Students at The Grosse Pointe Academy begin their educational journey in the nurturing environment of the Academy's Early School, the longest continuously operating Montessori program in Michigan. Dr. Maria Montessori's philosophy advocates the belief that early childhood education should cultivate a child's desire to learn. Children are given the freedom to explore the excitement of learning on their own while perfecting individual talents under the loving guidance of teachers.
The Early School Montessori curriculum and environment are designed to maximize each child's potential during the ages of two and a half through Kindergarten, with options for a three-day program for the youngest children, half-day programs for three and four year olds, extended day for three and four year olds, and a full-day Kindergarten. Life skills such as confidence, social relations, care of the environment, and development of motor skills, along with concrete, hands-on activities, lead to each child's ability to process abstract information in later school years. Developing productive work habits early helps to lay a foundation of learning for the future.
The practical life area provides a foundation for each child's work habits and helps develop courteous behavior. The sensorial materials in the Montessori classroom help refine the senses and are an indirect preparation for the future study of language, writing and mathematics. Early exposure to social studies, science, French, art, music, creative movement, and physical education round out each child's education and prepare him or her for a lifetime love of learning.
To request an appointment or for further information, please fill out our Online Admissions Inquiry form or contact our Admissions Director, Molly McDermott at (313) 886-1221 ext. 146 or mmcdermott@gpacademy.org.
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