The Montessori elementary program covers grades first through sixth. Elementary students explore their world through stories and the power of imagination. Students continue mastering work in core subjects, such as English and math, while branching out to the arts, sciences, geography, history, and Spanish language. These are learned as integrated rather than separate disciplines. It is at the elementary level that the children become fascinated with the “how” and “why” of everything. Assisted by their imagination and reason, elementary students at South Florida Montessori Academy become explorers, not just of the world, but of the entire universe. With a stronger sense of themselves as individuals, children in our elementary program work together and learn to see the world from different perspectives.

Through Montessori materials and targeted activities, our AMI-certified teachers cultivate a community built on negotiation skills, trust, and a strong sense of empathy. Students are introduced to zoology, geography, geology, and other natural sciences, learning not just the concepts but the formal scientific language. Children work in small groups which reinforce their academic learning as well as teach them the life skills of cooperation and collaboration. Materials in the classroom include timelines, pictures, charts, and other visual aids to provide a linguistic and visual overview of the first principles of each subject area. Children are given lessons on subjects but the emphasis is on open-ended research questions and in-depth study using primary and secondary sources. This approach provides students with a greater understanding that allows them to discover the subject for themselves, rather than receive it in a summarized form from textbooks. As an extension of their studies, students go on frequent “going out” trips to make use of local community resources, such as the library and museum. 

As you tour our elementary classroom, you will notice the confidence of our students in their ability to ask inquisitive questions and draw connections between their ideas. You will also notice their engagement with adults and each other, their ability to manage time, work productively and regulate behavior – not just because a teacher is around – but because they have been given the freedom and respect to manage their own behavior from a very young age.

Our elementary community attends five days a week, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Extended care is available until 5:00 p.m.