Montessori
Model Snapshot
Grades: Pre-K–5 Zones: 1–4
At Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), our Montessori schools emphasize an educational philosophy and practice that fosters independence and self-motivated growth. We ensure that each child's social, emotional, and academic needs are met to support well-rounded development.
Curriculum Focuses
- Hands-on learning approach
- Emphasis on the "whole child"
- 1:1 instruction between teacher and student
What to Expect
- Students will participate in daily, multi-hour uninterrupted work cycles where they have a choice in their learning activities.
- All subject matter connects back to the core cultural subjects (science and social studies).
- Instructors teach each concept from a concrete idea to an abstract notion.
An In-Depth Look: Montessori
The Montessori educational model focuses on the "whole child," nurturing their natural desire for knowledge, understanding, and respect. It creates a peaceful environment that inspires children to exert direct involvement over their own learning progress.
By nurturing each individual child's natural desire for knowledge, understanding and respect, the Montessori educational model focuses on the child as a whole person and provides instruction in small groups for a more personalized learning experience.
IPS Schools with Montessori Programming
| Zone | Grade Band | School |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Pre-K–5 | George Washington Carver School 87 |
| Zone 1 | 6–8 | Northwest Middle School (Inquiry-Based) |
| Zone 2 | Pre-K–5 | Rousseau McClellan School 91 |
| Zone 2 | 6–8 | Broad Ripple Middle School (Inquiry-Based) |
| Zone 3 | Pre-K–5 | James Russell Lowell School 51 |
| Zone 3 | 6–8 | H. W. Longfellow Middle School (Inquiry-Based) |
| Zone 4 | Pre-K–5 | Eleanor Skillen School 34 |
| Zone 4 | 6–8 | Thomas Carr Howe Middle School (Inquiry-Based) |
Note: IPS offers a number of high school academies that allow students to continue their studies in a Montessori pathway.