Blog
In a world that often feels rushed and fragmented, Montessori education offers something rare: a place where children are truly seen. It is an approach built not just on academic achievement, but on the belief that education, real education, has the power to change the world. Maria Montessori developed her method in the early twentieth century, but her deepest conviction was not about reading or mathematics. It was about peace. She believed that if we want a more peaceful world, we must begin with the child. " Establishing lasting peace ," she wrote, " is the work of education ." In a Montessori classroom, peace is not simply a topic that is taught. It is something that is lived. Children of different ages work alongside one another, learning to collaborate rather than compete. They develop independence, not because they are left alone, but because they are trusted. They are given real work that matters, real choices that shape their day, and real consequences that teach them to think carefully about their actions. This freedom, however, is always balanced with responsibility. Children learn to care for their environment, to resolve conflicts with words, and to consider the needs of others as naturally as they consider their own. Grace and courtesy are woven into the fabric of every day, not as rules imposed from the outside, but as habits grown from the inside. Montessori also understood something profound about the child's relationship with the world itself. Through Cosmic Education, the sweeping story of the universe, the Earth, life, and human civilization, children come to see themselves not as isolated individuals, but as participants in something vast and interconnected. They learn that every living thing depends on every other, that the air we breathe was shaped by ancient organisms, that the words we speak carry the fingerprints of countless civilizations. This perspective cultivates humility, wonder, and a deep sense of responsibility toward the world and toward one another. What you will see today in our classrooms is a reflection of that vision. The quiet concentration, the purposeful movement, the children helping one another: these are not accidents. They are the fruits of an environment carefully prepared to bring out the best in each child. Montessori education does not promise to solve the world's problems. But it does promise to raise children who are capable of empathy, who know how to listen, who find meaning in contributing to something greater than themselves. And in that promise lies something quietly extraordinary: the possibility that the children in these rooms might one day help build the more peaceful world we are all hoping for.
An Afternoon in Elementary is a wonderful opportunity for preschool and Kindergarten families to experience the Montessori Elementary environment and learn more about this exciting next step in their child's journey. This event is designed to help parents understand how Montessori Elementary builds naturally upon the foundation established in the primary years. In Elementary, children continue to grow as independent, confident learners while engaging with big ideas in math, language, science, and cultural studies through hands-on materials, collaborative work, and guided exploration. This year, our An afternoon in Elementary event was again a great success, bringing together children and their parents for a variety of engaging activities. These activities were led by Elementary students, with the support and supervision of Elementary staff and parent volunteers. The participants enjoyed the wonderful freshly baked French bread, explored the wonders of magnetism through experiments, and discovered a love of botany at the gardening and pot-decorating stations. There was great excitement during the math relay and while sewing geometric shapes. In Elementary, we also care for the health of both mind and body, which was reflected in the sports relay station. Creativity shone through our arts and crafts and face-painting stations. It was gratifying to see our Elementary students confidently engage with the younger students with empathy and warmth, guiding them through each activity and sharing their enthusiasm throughout the event. Elementary parent ambassadors were essential to the event's success. They warmly welcomed Primary families, shared information about our Elementary Montessori program, answered questions, and guided children between activity stations. Their support of the Elementary teachers helped create a smooth, welcoming, and engaging experience for all. We know that transitioning to Elementary can bring questions about readiness, independence, and academic expectations. An Afternoon in Elementary offers a space to see how children are supported socially, emotionally, and academically, and how the Elementary environment nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning. We want to extend a sincere thank you to our community for participating in the Afternoon in Elementary event . Their curiosity, enthusiasm, and joy made the event truly special. Warmly, Wellington Pontes-Filho Elementary Program Director
At The Renaissance International School (TRIS), we understand that education is not confined to the classroom. According to the Montessori philosophy, learning continues at home, in the everyday environments we create for our children. A carefully prepared home space can foster not only academic growth, but also independence, focus, and a lifelong love of learning. Dr. Maria Montessori emphasized that the environment plays a crucial role in a child’s development, famously stating, “The child builds himself through his environment.” This belief lies at the heart of our approach, both in school and at home. The way we organize a child’s space—its lighting, order, accessibility, and tone—can empower them to explore, concentrate, and develop confidence in their abilities. With this in mind, we offer practical suggestions for creating a Montessori-aligned workspace in your home that encourages your child to thrive. First and foremost, it is essential to select a well-lit area for your child’s learning activities. Natural light, preferably from a nearby window, supports alertness and a positive mood, helping children remain engaged with their tasks. If natural light is not available, soft and warm task lighting is a suitable alternative. Bright, inviting spaces reduce eye strain and create an atmosphere that promotes curiosity and attention. Equally important is choosing a suitable workspace that is consistent and appropriately sized. A child-sized table or desk provides a clear physical boundary for learning and helps establish a routine. Involving your child in selecting or decorating their space can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility. Even a simple arrangement—a small table, a chair, a mat, and a tray of supplies—can signal that this is their special place to work and learn. To encourage deep concentration, it is crucial to minimize distractions in the work area. Montessori classrooms are intentionally calm and uncluttered, and this same principle should guide the setup at home. Keep the learning space free from distractions such as toys, loud noises, and screens during focused work time. A quiet, orderly environment supports what Montessori described as “normalization”—a state in which a child finds satisfaction and joy in meaningful work. Some families find it helpful to use visual cues, such as a “quiet time” sign, to indicate when the space is reserved for focused activities. Comfort should not be overlooked. Providing an ergonomic chair suited to your child’s height supports proper posture, allowing them to concentrate without physical strain. Ideally, your child’s feet should rest flat on the floor or a footrest, and their arms should comfortably reach the table surface. This small but essential adjustment can improve stamina and engagement during work sessions. In line with the Montessori emphasis on order and independence , children should be encouraged to maintain a tidy and organized workspace. Habits such as putting away materials after use, keeping only necessary items on the desk, and labeling work with their name and date not only create a sense of order but also foster responsibility and pride. A simple system—such as a tray for current work and a basket for completed tasks—can help children manage their materials effectively. Accessibility is another key element of the Montessori environment. Storage solutions should be within the child’s reach, allowing them to retrieve and return their materials independently. This could include low shelves, labeled bins, file folders, or personal cubbies. The goal is to create an environment that is self-managing for the child, thereby reducing the need for adult intervention and increasing the child’s autonomy. Additionally, families may consider incorporating a small movement or break area into the learning space. In Montessori classrooms, children are free to move about and take breaks as needed, respecting their natural rhythms and promoting self-regulation. At home, a simple rug for stretching, a corner with a few books, or a designated space for taking short water or movement breaks can offer moments of calm and renewal, helping to prevent frustration or fatigue during more extended periods of study. It is important to recognize that each family’s situation is unique. Not every home has the same amount of space or resources, and that’s perfectly okay. The suggestions offered here are not about creating a perfect space, but rather about making thoughtful adjustments—however small—that respect your child’s developmental needs. Even one dedicated shelf, a basket for supplies, or a quiet corner can go a long way toward supporting your child’s ability to concentrate and feel confident in their learning journey. As Maria Montessori once said, “The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.” By observing your child’s behavior and interests, you can begin to understand what kind of environment best supports their learning and development. What helps them feel calm and capable? What sparks their curiosity and creativity? Start with those observations, and let them guide your decisions. With appreciation, Wellington Pontes-Filho
A Winter Evening Filled with Music and Community
This year we are beginning a series of lunchtime virtual sessions for Parent Education. Once a month we'll invite a host from our knowledgeable TRIS staff to present on a topic related to our school philosophies. Our first session was held in September and was hosted by our Head of School, Renee Hites.
Exploring the Bay Area: A One-of-a-Kind Summer Camp Adventure Summer is a time for discovery, and at Exploring the Bay Area, our elementary Montessori students experienced a week like no other. Guided by the ever-enthusiastic wilderness guide and Montessori Elementary instructor, Nathalie Hites, the camp transformed each day into a journey across the diverse and stunning landscapes of the Bay Area. From riding buses and BART to catching the Ferry, students didn't just learn about the place they live — they lived it. Each day brought new ecosystems, unforgettable views, and hands-on experiences that made learning an exciting adventure. Monday: From Woodlands to Waves Students kicked off the week with a deep dive into the natural treasures, exploring oak woodlands, sand dunes, and the stunning ocean beaches — all in a single day! It was a perfect introduction to the varied ecosystems right in San Francisco’s backyard. Tuesday: Scaling Mt. Diablo Their journey continued with a trip east to Mt. Diablo, where students learned about the chaparral, grasslands, and fascinating local geology. A highlight of the day was climbing through Rock City, where students could physically interact with the landscape they were learning about. It was both educational and exhilarating! Wednesday: Wetlands and Water Fun at Brannan Island Midweek took them to Brannan Island State Recreation Area, where students explored the vital role of wetlands in our environment. The warm weather also provided a perfect excuse to cool off — and yes, a dip in the water was part of the day's fun. Thursday: Into the Redwoods at Muir Woods Students explored the awe-inspiring Muir Woods, home to the towering redwoods that define Northern California. Walking beneath the canopy, students were immersed in the unique ecosystem of the redwood forest — an experience that inspired both wonder and curiosity. Friday -Wonders at the Cull Canyon To wrap up our week, students headed to Cull Canyon, where they observed more oak woodlands and explored a riparian corridor — a lush, biodiverse area along the creek. And yes, the week ended the way it began: with sunshine, laughter, and a refreshing swim! Exploring the Bay Area wasn’t just about field trips — it was about connecting students to their environment, deepening their appreciation for nature, and fostering independence through real-world exploration. Whether hiking, swimming, or simply observing a new ecosystem, our students walked away with more than knowledge — they gained a sense of place and belonging in the world around them. Stay tuned for more updates from our Montessori adventures — and until then, keep exploring!
We're so excited for our upcoming spring concert, where we'll explore the incredible beauty of nature in all its forms! Our vision for this performance is to celebrate various aspects of the natural world, from animals and water to vibrant flowers, breathtaking landscapes, and captivating weather. The students will perform "J'ai vu le Loup" (I Saw The Wolf), a lively French tune about animals playfully dancing and laughing. Its catchy melody and humorous lyrics, featuring wolves, foxes, and hares engaging in human-like antics, make it a favorite among our students to perform. Be ready to be transported to the serene Scottish hills with "Loch Lomond." This beautiful piece evokes images of the famous lake and its rolling landscapes, telling a touching story of longing and natural splendor. A charming Chinese folk song celebrating the sweet, fragrant jasmine flower, "Mo Li Hua" will also be featured. The students enjoy mimicking a jasmine bloom with their hands as they sing this beautiful melody. We're also incredibly proud to debut an original piece created by our talented students: "Power of the Night." This semester, they've worked diligently, making key decisions on the time signature, key, and tempo. I developed a chord progression, and the students brainstormed lyrics inspired by winter and its unique weather. Through a collaborative process of refining lyrics and melodies, "Power of the Night" came to life, exploring themes of friendship, thunderstorms, and even dragons! We can't wait to share these wonderful musical stories and more with our community at the spring concert! Jade Woo Kodály Vocal Instructor - Elementary
At TRIS, we believe that art education is more than just creating pretty pictures. It’s a powerful tool for cognitive and emotional development. Students build self-esteem, develop self-control, and strengthen their problem-solving skills through individual art projects. Our lessons also incorporate thoughtfully curated art history, organized by timeline and selected to highlight significant works and movements.
Our school community was thrilled to experience the "Silent Journey," a unique and insightful event showcasing the TRIS Montessori curriculum. This school year, the Silent Journey focused on the Trilingual Immersion Program we offer at The Renaissance International School. The Preschool/Kindergarten Programs offer Spanish or French and English immersion, and the Elementary Program offers Spanish, French, and English immersion with native-speaking Montessori guides. Why the Silent Journey? The Silent Journey isn't just a walkthrough; it's a carefully curated experience for parents that maps out a Montessori curriculum for children aged two to twelve and explains the Montessori philosophy and methodology behind the careful, child-centric, developmentally appropriate, and systematic approach to learning. The Silent Journey Experience - The Big Picture To The Nitty Gritty! The Silent Journey offered an opportunity to: Strengthen the school-home partnership: A better understanding of the curriculum and specific methodologies used in the classroom supports a child's learning journey and strengthens the essential partnership between home and school. Experiencing the Learning Continuum: Parents walked through our classrooms, observing the sequential progression of our language curriculum from Toddlers (ages 2-3) to Elementary (ages 6-12). This presentation allowed them to see the holistic development of language skills across all levels and how language studies intertwine with all subject areas in the Montessori classroom. Exploring Our Trilingual Immersion: Our program is built on the science of reading, emphasizing phonics and phonemic awareness. Parents could see how we cultivate these skills in our youngest learners. They also witnessed our unique approach to phonemic awareness, grammar, and parsing across English, French, and Spanish. Witness the Montessori Method in Action: Parents observed how Montessori materials and principles work together in learning. They discovered the thoughtfulness and intentionality behind the Montessori Method. This included the vast array of materials for all language study components such as phonology, syntax, semantics, etc., how Montessori guides give lessons to introduce, reinforce, and retain concepts, and the design of materials and how they foster independence, promote self-directed learning, and nurture a love of exploration. They saw materials and methodologies that empowered their children to learn and practice concepts independently and at their own pace, becoming active drivers of their learning. From Observer to Participant - Stepping into a Montessori Student's World : After their silent observation, parents received lessons from our Montessori guides and enjoyed the hands-on experience of being a Montessori student. Understanding the Form and Function of Montessori Materials: Parents better understood the Montessori Language materials and how they enable a deep conceptual understanding of study areas. Overall, the Silent Journey experience was a great success and helped parents gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of the Montessori Method, with many parents remarking, " I wish I had learned the Montessori way! "
Reading is often described as a gateway to new worlds, a bridge to understanding, and a sanctuary for the mind. Its benefits are myriad and go far beyond simple entertainment. Books provide a unique escape from reality. One can spend an entire afternoon climbing the Citadel with Rudi Matt , traveling through space and time with Meg Murray , or befriending a gorilla named Ivan . Books also have the ability to help develop empathy. By stepping into the shoes of diverse characters, readers can experience situations and perspectives that differ from their own. They can experience the ups and downs of moving from a Japanese community in Iowa to the deep south of Georgia , learn how it feels to have a stutter , or see what it is like to adopt an orphaned gosling . Reading also provides us with a way to gain more information about history, science, or really any human knowledge. Through reading, we can learn about World War II , extraordinary women who have contributed to society, and so much more. It is all the more concerning that recently a series of articles have come out discussing the concern among university professors about the decline of reading levels among their students. Professors across the board are finding that their students are unable to engage in the type of literature or academic reading that was once expected, even ten years ago. These articles point to social media usage, shortened attention spans, and high schools that do not ask their students to read entire books, as some of the reasons for the changes that are being seen. It is clearly a complex topic, and it is unlikely that there is one factor that is to blame, however, the topic has made me reflect on the importance of cultivating a reading culture and habit from a young age. Being an avid reader has long-term benefits. It is one of the avenues that allows humans to be life-long learners. Building the skills to concentrate, focus, and understand different types of books is critical to being able to access information in the world. We want our students to have the skills and knowledge to seek out information based on their interests and to always be curious about the world around them. In the long-term, reading also helps keep the brain engaged and active. As people age it helps stave off cognitive decline. Having built that strong foundation It is not just the act of reading which is important however, but what children are reading that is of equal importance. Choosing high quality books and content, however, is not always easy. What to look for when choosing books for your children Finding the right book for your child, at any reading level, can be a challenge. This is particularly true if they are resistant to reading independently (once they have reached a certain fluency level). There can be a temptation to therefore allow them to read any children’s literature out there - in fact, this is often recommended by librarians and other educators. We at TRIS, however, feel that there are some important factors that one must consider when choosing what literature to expose your child to. Here are some factors that we think are important as you choose books for your child: Values and Messaging One of the most important aspects of choosing literature for children is identifying what values and messaging are found in books. Think about what values and behaviors you would like to see your child embrace. If kindness and respect are important to you, be sure to find books in which respect and kindness are highlighted - not the opposite. Many children’s books depict “humorous” scenarios in which children are mean to each other, put each other down, or make jokes at the expense of others. While this may seem harmless, these messages impact your child and very often one will start to see a change in your child’s behavior. Language and Vocabulary It is important to trust that your child is able to understand and comprehend sophisticated language and vocabulary. Exposing them to sophisticated language from a young age is important. Believe that your children are capable of understanding challenging books. Read aloud with them frequently so that you can introduce them to words that on their own, they may not yet be able to understand. Style/Genre Children learn an immense amount from the books they read. Time and time again we see that strong writers are often avid readers. They are able to pick up style, tone and nuances of language when they read a variety of books. This is why it is so important that children are exposed to a wide variety of genres. It is important that they learn how to read more formal writing, as well as enjoy more informal writing. Being exposed to a large variety of genres opens the doors to their learning and adds to their arsenal of knowledge that they can then access later in life. Grammar There has been a rise in books geared toward early to mid readers in which the grammar is incorrect. Every time a child reads a book, they are building their knowledge about language. If they are being exposed to incorrect grammar, that is what they will learn and it will show up in their writing. Choose books that follow correct grammar and models desired writing. There are many other factors that may come into play when choosing a book for your child (this is whether they are reading it themselves or whether you are reading it with them) but the four criteria above are a good place to start. https://slate.com/human-interest/2024/02/literacy-crisis-reading-comprehension-college.html https://www.teenvogue.com/story/college-students-not-reading https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2024/11/the-elite-college-students-who-cant-read-books/679945/ Renée Hites Head of School The Renaissance International School