Elementary Program
The Elementary Program nurtures independence, critical thinking and a love for learning. Through hands-on exploration and collaborative work, students develop strong academic and life skills with a focus on community engagement, leadership and executive functioning.
Students set their own schedules and receive tailored support.
Individualized Learning
Interactive materials promote critical thinking and problem-solving.
Specialized Materials
Engages students through research, arts, and physical activity.
Vibrant Community
Student Support
Access to intervention ensures student success.
Students progress from hands-on learning to abstract thinking.
Deep Thinking
Students develop responsibility
and guide peers.
Leadership Skills
Emphasis on working together
and shared learning.
Teamwork
Learning Through Exploration and Purpose
Students engage in self-directed learning with hands-on materials, developing their abstract thinking, critical problem-solving, and leadership skills. They work independently and collaboratively and engage in art, music, and P.E. to support academic and social growth. Students also begin to learn from the world around them, organizing and participating in “Going Outs” into the local community. The Elementary program culminates with a a long-term capstone project, tying together their learning journey.
The Curriculum
Lower Elementary (Grades 1–3)
In Lower Elementary, students begin each day with planning time to set goals and take ownership of their learning. Their schedule includes individual and small group lessons, as well as independent and collaborative work periods that build academic skills and confidence. The day also features Physical Education, chorus, and full-class gatherings. Recess and lunch support social growth, while birthday celebrations and occasional outings add joy and enrichment.
Upper Elementary (Grades 4–6)
With a 1:10 teacher-to-student ratio, Upper Elementary students take on increased responsibility and independence. They continue daily planning, participate in focused lessons, and engage in both independent and group work. Students in the Upper Elementary classroom work on complex, student-led initiatives and projects that bring together all of their skills, including the sixth Grade Capstone Project. The program includes Physical Education, music instruction through chorus and strings, and class gatherings. Recess, lunch, and special celebrations help foster community, leadership, and deeper connections among peers.
Learning Together, Growing Together
Mixed-age classrooms are a key part of Montessori education, creating a natural learning environment that supports both academic and social growth. In these classrooms, children of different ages learn alongside one another, which encourages collaboration rather than competition. Older students reinforce their knowledge by helping younger peers, while younger children learn through observation and imitation.
This dynamic promotes leadership, empathy, and confidence in older children, and inspires curiosity and engagement in younger ones. Maria Montessori believed that mixed-age groups reflect the way people interact in the real world and provide a more enriching and supportive educational experience.
Testimonials
Our children have been at WMS for many years, we especially love the elementary program for their commitment to Montessori standards. The teachers go above and beyond for their students, and the individualized instruction is something you cannot find anywhere else
We love the flexibility the children get throughout their days without compromising academics. This experience has shaped our children into the beautiful, well rounded, accepting humans they are today.
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