Junior Elementary

Our Junior Elementary program at Montessori Academy builds upon the foundation established in the early years. At this stage, children experience growing intellectual curiosity, a desire for deeper understanding, and an emerging ability to think abstractly. Our classrooms are designed to meet these needs through a rich blend of academic rigor, hands-on learning, and purposeful independence.

Using a wide array of Montessori materials, students engage in lessons across math, language, geometry, writing, and a broad spectrum of cultural studies. Each child progresses through a continuum of learning based on their readiness and mastery, rather than a fixed timeline. Teachers provide individualized instruction and closely monitor student progress through the use of a curriculum folder, helping each student take ownership of their work and develop time-management skills.

As children gain confidence and maturity, they are expected to demonstrate more independence and initiative in their studies. They are introduced to more complex academic elements such as spelling and vocabulary development, novel studies, and timed math assessments. These activities complement the Montessori approach and help prepare students for future academic environments while honoring their natural curiosity and love of learning.

Science and cultural studies are key components of the Junior Elementary experience. Students explore zoology, botany, physical geography, and the fundamental needs of humans through the lens of the theory of evolution. These subjects are brought to life through storytelling, hands-on experiments, research projects, and outdoor exploration. Our outdoor classroom plays an important role in reinforcing academic lessons, encouraging movement, collaboration, and connection to the natural world.

By third grade, students are capable researchers, confident writers, and thoughtful collaborators. They take pride in their work and begin to show a broader awareness of their community and the world. Classroom activities are enriched with unique Montessori Academy traditions, including:

• Honor Council, where students practice leadership and ethical decision-making

• Author’s Circle, a celebration of student writing and storytelling

• Mercado, a student-run market that fosters creativity and entrepreneurship

• Travel Pets, a playful geography-based exchange of classroom mascots

• Nation Celebration, a culminating cultural project where students explore world cultures in depth

The Junior Elementary program nurtures the whole child by fostering academic excellence, critical thinking, and personal growth. It sets the stage for a lifelong journey of learning, leadership, and self-discovery.