A Day at Imani Montessori

This is our schedule on an average day at school.

Arrival 8:30 - 9:00

Children arrive between 8:30 and 9:00. During this time many students have breakfast, socialize, or do independent work. This is also the time when families can meet informally with guides.

Morning Meeting 9:00 - 9:15

The morning meeting is a crucial gathering that sets the tone for the day by fostering a sense of community and collaboration among students and teachers. It provides a space for personal connections, encouraging belonging and supportive relationships. Students share their experiences and reflections, developing communication skills and empathy. The meeting involves daily planning, allowing students to take ownership of their learning through discussing schedules, goals, and projects.

Morning Work Cycle (MWC) 9:15 - 11:45

The morning work cycle empowers students with self-directed learning, where they choose work based on their interests and progress independently. Collaboration and community-building are encouraged, while teachers act as guides, offering support and introducing new materials. Additionally, teachers provide brief interdisciplinary lessons, connecting different subjects and fostering a holistic understanding of knowledge. Time management, organization, and self-discipline skills are developed during work cycles. Students cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and inquiry skills while nurturing their love for learning.

Lunch and Free Time 11:45 - 12:45

In Montessori communities, communal dining and snacking throughout the day are encouraged. Communal meals provide an opportunity for students and teachers to come together, fostering a sense of community and promoting social skills. They create an environment where conversations and connections can flourish.

Additionally, we recognize the importance of snacking to maintain energy levels and encourage nutritious snack options that are easily accessible.

Afternoon Work Cycle (AWC) 12:45 - 2:45

This work cycle resembles the Morning Work Cycle (MWC), except for the inclusion of "Specials." These Specials are elective activities such as Debate, Film-Making, 4H, Foreign Languages, and Ecology intensives that take place once a week for 1-2 hours. When not engaged in a special activity, students resume their work from the MWC. It is common for students to focus on Big Work during this time, which represents their unique demonstration of mastery over academic content.

Responsibilities 2:45 - 2:55

Montessori education emphasizes children's care of the environment. Each of our students is encouraged to develop a deep sense of responsibility and respect for their surroundings. Through various activities, such as gardening, cleaning, organizing, and animal care, they learn to appreciate the importance of maintaining a clean and orderly environment. By engaging in these activities, children develop a strong connection to nature, learn the value of sustainability, and cultivate lifelong habits of environmental stewardship. Montessori education instills a profound understanding that their actions have a direct impact on the world around them.

After School 3:00 - 5:30

Dismissal is at 3:00, but very often we offer after-school activities such as Music, Capoeira, Chess Club, Yoga, and Group Therapy. There is no additional cost for these activities and they are entirely optional.