wisdom of Dr. Maria Montessori regarding children’s growth and learning, has the potential to inspire you and allow you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children, their families, and your community.
Montessori teachers serve as conduits, connecting their students to the vast world of knowledge and discovery that surrounds them.
Their role involves observing students, identifying their individual needs, and responding with personalized guidance and instruction.
By establishing trusting and respectful relationships, Montessori teachers empower students, nurturing their sense of responsibility and joy in their own learning.
These elements are also vital for teachers to thrive in this profession.
Within the classroom, Montessori teachers create an enriching educational environment that naturally fosters independence, citizenship, and accountability.
With the guidance of their teachers, students work toward achieving rigorous learning objectives and pursuing their own passionate inquiries.
As a Montessori teacher, you will contribute to and witness the transformative journey of children as they grow into knowledgeable, kind, and joyful adults. However, becoming a Montessori professional requires certified training courses to become a certified Montessori teacher.
This is to ensure that the kids in Montessori academies get quality Montessori education and really understand what it takes to have kids learn at their own pace and direct the path of their learning.
But, how long does it take to get Montessori certified? Typically, obtaining an AMS (American Montessori Society) credential can take one to two years to complete. This includes attending academic hours, which can be conducted in person with an instructor or a combination of in-person and online experiences. The specific number of hours varies depending on the course level and involves engaging in classroom discussions and hands-on activities. Throughout the program, you will create Montessori albums, which serve as teaching manuals for different curricular areas. Upon completion of the coursework, you will embark on a practicum with experienced mentors who will provide guidance and observe your professional growth during this practical phase.
Let’s dive into more details about how to become certified in Montessori education, information about Montessori education, and the things you need to teach in a Montessori.
Overview of the Montessori Education: Teacher Education Programs
The Montessori educational model is a distinctive approach that prioritizes the individual needs of each child.
Developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician, and educator, this method recognizes the inherent potential of young children and their capacity for self-directed learning.
Rather than assuming an authoritative role, the classroom teacher serves as a guide, facilitating the learning process.
Dr. Montessori’s first successful classroom experience took place in Italy in 1907, and her innovative approach quickly gained recognition and adoption in schools throughout Europe.
In 1913, the Montessori method crossed the Atlantic and reached North America, with notable early supporters including Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison.
To promote Montessori education and provide training for teachers in North America, the Montessori Educational Association was established in 1913.
Since 1960, the American Montessori Society (AMS) has served as the governing body for Montessori education in North America.
As a non-profit professional organization, AMS fulfills various responsibilities, including providing support and resources for Montessori teachers and schools, accrediting
Many Montessori teacher education programs, advocate for the Montessori method, and promote understanding and utilization of Montessori education among the general public.
What Does Being Montessori Certified in Montessori School Mean?
Montessori certified means that a teacher has completed a training program that is accredited by an organization that is recognized as a leader in Montessori education.
There are several different accredited Montessori organizations that offer Montessori teacher training programs, and the specific requirements for certification vary from organization to organization.
Montessori certification is a valuable certification for teachers who want to work in Montessori schools. It demonstrates that the teacher has a deep understanding of the Montessori method and is qualified to teach children using this approach.
Becoming A Montessori Teacher: Training Program and Certificate Programs
Driven by Dr. Montessori’s belief that the most crucial phase of human development occurs from birth to six years old, this program embraces the significance of this early period in shaping a person’s intelligence and overall growth.
With a duration of 120 hours, this certification program is specifically designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in instructional roles within primary Montessori schools catering to children aged 3 to 6 years.
Becoming a Montessori-certified teacher also means joining a program that emphasizes essential aspects such as effective classroom management techniques, working in a Montessori classroom, a comprehensive understanding of child development, building the necessary Montessori foundation, and a thorough exploration of the Montessori philosophy.
These programs are designed to prepare aspiring teachers in the Montessori field of education and coursework.
By focusing on these key areas, most training center aims to prepare aspiring Montessori educators for successful teaching experiences in the Montessori classroom setting.
The American Montessori Society (AMS) and the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)-accredited Montessori organizations-along with the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teachers (MACTE), offers a comprehensive range of Montessori certification courses and endorsements to cater to individuals interested in various developmental stages, spanning from infancy to adolescence.
Aside from this, aspiring Montessorian teachers are also required to have an internship in a Montessori with a certain number of hours of instruction in either public or private schools.
Regardless of your preferred age group to work with, these organizations have options available. The accreditation council for teacher education credentials and certifications, including an administrator certification, are as follows:
- Infant & Toddler (birth to age 3)
- Early Childhood (ages 2 1/2 to 6)
- Elementary I (ages 6 to 9)
- Elementary II (ages 9 to 12)
- Elementary I – II (ages 6 to 12)
- Secondary I (ages 12 to 15)
- Secondary I – II (ages 12 to 18)
- Administrator
- Montessori Inclusion Endorsement (MIE)
Whether you aspire to specialize in supporting infants, guiding young children in early childhood, educating elementary-level students, or facilitate learning in the secondary stage, the organization offers suitable training opportunities.
Additionally, if you’re interested in pursuing an administrative role within a Montessori teaching setting, there is a dedicated credential course available to prepare you for such leadership positions in any Montessori organization.
Montessori Certification Eligibility and Credentials
In order to obtain an AMS certification or endorsement (MIE) through an AMS-affiliated teacher education program, certain eligibility criteria must be met. The individuals are required to provide the following prerequisites:
- Applicants are required to possess at least a bachelor’s or college degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university. This prerequisite should be substantiated by an official original transcript from the educational institution, or an equivalent document as determined by a recognized certification evaluation service.
- For those seeking the Montessori Inclusion Endorsement (MIE), it is necessary to hold a recognized Montessori credential from AMS and have a minimum of one year of teaching experience in a Montessori classroom subsequent to receiving the certification.
- If you possess a Secondary level diploma (high school diploma), a general equivalency diploma (GED), or an international equivalent, but do not hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university or its equivalent, you may qualify for an Associate credential. However, it is strongly recommended that individuals with an Associate certificate work towards obtaining a bachelor’s degree in order to upgrade to a full credential, as this will provide them with broader opportunities in the field.
Having a Full credential can open doors to a multitude of possibilities within the Montessori pedagogy realm. Many Montessori training programs are dedicated to following the core principles of Montessori through these pieces of training and teaching certificates.
Summary
So how long does it take to get Montessori certified? Well, it usually takes about one to two years to become Montessori certified. This means going through a special training program. The program involves attending classes, which can be in person or online, or a mix of both.
The number of hours you need to complete depends on the level of the course. You’ll be part of discussions and do hands-on activities in the classes. During the program, you’ll also make Montessori albums that are like teaching manuals for different subjects. After finishing the classes, you’ll have a practical phase where experienced mentors guide you and observe your progress.
Montessori method is experiencing rapid growth worldwide, making it a highly sought-after model of education.Â
Obtaining certification as a Montessori teacher not only provides job security but also offers the flexibility to work in various locations across the globe.
Becoming a certified Montessori teacher requires specialized training and the completion of a Montessori teacher training program.
This program equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively implement the Montessori philosophy and methodology in the classroom.
Additionally, practical experience in a Montessori classroom setting is crucial, allowing you to apply the principles you have learned and gain valuable hands-on experience.
To solidify your certification, you will need to undergo an assessment to demonstrate your understanding and proficiency in Montessori pedagogy.
This assessment ensures that you are well-prepared to guide young learners in their educational journey and uphold the standards of Montessori classes.
Though the process of becoming a certified Montessori teacher may involve dedication and effort, the rewarding experience of guiding and nurturing young minds on their path to knowledge makes it all worthwhile.
FAQs
What is the salary of a Montessori teacher in USA? The salary of a Montessori teacher in the USA varies depending on the experience, location, and type of school. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a Montessori teacher in the USA is $47,190 per year. However, salaries can range from $32,175 to $52,514 per year.
Are Montessori teachers strict? Montessori teachers are not typically strict in the traditional sense. They do not use punishment or rewards to control children’s behavior. Instead, they focus on creating a calm and orderly environment where children can learn and grow at their own pace. However, Montessori teachers do have high expectations for their students. They believe that children are capable of great things, and they challenge them to reach their full potential. Montessori teachers also provide clear guidance and support to help children learn and grow.
Why is Montessori training so expensive? The Montessori method is a complex and comprehensive approach to education. It requires teachers to have a deep understanding of child development, the Montessori philosophy, and the use of Montessori materials. These training programs are typically offered by non-profit organizations that need to raise funds to cover the cost of the program, including the salaries of the instructors, the cost of materials, and the cost of facilities. Despite the high cost, Montessori training can be a valuable investment for teachers who are interested in working with children using the Montessori method. Montessori teachers are in high demand, and they typically earn more than teachers who are not certified.