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Montessori education for students ages 6-9 years old (Lower Elementary) and 9-12 (Upper Elementary) focuses on fostering independence, intellectual curiosity, and social development through hands-on, self-directed learning. 

The Montessori method, in HPMS’ nurturing and caring classroom environments, supported by exceptional, passionate teachers:

• Encourages independence and self-motivation as students are trusted to take charge of their learning.
• Fosters critical thinking and problem-solving through exploration and discovery.
• Strengthens social skills in a collaborative, community-centered environment.
• Deepens understanding through interconnected, experiential learning across multiple disciplines.
• Nurtures a lifelong love of learning by allowing children to follow their natural curiosities and dive deeply into their studies.

Here are some of key features of the Elementary Programs at HPMS (Grades 1 – 5):

Multi-Age Classroom:
Students of different ages work together in the same environment. This encourages peer learning in a collaborative community setting, where younger students learn from older ones, and older students reinforce their knowledge by assisting and mentoring younger peers. Our Lower Elementary Program is designed for students ages 6-9 (grades 1-3) and our Upper Elementary Program is designed for students ages 10 -12 (grades 4-5).

Highly-Trained, Experienced, Passionate Teaching Team:
Many of our educators have advanced degrees and have been with us for over a decade. Some of our educators started as state-certified teachers who quickly became passionate about the Montessori method of teaching and learning, opting to also complete their Montessori Certification. The teaching teams include a trained Literacy Specialist for each team.

Individualized Learning:
The Montessori method emphasizes personalized learning plans. Each child progresses at their own pace, allowing them to delve deeply into topics they are interested in while receiving guidance tailored to their needs. Small group projects are also completed by students who are ready to embark on the same concepts.

Hands-On, Learning that moves from the Concrete to the Abstract:
The Montessori approach uses specially designed materials that allow children to explore concepts in a tactile and experiential way. For example, students use materials like the stamp game (pictures above) or the checkerboard for math, which provide a concrete understanding of arithmetic before transitioning to abstract concepts. Students are able to explore and understand the “why” behind the concept, not just complete the work in a rote way to achieve an answer.

In Upper Elementary (Grades 4-5), students are encouraged to solve more complex problems using reasoning and logic, lessening the need for concrete materials. The Montessori materials are gradually replaced by more abstract thinking, in particular in math, geometry and science. 

Interconnected Curriculum:
Subjects like math, language, science, and geography are presented in an interconnected way. For example, a lesson on the solar system might involve math, history, geography, and writing, illustrating the interrelatedness of knowledge. While curricular content is correlated to state standards, the Montessori approach affords the students opportunities to dive even more deeply into a topic based on their interests and passions, and to present their knowledge in any number of creative ways.

In Upper Elementary (Grades 4-5), students will also engage in longer-term, interdisciplinary projects that often involve research. This approach not only encourages independence and team work, but also supports students in building time management and critical thinking skills.

Focus on Cosmic Education:
At this stage, Montessori introduces the concept of “cosmic education,” which encourages children to explore their place in the world and the universe. Through lessons, activities, and discussions, students begin to understand the larger systems in which they live and gain a sense of responsibility toward society and the planet.

In Upper Elementary (Grades 4-5), students will focus more on their own role in the community and society at large as they delve into human history, civilization, ethics and global responsibility.

Freedom Within Limits:
Students are given the freedom to choose their work and move around the classroom. However, this freedom exists within structured guidelines that teach students how to manage their time and responsibilities effectively.

Collaboration and Social Development:
The environment encourages collaboration rather than competition. Children work on group projects, problem-solve together, and learn social skills in a respectful, community-oriented setting.

Teacher as a Guide:
The teacher, or “guide,” acts as a facilitator rather than a traditional instructor. Their role is to observe the child, introduce new concepts and materials when the child is ready, and support the child’s individual learning process.