York Montessori School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Preschool/K Curriculum
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at York Montessori School: Montessori
York Montessori School has a Montessori approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
What York Montessori School says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Through the use of the five traditional Montessori Curriculums, we teach appreciation and responsibility for the environment, a sense of cooperation, and respect for others. Children are provided with a wide range of meaningful experiences that empower them to explore their world. We help children gradually expand their knowledge and skills as they grow into confident, self-directed individuals.
Montessori Approach
York Montessori School's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
Toddler | Primary | |
---|---|---|
Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.' |
1.5 to 3 | 3 to 6 |
Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
1 hours | 3 hours |
Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Never (Orthodox) |
Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Never (Orthodox) |
Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
20% | 20% |
Overall approach
Orthodox
38% of schools
Schools that adhere strictly to the original Montessori program. They follow Montessori principles to the letter.
Classroom practices
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Whole-class lectures
Orthodox
Whole-class lectures should never be given. Students learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately orthodox
Whole-class lectures should only be given occasionally (e.g., at the beginning of a term or unit). Students usually learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given semi-regularly (e.g., at the beginning of a lesson or a week). While students often learn best through group and independent work, it's sometimes important for teachers to set the stage for and contextualize learning.
Non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given often (e.g., every day). While group and independent learning is important, teachers need to provide lectures on a regular basis to provide the foundation for learning.
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Special education
Orthodox
External special education support isn't necessary. Core teachers can deal with all special education needs, by offering the relevant support for each student.
Moderately orthodox
External special education support is only rarely necessary. For instance, a psychologist might be brought in to help out a student with a severe developmental disorder.
Moderately non-orthodox
External special education support is quite important. Outside specialists are needed for a fairly wide range of special needs, such as developmental and learning disabilities.
Non-orthodox
External special education support is very important. Outside specialists are regularly brought in to support students with many different types of special needs, including developmental and learning disabilities, language and speech issues, behavioural issues, and advanced learning abilities.
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Specialist classes
Orthodox
We don't have any specialist teachers or classes. Core teachers are well-equipped to teach all subjects.
Moderately orthodox
We only use specialist teachers and classes in rare cases (for instance, to teach a second language). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach almost all subjects.
Moderately non-orthodox
We have a fairly wide range of specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, and art). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach most subjects.
Non-orthodox
We have many specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, art, gym, science, and math). It's important that students receive specialized instruction in many subjects.
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Modern-day technology
Orthodox
Modern-day technology is never used in the classroom. This can interfere with students' social and emotional development and can be a distraction.
Moderately orthodox
Modern-day technology is very rarely used in class, since it can be a distraction and interfere with development. Students at the upper levels, though, might be permitted to use a computer or a tablet to do research for a specific project.
Moderately non-orthodox
Modern-day technology is used in moderation since it can be a distraction. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, and multimedia projects.
Non-orthodox
Modern technology is used fairly regularly. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, multimedia projects, and to learn keyboarding skills. Teachers may sometimes also use digital media, such as interactive whiteboards, to teach lessons or introduce topics.
Teaching assistants
This school uses teaching assistants.
What York Montessori School says about teaching assistants:
There is a TA in each classroom. Many of our TAs have taken the Montessori Assistant's training course.
Language
Learn about York Montessori School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
York Montessori School offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Language immersion include: French immersion
Curriculum Pace
Curriculum Pace approach at York Montessori School: Student-paced
York Montessori School has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
What York Montessori School says about their curriculum pace:
Our curriculum is based on the child's ever changing social and academic needs. Children are given freedom within the limits of a carefully structured environment.
Flexible pacing style
Type | Offered |
---|---|
Subject-streaming (tracking) | |
Multi-age classrooms as standard | |
Ability-grouping (in-class) as common | |
Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace) | |
Regular guided independent study opportunities | |
Differentiated assessment |
What York Montessori School says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
Academic Culture approach at York Montessori School: Supportive
York Montessori School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
What York Montessori School says about their academic culture:
York Montessori School seeks to become the one place where parents, with peace of mind, will leave their children in the hands of our educators. The primary focus of our school is to provide a high quality educational setting in which the child can experience developmental excellence while being cared for in a healthy and enjoyable environment. We will provide a carefully planned and stimulating atmosphere which will help children develop within themselves the foundation, attitude and skills which are essential for a lifetime of creative thinking and learning.
Developmental priorities
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Secondary Developmental Priority: Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
What York Montessori School says about their developmental priorities:
At York Montessori School, we recognize that children learn and develop in their own way and at their own pace and encourage them to work toward independence and self-motivation. Through the use of the five traditional Montessori Curriculums, we teach appreciation and responsibility for the environment, a sense of cooperation, and respect for others. Children are provided with a wide range of meaningful experiences that empower them to explore their world. We help children gradually expand their knowledge and skills as they grow into confident, self-directed individuals.
Special needs support
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Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.DyscalculiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor DeficitA characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
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DevelopmentalAutismRefers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).Asperger's SyndromeOn the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.Down syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).Williams syndromeThis is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
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Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.Clinical DepressionThis is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.Clinical anxietyThis is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.Suicidal thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
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PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.Cerebral palsyhis refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.Muscular dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.BlindnessVisual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."DeafnessHearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).Cystic FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
Type | Offered |
---|---|
Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
Type | Offered |
---|---|
Accommodations | |
Modifications | |
Extra support |
What York Montessori School says:
At York Montessori School, it is our priority to provide or facilitate the appropriate resources available to ensure the highest quality of education for the child. Outside special education resources/support may intervene if necessary, upon discussion with the child's parents. Our school is committed to inclusion, fairness and the right to learn and excel academically and individually.
Additional support
Type | Offered |
---|---|
Social skills programs | |
Occupational therapy | |
Psychotherapy | |
Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
Curriculum Delivery: Acceleration and enrichment
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
Class structure
Program | Offered |
---|---|
Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school) | |
Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class) |
In-class adaptations
Program | Offered |
---|---|
Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement) | |
Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement) | |
Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement) | |
Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement) | |
Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others) | |
Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement) | |
Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement) | |
Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement) | |
Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement) |
What York Montessori School says about their gifted learner support:
At YMS, we believe that children who are more advanced in particular curriculum areas should be encouraged and challenged to explore more advanced materials in the classroom. For example, once a child has mastered certain materials, we often incorporate previously mastered materials from other areas of the curriculum together, allowing them to make deeper and more meaningful connections relating to the outside world.
Homework Policy
Nightly homework
In grade SK, York Montessori School students perform an average of No homework of homework per night.
NS | PS | JK | SK | |
---|---|---|---|---|
York Montessori School | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins |
Site Average | 0 mins | 2 mins | 6 mins | 7 mins |
What York Montessori School says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
How assessments are delivered across the grades
Type | Grades |
---|---|
Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Nursery/Toddler to SK |
Parent-teacher meetings | Nursery/Toddler to SK |
Extracurricular Activities
While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.
Sports offered
York Montessori School offers 0 competitive sports and 1 recreational sports.
- Martial Arts
Clubs offered
York Montessori School offers 4 clubs and extracurricular programs.
What York Montessori School says about their extracurricular activities:
- Karate, Yoga, Art Class, Stretch and Grow, Monkeynastix, Dance Class (Ballet, Hip-Hop)
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: York Montessori School
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