We Have a Vision
The mission of Lowcountry Montessori School is to provide an authentic Montessori education building a foundation for lifelong learning.
Lowcountry Montessori began as a group of dedicated parents, teachers, and community members from E.C. Montessori & Grade School with a vision of offering authentic and free public Montessori education to as many children as possible in and around Beaufort, SC. Community outreach resulted in over 700 letters of support, confirming that area families actively seek alternate public education options and demand for a public Montessori program is strong.
Effectiveness of the Montessori Method, first developed over one hundred years ago by Maria Montessori, has been widely recognized by researchers and educators. Experiential and collaborative, it promotes and allows focus on individual needs and progress. The LMS charter recently received thier charter renewal for another 10 years on July 29, 2013, from the South Carolina Public Charter School District.
Why Montessori?
Using the Montessori Method, we focus on providing an individualized learning experience for each child, allowing them to explore their interests and develop a lifelong love of learning. Our unique approach encourages independence, critical thinking, and a strong sense of self.
Montessori schools intend to foster the creativity of their students by encouraging them to play independently. Students often can choose what to play with, and they interact with Montessori materials rather than with traditional toys. Through discovery rather than direct instruction, they work to develop independence, self-reliance, and confidence.
Usually, classrooms have child-size furniture, and the materials are placed on shelves where the children can reach them. Teachers often introduce the materials, and then children can choose when to use them. Montessori materials are often practical in nature and include pitchers from which to measure, natural materials such as shells, and puzzles and blocks.
The materials are often constructed from wood or textiles. The materials also help children develop skills such as fastening buttons, measuring, and building, and they are designed to help the children master these skills over time through their own self-directed practice.