Montessori on the Edge: Mapping Cohesive Development

2010 Refresher Course and Workshops

Despite the cold weather in Jacksonville, the 2010 Refresher Course played host to warm camaraderie and fostered a real sense of our community. Our speakers challenged participants to think outside the box and encouraged a deep connection between the theory behind the work in the classroom and the actual practice.

The theme of the 2010 Refresher Course and Workshops was Montessori on the Edge: Mapping Cohesive Development. Speakers reflected on the changing role of education at a national level. Policymakers are increasingly turning to experts in education and psychology in their search for answers to the nation’s burgeoning educational gaps. For over a century, Montessori has offered children an education that prepares them not only for their next level of schooling, but for the rest of their lives. As the national focus shifts, Montessori is poised to offer a cohesive approach to education.

Speakers at the conference included Judi Orion, Molly O’Shaughnessy, Baiba Krumins Grazzini, Marc Brackett, Ph.D., Eduardo Cuevas, Trevor Eissler, Peter Davidson, Sue Pritzker, Paulette Zoe, and M. Shannon Helfrich. For a fill list of conference events and descriptions, please click here to download the conference brochure.

Selected Conference Feedback

“It broadens us to have keynote speakers like Dr. Pianta, who bring experiences, studies and information from outside Montessori.”

“Thank you for a wonderful conference in Jacksonville! I feel truly refreshed and excited to take what I have learned home to make my school a better place… I look forward to next year!”

“I enjoyed every aspect and every lecture. I am feeling refreshed and can not wait to implement some changes in my environment.”

“The topic was just what I needed to reflect upon and gain new insight.”

“Excellent. I am taking away ideas from all speakers from statistical, analytical work to concrete information.”

“This was a fantastic conference. I am going back to school with renewed inspiration and drive to spread the greatness of Montessori education!”

Tribute to Silvia Montanaro M.D.

Perhaps one of the most moving aspects of this year’s conference was the celebratory tribute to Silvana Montanaro, the first A to I trainer in United States, that took place on Sunday, February 14, 2010. Many supporters and students gathered over lunch to share stories and memories and watch a short tribute video (see below). Silvana joined the event via teleconference from Europe.