Sunrise Montessori School

IMG_6243.JPGA Desire for Lifelong Learning

With Montessori principles as our guide, Sunrise offers an atmosphere rich in discovery and experiences that cultivate the development of each child’s academic and creative potential.  A positive self-concept, independence, concentration, and self-motivation are encouraged in classrooms filled with beautiful, hands-on materials.

The importance of communication and identifying positive ways of solving problems are daily lessons at Sunrise.  Caring for the classroom environment and taking pride in its beauty give the children a sense of ownership and responsibility.

A close working relationship between teachers and parents ensures a successful learning experience for each child.  The school strives to educate the parents of children attending Sunrise so that they may understand our philosophy and share these four goals: 
  • To help each child make the most of the childhood years and find a special path toward personal happiness
  • To develop a solid academic foundation and desire for lifelong learning
  • To encourage independent decision making
  • To support on-going participation as an integral member of our local and world communities.

Program Descriptions
 

Toddler

The two-year-old child is introduced to a small, simplified Montessori environment designed to meet the needs of a toddler.  A close, nurturing teacher-child relationship and the beginnings of social awareness are the primary goals of the Toddler Program.  The teachers facilitate the child’s successful transition to the world outside of home.  Music and art are an everyday part of the Toddler Program.


Preschool

The preschool program provides a comprehensive Montessori environment for children three to six years of age.  A wide range of academic, social and creative experiences lead to success and high self-esteem.  Each child is encouraged to make independent choices and pursue individual interests while developing an awareness of and empathy for others in the classroom community.

 Lessons on whales, dinosaurs and rocks are the precursors for elementary study of zoology, history and geography.  Foundations for reading and math are a part of classroom activities, which promote fundamental conceptual skills, eye-hand coordination, gross and fine motor art are essential parts of the program, with a professional music teacher adding depth and variety each week.


Kindergarten

The kindergarten year is a time of transition with an increase in abstract thought and broadening social awareness.  The kindergarten program at Sunrise emphasizes a strong foundation in basic language and math skills, artistic and cultural pursuits, science, Spanish and continued fine and gross motor refinement.

Kindergarten is an integral part of our morning Preschool/Kindergarten program, with age appropriate work and an opportunity for the older children to serve as leaders in a familiar environment.  This morning experience is enhanced by an afternoon program that meets four times per week for kindergartners to pursue an extended program of study under the guidance of the head teacher.


Elementary

The Elementary Program offers individualized instruction and discussion-oriented lessons, covering math, language, botany, zoology, geography and history.  Children develop a solid mastery of material in these core areas.  Physical education, fine arts, music and Spanish are also important aspects of the curriculum.

The development of concentration and time management empowers each child with a sense of responsibility for his own learning.  The multi-age classrooms (1st through 3rd and 4th through 6th) allow students to serve as tutors and role models for one another, reinforcing both academic and social skills.

The sense of community and sense of self-esteem flourish as students care for their environment and work together to establish rules to solve group and individual problems.  These experiences are all stepping- stones toward developing an understanding of and responsibility toward the local and world communities.  Upon graduation from the Elementary Program, Sunrise students easily make the transition to middle school.  Proudly, confidently, they step out into the world with the skills and desire to learn, make good choices and contribute positively throughout their lives.


Childcare

Additional hours, before and after class, are available to Sunrise students in preschool and above.  In a Montessori setting, children may choose a quiet activity or join in a group project or game.  Nap, outside playtime and snack are available in the afternoon hours.