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CM families and staff gathered on February 24, 2026 to engage in an open panel discussion about CM’s high school program. Our thanks to the many families and CM staff who joined us and participated in The Future of Teens Panel at CM this week. Families and staff engaged in. an open panel discussion about CM’s high school program, important information about Indiana Diploma requirements, and other unique experiences in the Teen’s program.  Anyone is welcome to watch a replay of the event here , and below you can find a link to all the information in the packet shared with families during the event.  Community Montessori Secondary Program

On Friday, January 23, 2026, Community Montessori teens (ages 14-18) gathered for the 5th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Conference, a key experience within the high school program.  More than a single-day event, the conference reflects our year-round commitment to civic engagement, critical thinking, and social responsibility.   At CM, our Teens program invites learners to move beyond passive learning into active participation. Through structured days of service, weekly Random Acts of Kindness within our school community, and an independent philanthropy project, learners are consistently challenged to connect their studies to real-world impact. The annual MLK conference serves both as a deep academic exploration and a call to action.  Teens participate in the conference session: “What is my responsibility” A Day of Study, Reflection, & Dialogue The day’s keynote session was a viewing of the documentary The Dream That Changed America, a full, biographical look at Dr. King’s story and philosophy of nonviolence, justice, and collective responsibility. Teens rotated through two rounds of guided sessions exploring a wide range of topics and subjects including history, art, and civics. Sessions led by CM staff included activities and discussions such as the cosmology of Dr. King, the social construction of race, redlining in our communities, the evolution of systemic racism, art as activism, and personal responsibility in the face of injustice.   Midday, the community gathered to share lunch and celebrate Dr. King’s birthday with cobbler from Toni T’s Bakery, reinforcing the importance of community, reflection, and joy alongside serious study.   Following the afternoon sessions, the conference concluded with a final community meeting where learners reflected in groups on the day’s learning and shared their own dreams. True to Montessori philosophy, reflection was not the end of the experience.  Putting Learning into Action: Day of Service On Friday, February 6, 2026, CM Teens carried their learning into the broader community through a full Day of Service. Across Southern Indiana, group of learners volunteered their time and energy at a wide range of local organizations: Walking the Greenway from New Albany to Jeffersonville to gather trash Serving the Jeffersonville Township Public Library through cleaning, dusting, scanning, and filing Supporting the New Albany-Floyd County Public Library by sorting food pantry items and cleaning the children’s area Cleaning and organizing at Hope Southern Indiana Assisting with cleaning and sorting at YMCA of Southern Indiana Preparing meals and cleaning spaces at the White Flag Shelter 1: A teen dusts shelves in the Jeffersonville Public Library, 2: Teens pick up trash along the Greenway, 3: Teens cross the Big 4 Bridge while walking the Greenway Back at CM, other teens spent the Day of Service on campus where they:  Made 500 sandwiches for local shelters Prepared plastic bags to be woven into mats for those experiencing homelessness Organized and restocked the CM Food Pantry Teens at CM prepare sandwiches for local shelters Experiences like the MLK Conference and Day of Service offer a window into what makes the CM Teens program distinctive. Civic engagement is not an extracurricular activity, it is woven into the curriculum. Learners engage respectfully in difficult conversations, collaborate, and translate values into actions with real responsibility. CM Teens are not just earning credits, they are developing habits of the mind and heart that prepare them for adulthood.

Over Winter Break, the Islands Gardening Occupation (ages 12-14) was able to truly level up our CM Greenhouse thanks to a generous donation from the Clifton Family Fund. These upgrades have already made a noticeable difference in both the function of the space and the learning happening within it.  The improvements include new plastic covering for the entire structure, new baseboards, and the installation of components that allow the sides of the greenhouse to roll up during warmer weather. These changes and upgrades help us maintain a more consistent temperature, keeping our plants healthier and happier. The added ventilation also creates a more comfortable and inviting environment for learners as they work inside the greenhouse.  Learners put the finishing touches on the new roll-up system by installing eyebolts for the ropes, getting hands-on experience and taking pride in the new space.  Because improvements to occupations are usually more incremental, this was a unique time when learners could experience meaningful transformation of the environment and see it in an all new light. Conversations were abuzz with ideas, observations, and next steps for gardening.  With these upgrades now complete, Islands learners (ages 12-14) are actively planning and working toward their Spring plant sale. We are grateful to the Clifton Family Fund for supporting this important learning space and helping us grow, literally and figuratively!

At Community Montessori, learning is more than just what happens in the classroom; it’s a journey that unfolds from a child’s earliest experiences all the way through their teenage years. Each of our programs is thoughtfully designed to meet children where they are, supporting their natural growth toward independence, curiosity, and community. One defining feature of Montessori education is our mult-age approach, which begins at birth and continues throughout elementary, middle, and high school years.  Learners work together in “levels” that include three-year age groupings. These multi-age environments allow learners to stay with the same teachers for a three-year cycle, fostering deep relationships, leadership opportunities, and a sense of community that supports each child’s unique growth.  Early Education  In our Early Education environments, children ages 3-6 begin to discover the joy of doing things for themselves. Every material, every interaction, and every routine is designed to help them develop concentration, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Within these multi-age environments, younger children have the opportunity to learn from older peers, and older children grow into natural leaders and helpers. Through this process, they build the foundations not only for academic success but for social and emotional growth.  Early Education learners on the Back 4 (ages 3-5) Elementary The elementary years are filled with exploration as learners are eager to understand how the world works and their place in it. At this stage, learners work in two age groups, Biomes (ages 6-9) and Gemstones (ages 9-12). Our program is built around eight core constructs that guide development of the whole child: social, emotional, intellectual, aesthetic, physical, moral, creative, and school success. With the support of caring guides, children learn joyfully and collaboratively in environments that encourage both independence and interdependence. They are given the freedom to follow their curiosity while learning how to work together with respect and cooperation.  Gemstones Camping Trip (Upper Elementary, Ages 9-12) Teens As children move into adolescence, their needs change in many meaningful ways, and our Teen Programs provide an environment that honors this important transition, offering a new perspective on what it means to learn and grow during the teenage years. Continuing our multi-age model, learners ages 12-14 are part of the Islands studios, and learners ages 14-18 make up the Woods studios. At CM, teens experience an atmosphere of mutual respect between adults and learners, recognizing that everyone has something to teach and something to learn. The work of these years focuses on developing independence and social responsibility, helping adolescents understand their value, their capabilities, and their impact on the world around them.  Islands Learners gather for group (ages 12-14)

What do you remember about learning to read?  Was it curling up with a favorite story, sounding out words for the first time, or maybe listening to someone read aloud with expression and care?   Maybe reading came easily or maybe it took time to feel confident. How did the adults in your life support you? What made reading feel joyful or challenging?  These are all valuable questions to revisit as we think about how to support children in developing their own relationship with reading. Rather than focusing on a set of skills to be memorized ,in Montessori education, we view learning to read as a natural process that unfolds through curiosity, connection, and meaningful experiences with language. How Reading is introduced in Montessori In Montessori environments, children are introduced to writing before reading. This may sound surprising at first, but it allows learners to practice language skills in a way that feels natural and low-pressure. When a child builds a word with the  Moveable Alphabet,  they are expressing their understanding of how sounds come together long before they’re expected to read printed words on a page.  From there, learners progress to Phonetic Object Boxes , matching written words with familiar items, and eventually to Reading Cards  that introduce new vocabulary and concepts. At every stage, children gain a deeper understanding of language. This process is not simply memorizing letters or sight words; children are discovering how language works.  Choosing Appropriate Books The books we offer play an important role in supporting a child’s literacy development.  For Early Education learners (ages 3-5), look for books that reflect real life: stories about people or animals doing natural, everyday things. Avoid books that feature animals or people engaging in magical happenings (talking animals, flying people etc); realistic stories help children make meaningful connections to their own world. Choose topics that align with their interests such as gardening, cooking, caring for animals, or exploring nature.  For Elementary learners (ages 6-9), interests often expand into imagination and curiosity about the wider world. This is the perfect time to introduce fantasy stories, chapter books, and nonfiction books related to topics your learner is passionate about such as oceans, outer space, history, or inventions.  Strategies to Support Early Literacy at Home There are many simple, joyful ways to nurture a love of reading outside of school:  Read Aloud: Reading aloud is one of the most powerful ways to support literacy. Hearing language builds vocabulary, comprehension, and a sense of rhythm in language.  Create Reading Routines:  Establish a daily reading time, maybe before bed or after dinner.  Consistency helps children see reading as a natural and enjoyable part of life.  Encourage Storytelling:  Invite your child to tell stories about their day, their favorite animals, or an imaginary adventure. Storytelling builds sequencing, vocabulary, and creativity, all of which are essential skills for reading and writing.  Ask Open-Ended Questions:  Instead of “did you like the book?” try questions like, “What part surprised you the most?” or “How do you think the character felt?” This kind of conversation helps deepen comprehension and critical thinking.  Supporting literacy at home doesn’t require a big plan, just small, consistent moments of connection through stories, words, and curiosity.   Current CM Families are invited to attend the upcoming Family Engagement Series Panel: Why Reading is So Important. Find more information about the event and RSVP on ParentSquare. Everyone is welcome to download any of the resource below that can help support you and your family in developing reading habits that fit your family’s rhythm and your child’s reading journey. Downloads: How to Read To & With Your Child (primary & elementary)

At CM, we believe our words carry power. The way we speak to children, to each other, and even to ourselves shapes how we see our community and how children see themselves. This practice of choosing our words and meanings is called the Language of Reverence.  The Language of Reverence is more than just being polite. It’s about choosing words that reflect our values, our respect, and our belief in every person’s dignity. Over time, this model emphasizes creating a powerful shared language that allows all members of the community to feel respected and valued.   Small shifts in phrases and/or word choice like those in the list above can help promote respectful communication.  What does this look like in practice?  Positive Phrasing:  Replace a negative statement with a clear, affirmative statement. Body Language:  Our body language, facial expressions, and tone matter just as much as our words.  A calm, respectful voice communicates safety and care.  Careful use of “no.”  In Montessori, “no” is reserved for moments of real safety or urgency, so children learn to trust it and respond immediately. If “no” is used constantly, it loses its power.  Offering choices:  Whenever possible, children are given choices between acceptable options. This allows them to practice independence while still working within clear boundaries.  Using “wait.” Sometimes, children need help learning patience. Using the word “wait” acknowledges their request while modeling respect and self-regulation. Examples of Positive Phrasing in everyday communication. At home, families can bring the Language of Reverence into daily routines:  Thank your child for contributions, big and small.  Acknowledge effort rather than only focusing on results: “I see you worked carefully on that drawing.”  Use precise language to name objects, emotions, and experiences, showing respect for your child’s growing understanding of the world.  Pause before correcting or redirecting so that your words and tone reflect care as well as guidance.  Read more about Montessori Grace & Courtesy in this article  from the American Montessori Society.  Here are some more resources for parents from Public Montessori in Action:  Language of Reverence Positive Phrasing

At Community Montessori, we look to Dr. Maria Montessori’s research to guide how we serve learners at every stage of growth. We believe that one of the things that makes Montessori education so unique is that it looks at children’s growth in a very thoughtful way. Instead of just thinking about “grade levels,” Dr. Montessori noticed that children grow and change in six-year cycles. She called these cycles the Four Planes of Development .  Each plane has its own special qualities, big bursts of curiosity, and important steps toward independence. For example, the way a 3-year-old learns about the world is very different from the way a 9-year-old does, and Montessori gives us a framework to understand and support each stage.  What does this mean for families? It means that Montessori schools like CM are designed to meet children where they are developmentally, not just academically.   If you have more than one child, you might see how their needs can look totally different even if they’re close in age. This is exactly what the Four Planes of Development help us understand. At CM, the Four Planes of Development are not just an idea. We’ve built our learning environments around them.  While all our studio spaces feature soft seating areas, learners in Early Ed benefit from child-sized furniture while Teen learners use more adult spaces.  Our youngest learners work in studios with child-sized furniture, open shelves, and hands-on materials designed for independence. Our elementary learners work in more group-centered spaces and lounge areas that encourage collaboration, and teen learners have multiple opportunities to work in the community through service projects and internships. Every stage has its own needs, and our environments are designed from the ground up to meet them.   Early Education learners (ages 3-6) and Islands  learners (ages 12-14) both spend time learning about food preparation and cooking, but the tasks they practice and tools they use are specific to their age and development.  Below you can find a few simple resources for more information about the Four Planes of Development. You can scroll through the slide deck to learn more about each plane as well as environments that support learning in each plane. You might even recognize some of the things you’ve seen in your child’s studio here at CM! Slide Deck from Public Montessori in Action Handout: Montessori Four Planes of Development Handout: Role of the Adult: Supporting 4 Planes at Home

Thank you to everyone who participated in our 2025-26 Volunteer/Substitute Workshop in person on August 28, 2025!  To be eligible for subbing or volunteering for going out trips this school year, currently enrolled families must complete the workshop and the attached questionnaire, including a background check. This requirement also applies to Early Ed families who wish to observe at the window.  Even if you’ve subbed before, attending each year ensures you stay updated on the latest procedures. Remember, you'll always assist another teacher in the studio. For those unable to attend in person, we’ve provided the workshop video and key materials. These include: Presentation PDF  - Follow along with the video Communications Hints Handout Resources to Support Montessori Parenting Early Ed Adult Commitments Elementary Adult Commitments Adolescent Adult Commitments Community Montessori Glossary Please review the video and complete this questionnaire . After submission, it could take a few weeks to complete your background check before you will be added to our substitute/volunteer pool. Please note that completing these steps are required before you come in to observe your child in the early education program. If you signed up to be a substitute, our staff substitute coordinator, Tracy Pickman-Yates, will contact you once all your steps are completed.  We sincerely appreciate your support and involvement in our school community!

Thank you to all our families who were able to attend our New Family Orientation on Tuesday!  Each year we host New Family Orientation for newly enrolled families at Community Montessori. This in-person event is a great opportunity to learn more about our values, the school culture, and Montessori philosophy.  For families unable to attend, we look forward to meeting with you soon, hopefully at our upcoming   Sub/Volunteer Workshop  (for currently enrolled families) on August 28 at 5pm.  Download the slideshow below to follow along with the video presentation and access links to the materials mentioned in the conversation. New Family Orientation Slides

Check out this amazing video (Thank you Michael Sylvester!) with the song “Send Me on My Way" by Rusted Root.

At Community Montessori, our commitment to nurturing lifelong learners extends well beyond the early years.  Enter "The Woods," our dynamic high school program that redefines education for teens aged 14 to 18. Our teens program offers a unique and transformative educational experience that goes beyond traditional high school curricula. Grounded in the principles of Montessori pedagogy, our program is designed to cultivate independent, responsible, and environmentally conscious young adults. Rooted in Nature, Thriving Together   Our multi-age Woods studios, named after native tree species like Sequoia, Oak, Sycamore, and Cypress, embody the essence of Montessori education. Here, adolescents aged 14-18 (grades 9-12) come together to learn, collaborate, and grow. A new perspective on adolescence is fostered within our community, where mutual respect between adults and adolescents forms the foundation of our educational philosophy. We believe that everyone has something to teach and something to learn, creating an atmosphere of collaboration and growth. Woods’ Advisors   At CM, our high school advisors serve as mentors, guiding teens on their unique, individual paths of discovery and growth. With a focus on self-directed learning and personal responsibility, we empower teens to become active participants in their own education and beyond. Throughout their journey at Community Montessori, teens engage in a variety of experiences and opportunities aimed at preparing them for life beyond our school walls. From 9th and 10th grade, where they explore models of possibility and develop foundational skills, to 11th and 12th grade, where they embark on internships, college exploration, and career development, our teens are guided towards valorization and equipped with essential life skills. Cultivating Creativity & Entrepreneurial Spirit Through Creativity Inc., our teens unleash their artistic talents, from theatre productions by the CM Players to stunning works of art in painting, design, ceramics, and more. Our biannual Creativity Showcases celebrate their creativity and provide a platform for performances and exhibitions. Creativity Inc. plays a central role in our program, offering avenues for artistic expression and entrepreneurship. Our CM Players showcase their talents through theatrical productions, while other groups create works of art in various mediums. Entrepreneurial ventures like the Cosmic Café instill invaluable skills in responsibility, time management, and financial literacy, enriching both their learning experiences and our vibrant school community. Exploring Beyond Academics   Every Friday, our teens embark on Fitness Fridays, prioritizing holistic well-being through engaging activities, be it yoga, collaborative sports, or long walks through the surrounding neighborhoods and nearby park. Many also dive into real-world experiences through internships, forging pathways to future success beyond graduation. Celebrating Achievements   Big History marks the culmination of our teens' academic journey, showcasing their projects and senior capstones to family and friends. This grand event reflects their growth, achievements, and aspirations as they prepare to step into adulthood. At the heart of our teens program are the outcomes we aim to achieve for our graduates. Cognitive, social, moral, and emotional development are all integral components of our curriculum. Learners are encouraged to think critically, collaborate effectively, and advocate for themselves and others. They develop a strong sense of moral integrity and emotional resilience, feeling empowered to effect personal and social change. Ultimately, our goal is to nurture the whole child, fostering a sense of joy, purpose, and connection to humanity and the larger universe story. Through our holistic approach to education, we strive to prepare our teens to become compassionate, responsible, and environmentally conscious citizens of the world. Accelerating Futures With opportunities for dual credits and hands-on learning, our graduates leave CM equipped with college credits and real-world readiness. Our unique approach to education prepares them not just for academic success but for life beyond the bounds of school. Our teens benefit from a robust internship program, a highlight frequently praised by our alumni. Many spend Fridays off-campus, gaining real-world experience in fields they are passionate about. We encourage them to pursue internships aligned with their interests and also facilitate connections with businesses owned by school families.  In addition, our dual enrollment program allows learners to earn college credits while still in high school, giving them a head start on their higher education journey. The graduating class of 2024 had four teens who completed the Indiana College Core certificate, which provides a set of general education college credits that are transferable to all Indiana public colleges and universities. This certificate enables learners to start college with a substantial number of credits already earned, saving time and money while easing the transition to higher education.  Our unique "seminars" replace traditional class periods, offering focused studies in subjects like writing, math, health and wellness, interpersonal relationships, critical thinking, and history. These seminars, which include both required courses and electives, allow teens to delve deeply into topics of interest and importance, fostering a comprehensive and personalized educational experience. Prioritizing Lifelong Wellness As a reflective community, we continuously strive to improve and adapt our practices for the benefit of all learners. Our holistic approach ensures that we are always evolving to meet the needs of our learners, from young children to adolescents.  At the end of the 2023-2024 school year, we announced our Tier 2 Teen Wellness Initiative, building upon our existing foundational wellness goals and agreements already in place. This comprehensive program is designed to enhance the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of our teens. In response to growing concerns about teen mental health identified during one-on-one meetings, coursework, and fitness activities, this initiative introduces new programs to support teen goals such as more outdoor activities, consistent hydration, muscle building, and improved evening routines. You can read more about the multi-tiered Wellness Initiative here . Beginning with the 2024-2025 school year, teens will keep their smartphones in pouches (learn more about the Yondr pouch here ) during the school day to eliminate distractions from social media and constant connectivity, fostering better focus on education and interpersonal interactions. Talk/text-only phones are allowed to remain out of the pouches, and will stay in backpacks during the day. You can learn more about this growing movement to address the effects of smartphones and social media on adolescents by watching this WDRB news story, featuring Community Montessori . All members of the CM community - be they teens or adults, parents or staff -  have commitments within this initiative, ensuring a collective and consistent effort towards better mental and emotional health. You can learn more by checking out our Electronics Etiquette , which is a part of our enrollment package. Join the Journey   Experience the transformative power of Montessori education firsthand. Join us for teen events throughout the year, such as our Creativity Showcases, Exhibitions, CM Players performances, Big History, and more. Together, let's continue to inspire curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning in our teens! Apply today  to enroll your teen in a truly unique learning environment, designed to prepare them for a successful life after high school, whether that be college, vocational schools, apprenticeships, joining the workforce, being self-employed, or any other path they choose to pursue.

At Community Montessori we’re committed to supporting the wellbeing of learners, and we’re excited to share some amazing updates to our mental health services! Our Courage Cabin, a dedicated space for mental health support on campus, has recently undergone renovations to expand and enhance accessibility. Additionally, we’re thrilled to share our new partnership with The Mind Nest, bringing even more in-person mental health services to learners beginning in February 2025.  To better serve learners, we have made several key updates to the physical Courage Cabin space. Within the renovated space, there is now more room to provide a comfortable, supportive environment for learners.  And for convenience, there is now a dedicated bathroom and waiting area for learners and staff to use before or after their time at the Courage Cabin. These improvements allow for more options and opportunities for learners while maintaining a safe, inviting, and functional space for mental health support. Take a look through the gallery images to see the new renovations. As part of this expansion, we’re excited to work with our new partner, The Mind Nest, a trusted practice dedicated to providing accessible mental health services. Beginning in February 2025, The Mind Nest will offer additional in-person support on campus, expanding the options available to learners. Current CM Families received a welcome letter from The Mind Nest with more details and information about signing up for available services.   We are grateful for the continued support of our community that makes it possible for us to provide these resources and services to learners on campus. And we’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact of these updates.   Current CM Families with questions or who would like more information about mental health services on campus, please visit this website  or reach out to the school. We’re so grateful to everyone in our community who prioritizes mental health and supports efforts to expand services available to learners.