Bucks County Montessori Charter School Home

Dear BCMCS Parents, 

 

As we head into March, it seems the 'lamb' has finally arrived. After the relentless weather we endured in February, it’s safe to say the 'lion' has earned a rest—let’s hope it stays that way.

 

In continued monthly segments to better understand Montessori education, the quote that we will dissect this month is a portion of the one that we have within our website banner, that being “ … (the teacher may) help the child to do it alone (but should) never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed.” This quote captures the essence of ‘freedom within limits’ and the ‘delicate balance’ between guidance and independence. The first part of the quote—helping the child do it alone—highlights the true role of an educator. Instead of doing the work for the child, the teacher should, instead, act as a "scaffolder." Through ‘preparation,’ teachers ought to first provide the right tools (insets to understand fractions, impressionistic charts to understand evolution of life, etc.). Then would come the ‘demonstration’ phase, where techniques are slowly and clearly fostered. At some point after that would come the ‘withdrawal,’ as once the child understands the process, the teacher must step back and allow the child to move through the learning unassisted. The danger of over-assistance [the second part—never help a child at which he feels he can succeed] is a warning against learned helplessness. When we, as adults, intervene in a task a child believes they can handle, we inadvertently send discouraging concepts related to capability, rapidity and/or completion.  It is when a child is deeply engaged in a task, that they feel they can conquer, that they enter into the state of concentration. Interrupting that flow to "fix" a mistake, or ‘speed’ things up, or to define ‘accomplishment’ breaks this vital, internal development.

 

Later on this month we will be holding our enrollment lottery, welcoming interest from over 300 prospective students. While this demand speaks to our school’s accomplishments, know that we never consider our mission 'complete.' We are dedicated to persevering in our Montessori principles and leading the way in educational innovation, ensuring we grow alongside the changing needs of our students. As always, please remember to check our website and school calendar regularly, as this month is packed with clubs, a PTO fundraiser, school events, and oddly scheduled days off. Also, a quick reminder, due to low participation, we are no longer offering a hot lunch option on Thursdays.

 

Take Care, and until next month . . .           ~Mr. Brian Long