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The 6th grade year is not only the last year of the elementary cycle; it’s t...
Montessori schools are intentionally structured utilizing a three-year cycle. There are...
One unique aspect of the authentic Montessori experience at Keystone is the 3-year...
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Updates From Ms. Laura & Mr. Stefan
Dear Keystone Families,
As the time for re-enrollment approaches, I would like to reflect on the three-year cycle in our Montessori classrooms and its significance. The multi-age environment is a hallmark of the Montessori method and is inextricably linked to the importance of the three-year cycle. This approach ensures that children remain at each level of their Montessori classroom for three full years. These years provide a progression: children begin as observers and learners, transition to confident practitioners in their second year, and emerge as leaders and mentors in their third year. This cycle is crucial to the health of both the Montessori classroom environment and each child’s academic and social development.
The Montessori classroom thrives on multi-age groupings, fostering a supportive and empowering community through diverse interactions. As Dr. Maria Montessori observed, “There are many things which no teacher can convey to a child of three, but a child of five can do it with the utmost ease. Our schools show that children of different ages help one another. The younger one sees what the older ones are doing and asks for explanations.” These multi-age groupings create a dynamic environment that promotes both social and academic success.
Academically, the three-year cycle is indispensable. It represents the culmination of a child’s learning and experiences at each level. Students in their third year integrate knowledge from all areas, share it with younger peers, and deepen their own understanding through teaching. Presenting materials to others helps solidify their learning, fostering mastery and confidence. By the third year, students are well-acquainted with the classroom lessons and materials, allowing them to engage in deeper exploration and study. They learn to view mistakes as opportunities for growth and understand that intelligence is not fixed but constantly evolving. These lessons foster resilience, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.
While the academic benefits are profound, the development of “non-cognitive” or soft skills is equally impactful during the third year. This is the year when children assume leadership roles, honing skills essential for navigating the broader world. Students in multi-age environments are more comfortable seeking and offering help, becoming collaborative learners in the process. Over their three years, they develop confidence, leadership abilities, and a deeper understanding of themselves and others.
We look forward to continuing to connect with each member of the Keystone community as we prepare for the 2025–26 school year.
Laura Hertzler Stefan Linder
Head of School Associate Head of School
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETINGS
Per A.R.S. § 38-431.02. Notice of meetings for the Board of Directors of Keystone Montessori Charter School and any of its committees will be posted on this website under Explore Keystone – School Board – Meeting and Agendas. Notices will also be posted on the Lobby Bulletin Board, 1025 E. Liberty Lane, Phoenix, Arizona 85048, which is open to the public between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
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