Montessori offers individualized, integrated instruction. The classroom environment contains multisensory materials rather than textbooks, and children move around the room at their own pace, studying art, geography, history, language, math, music, science, etc. at the same time.

For example, students may explore the art, history and inventions of several African nations while studying a map of the continent. They may then feel led to examine ancient Egypt and how hieroglyphs influenced modern-day language and writing. A study of the pyramids could later spark an interest in mathematics. This approach to curriculum shows the connectivity of all things and encourages total immersion in education, giving curiosity full rein.

Montessori classes also group grade levels together, forming communities in which older children spontaneously share their knowledge with younger peers. The primary level includes students ages three through five in prekindergarten and kindergarten. Lower elementary includes first through third grades and upper elementary is for students in fourth through fifth grades.

While Montessori ensures all students learn the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), teachers may not give standard grades or tests.

Progress can alternatively be determined through observation, self-evaluation, demonstration of mastery, oral exams, portfolios of work and student/parent/teacher conferences.

State-mandated assessments, such as STAAR, will continue to be administered at Montessori schools.

Montessori is designed to help all children reach their fullest potential. The varying abilities created by grade-level grouping eliminate feelings of being ahead or behind in relation to peers.

Effective Montessori education requires specially trained teachers—ones who not only know the unique learning materials and activities, but also how to prepare each day’s classroom environment. Montessori teachers observe all students’ skill levels and interests, providing opportunities to build on knowledge already gained and guiding each toward advancement. Staff at Herfurth and Luna elementaries will receive training from an American Montessori Society-accredited training center.

Any interested student can elect to apply by completing the magnet application during the magnet application timeline.

Primary classes contain five spots each for three-year-olds. Like any GISD school, once a child has attended a Montessori campus for one year, they have the right to remain throughout fifth grade.

Interested students must submit an online eligibility form and magnet application. Those who are not currently attending GISD schools must also enroll in Garland ISD. Acceptance will be determined by an assessment. To view the completion deadlines and documents, visit www.garlandisd.net/magnets.

To receive bus transportation, students must attend a school within their designated eligibility area and reside two or more miles from that campus. Special circumstances may apply for magnet programs. GISD does not provide transportation for three and four-year-olds.

8:10 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

An extended day program will be offered for 3 and 4-year-old students on campus for an additional fee.

The district hopes all parents engage in their children’s education. Montessori invites involvement through observations, conferences, parent evenings and other special events. Families are also encouraged to continue learning at home. Can students participate in meal preparation, cleaning, gardening, or caring for clothes, shoes and toys?  This reiteration of skills gained in the classroom provides a real-world application for their education.

Students are only accepted through the Montessori Magnet application process.

Studies show Montessori children rank above average in their ability to adapt to new situations, turn their work in on time, listen attentively and ask probing questions. They have also been encouraged to exchange ideas and discuss their work freely with others, developing good communication skills which will ease their transition.

Yes, students must be potty trained prior to starting any Montessori programs within our district.