Archives: NEWS
Free Back to School Teacher Wellness Webinar!
The Power of Breath and Laughter for Teachers and Children in the Classroom
September 25, 2023
Featured Career Opportunity – Centennial Montessori School
Centennial Montessori School is an established AMI-recognized school in the San Francisco Bay Area, 20 miles south of San Francisco. We are excited to welcome a new AMI Guide for our second Montessori Elementary classroom serving children from six to twelve years old for the
Read More +August 2023 E-Newsletter
Application for AMI Recognition Status
AMI/USA administers the AMI Recognition Program for Montessori schools in the USA. Among the many benefits of AMI Recognition, the most significant is the association with
Read More +Application for AMI Recognition Status opens August 1, 2023!
AMI/USA provides schools that wish to offer an authentic Montessori program with a set of internationally recognized standards of quality. Programs meeting these standards apply annually for AMI Recognition and a certificate is issued which indicates that they meet these criteria. AMI Standards maintain the
Read More +July 2023 E-Newsletter
June 2023 E-Newsletter
The 29th International Montessori Congress: 2-5 August 2023
The goal of The 29th International Montessori Congress is to raise awareness and understanding of Montessori education as a global influence in our rapidly changing world. The conference theme, “Education for a New World”, promises to inspire all delegates to appreciate the significance of their work and to return
Read More +AMI/USA is Hiring! Pedagogical Director of Consultation and Coaching
Association Montessori International of the United States (AMI/USA) is one of the premier Montessori associations in the USA. We seek an expert Montessorian to serve as our Pedagogical Director of Consultation and Coaching (PDCC) to join our leadership team. This is a hands-on leadership role that support the organization’s pedagogy and
Read More +AMI/USA Journal – Spring 2023
Special thank you goes to our contributors: Roberto German @multiculturalclassroom, Anna Volokhova @montessori.ukraine, Brook LaFloe (Turtle Mountain Chippewa) @niniijaanis1of1s, Janice LaFloe (Turtle Mountain Chippewa) @Montessori American Indian Childcare Center, Amelia Sherwood @sankofalearningcenter, Marina Saenz @montessorioftheoppressed, and first-time youth contributor, Katya Kukin from @butlermontessorischool!
Read More +
May 2023 E-Newsletter
Teacher Shortage Crisis Townhall Discussion: Visa Challenges to Teach Montessori in the U.S.
AMI/USA is Hiring! Sr. Director of Finance
Association Montessori International of the United States (AMI/USA) seeks an experienced Sr. Director of Finance (SDoF) to join our leadership team. This is a hands-on leadership role that support the organization’s operations and financial functions. Oversees fiscal planning, business operations, and human resource functions. The SDoF is responsible for supporting and executing
Read More +Celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander Leadership
Celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander Leadership
By Daisy Han
Close your eyes and think about three Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) leaders.
Who do you think of? How long did it take? Can you name three leaders you personally know? In what ways have
Read More +AMI Administrators Certificate Course Registration is Live!
Sponsored by AMI/USA
AMI/USA is proud to sponsor the AMI Administrators Certificate Course in July of 2023 in Columbia, MD. This course is designed for new and veteran Montessori school administrators looking to deepen their understanding of school leadership within a Montessori context.
Click here for more Read More +
2023 Administrators Retreat Registration is Live
AMI/USA is happy to announce the Summer 2023 Administrators Retreat “Leading Amid Today’s Challenges” this July 13-16 in Columbia, MD. We are excited to have Whole School Leadership Institute (WSLI) partner with us to co-sponsor this year’s retreat.
We are thrilled to host two dynamic keynote speakers, Dr. Pamela Taylor and Dr. Marc Frankel who
Read More +Earth Day 2023
This Earth Day, we are featuring submission from students at Butler Montessori. After listening to their presentation at the 2023 Montessori Experience: Refresher Courses & More, we are proud to showcase these youth who are moving from rhetoric to action.
Save The Earth Project (STEP) Our Story – Our Future
Read More +
My Poetic Journey
From poets.org: “The 2023 poster was designed by Marc Brown, creator of the popular Arthur book and PBS television series.” “Inaugurated by the Academy of American Poets in 1996, National Poetry Month is now held every April, when schools, publishers, libraries, booksellers, Read More +
April 2023 E-Newsletter
MEx24 Presentation Proposals Open
In preparation for the 2024 Montessori Experience in Dallas/Addison, Texas, February 16 – 19, 2024, we are receiving presentation proposals for consideration.
Workshops will be held Friday, February 16 and Monday, February 20.
The theme for the 2024 Montessori Experience is forthcoming.
Submissions should be emailed to AMI/USA Events Director and should include:
Dr. Ayize Sabater’s Speech at the 2023 MMUN
Dr. Ayize Sabater (he/him) gave the opening keynote at the Montessori Model United Nations (@montessori_mun) in New York on March 15, 2023.
His remarks were
Read More +April 2023 Virtual Events
2024 Montessori Experience Call For Presentations Proposals
In preparation for the 2024 Montessori Experience: Refresher Courses and More! in Dallas/Addison Texas, February 16 – 19, 2024, we are receiving presentation proposals for consideration.
Workshops will be held Friday, February 16 and Monday, February 20.
The theme “Educating for Peace” is inspired by Dr. Maria Montessori’s book Read More +
U40: Montessori for the Future Summit 2023
APPLY HERE!
The American Montessori Society (AMS) and Association Montessori International / United States of America (AMI/USA) are thrilled to announce the U40: Montessori for the Future Summit.
Join a diverse cohort of Montessori educators under 40
Read More +Women’s Storytelling: My Balm in Gilead
Prelude
We are at the end of the celebration of Women’s History Month. The National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA), which spearheaded the movement for March being declared National Women’s History Month, has offered the theme for 2023, “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.”(NWHA) Earlier
Read More +Farmworker Awareness Week in the Montessori Environment
Farmworker Awareness Week in the Montessori Environment
March 25-31, 2023
By: Marina Sáenz, M.Ed.
Farmworker History in the Settler-Colonial United States
The last week in March is National Farmworker Awareness Week. It is “a week of action for students and community
Read More +March 2023 E-Newsletter
#MEx23 Press Release
Photograph above by: Jill Fannon Photography
Click here for a pdf version of our Press Release
The 2023 Montessori Experience: Refresher Courses and More Unites Over 930 Educators from Across the Country
February 28, 2023
The 2023 Montessori Experience: Refresher Courses and More took place at the
Read More +JEDI Spring Series
SESSION 2: Exploring Gender Expansiveness in the Montessori Environment
March 20, 2023 at 7 pm EST
Transgender Visibility Day is on March 31, 2023. As a prelude to this day of recognition, our goal at AMI/USA is to explore gender expansiveness in Montessori settings. Please join us as Sara Bloomberg moderates an open discussion
Read More +In Appreciation of Phyllis Pottish-Lewis
In Appreciation of Phyllis Pottish-Lewis
Phyllis Pottish-Lewis is a woman of many passions – Oaxacan carved wooden figures, storytelling, octopuses, her family, a well-turned phrase, traveling to parts unknown, artisan jewelry, dear friends, certain chocolate cookies…and of course, children. It is her unwavering dedication to Montessori education that
Read More +Women’s History Month 2023
Association of Montessori International/USA
Women’s History Month
March 1- March 31, 2023
by Sheri Bishop, M.Ed
The National Women’s History Alliance, which spearheaded the movement for March being declared National Women’s History Month, has announced the women’s history theme for 2023, “Celebrating Women Who Tell
Read More +How to Create Change When You Are Part of the System
I am not sure when I realized the “White Man” that civil rights leaders referred to meant “White People” collectively and “White supremacy”. I became aware that I, a White woman, was included in this group. I was embarrassingly late to this realization. It was even later when I became aware
Read More +AMI/USA 2023-2027 Strategic Plan
Click here to download:
the AMIUSA 2023-2027 Strategic Plan
Read More +
February 2023 E-Newsletter
Fireside Chats for School Funding
We will be posting resources for our Montessori community regarding school funding opportunities and corresponding videos.
Stay tuned for more and come back often!
Grant Opportunities:
January Grant Opportunities
February Grant Opportunities
March Grant Opportunities
Read More +2023 Montessori Experience Media Advisory
2023 Black History Month
BLK History Month
By: Nikki Giovanni
If Black History Month is not
viable then wind does not
carry the seeds and drop them
on fertile ground
rain does not
dampen
Read More +Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service – January 16, 2023
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service – January 16, 2023
On this day of service, the nation will honor the memory and tireless work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. On this day, and after it passes, all educators, from all backgrounds, will be well served by
Read More +The 2023 Montessori Experience: Refresher Courses and More Brochure
Hot off the (virtual) press. To see our schedule, session descriptions, presenters, and more, please download: 2023 Montessori Experience brochure.
Plan to join us in Baltimore at the Montessori Experience: Refresher Courses and More by registering here.
Read More +January 2023 E-Newsletter
January Events You Don’t Want to Miss
We’re starting our year off right with these offerings for you! Click on each graphic below for more.
In Memoriam Tribute: Martha Urioste
Dr. Martha Urioste
October 2, 1937 – December 8, 2022
Community,
With a heavy heart we announce the passing of Dr. Martha Urioste. She transitioned from this world Thursday, December 8, 2022. Dr. Martha was one of the first persons to bring Montessori to the public sector in Colorado.
Read More +December 2022 E-Newsletter
Announcing the 2023 Montessori Experience Presenters
We are excited to announce over 40 presenters for this year’s Montessori Experience: Refresher Courses & More!
Learn more about our presenters by clicking here
Read More +November 2022 E-Newsletter
In Memoriam Tribute: Willa Mae Golden
Willa Mae Golden
October 10, 1938 – October 25, 2022
“Willa Mae Golden—inspired teacher and loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend—passed away on October 25, 2022, in Washington, DC. She was 84.”
This heartfelt opening can be found in the 11/9/22 life celebration obituary for Mama Golden, as I affectionately referred to
Read More +Gratitude for The National Day of Mourning

Gratitude for The National Day of Mourning
By: Siobhan Growing Elm Brown, Mashpee Wampanoag
As a member of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, my elders taught me that to be Wampanoag is to live in a state of gratitude. To me, walking in gratitude
Read More +The 2022 JEDI Series
Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Webinars
As our 2020 Racial Equity Statement declares, “We acknowledge that building and maintaining an inclusive, racially equitable culture will be never-ending and that ever-lasting transformation requires courage, persistence, unwavering commitment, and individual and collective accountability. We encourage all members, especially those
Read More +The 2023 AMI/USA Montessori Experience: Refresher Courses & More!
Announcing the 2023 AMI/USA Montessori Experience, Refresher Courses and More!
Join us in Baltimore, MD from February 17 – 20, 2023 for a weekend to focus on the Spiritual Preparation of the guide in service to all children. Each track and offering will provide a unique perspective on this
Read More +National Study of Montessori Teacher Dispositions: SOFA
Researchers want to hear from you!
A research study designed to learn more about what AMI Certified Montessori Teachers with students ages 3 – 6 years in the United States report regarding scientific observation for assessment as a disposition and as a disposition in action.
RESEARCH FLYER_National Study of Montessori Teacher Dispositions
Read More +October 2022 E-Newsletter
Exciting Study – Montessori for Neurodivergent Students
AMI/USA wants to understand Montessori teachers’ and administrators’ experiences with supporting students with developmental disabilities or delays. So, you are invited to participate in a research study & take a FREE online course on the Use and Implementation of the Ages and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ) in Montessori settings. Click the link
Read More +Beyond Land Acknowledgements
Indigenous Peoples Day 2022
How do we come to the circle? At AMI/USA we are intentional about how we hold space for our collective work. On this Indigenous Peoples Day, we recognize that we are on Indigenous land and give gratitude for the original stewards of the land. Moving beyond land acknowledgements
Read More +Lawrence Vincent Schaefer, In Memory
Friends,
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Lawrence Vincent Schaefer on September 29, 2022 at 91 years. A beloved member of the Montessori global community with a legacy that will be cherished and held close to heart by all who loved him. AMI/USA sends thoughts of compassion
Read More +Orange Shirt Day, Every Child Matters
Image and beadwork design by Tia Marie Pocknett©
Orange Shirt Day – September 30th
This summer, I had the opportunity to meet my biological family in Canada–my Mi’kmaq family. My homecoming was filled with a spectrum of
Read More +International Day of Peace
International Day of Peace, 2022
Peace Like A River: Inner Peace and the Prepared Environment
International Day of Peace is being observed today, September 21, 2022. This is the day that the United Nations (UN) invites all countries and people to honor cessation of hostilities during the day
Read More +September 2022 E-Newsletter
National Hispanic Heritage Month 2022
September 15th – October15, 2022
“Hispanic heritage holds an indelible place in the heart and soul of our Nation, and National Hispanic Heritage Month reminds us that the American identity is a fabric of diverse traditions and stories woven together. Since the beginning,
Read More +August 2022 E-Newsletter
July 2022 E-Newsletter
Juneteenth 2022: Educate, Celebrate, Activate
Whether it is Martin Luther King Day of Service, Memorial Day, Independence Day, or Veteran’s Day, behind most national recognition days lies a history of struggle, evidence of perseverance and courage, and most importantly, a story of resilience. The historic Juneteenth holiday, a commemoration of the end of slavery, is a
Read More +June 2022 E-Newsletter
Caribbean-American Heritage Month
June is Caribbean-American Heritage month. Over 13.4 million Americans claim Caribbean heritage. The thirteen Caribbean countries are all islands. (Operation World). About 90% of Caribbean-Americans come from five countries: Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago. “Caribbean immigrants have been contributing to the well-being of American society
Read More +Pride is More Than a Parade
Pride is More Than a Parade
By: Angela Ma
I want to share the joy of Pride–the elation of living and loving out loud, the color, and the unabashed queerness in the streets. I want to share the joy, I do, but it’s
May 2022 E-Newsletter
AMI/USA is Growing!
AMI/USA is growing! We are adding three brand-new positions to our team and are looking for qualified candidates to apply. Come join a dynamic team dedicated to advancing inclusive Montessori education in the United States. Click on the links below to review the job descriptions and instructions for applying. We look
Read More +April 2022 E-Newsletter
An Open Address and Collective Position Statement: Critical Race Theory
The undersigned Montessori organizations challenge the national, state, and local legislative policies and laws that serve to regulate, limit, and intentionally omit what is taught about an honest history of the United States of America, the roles that all citizens played in its development, and exploration and discussion of racism and
Read More +March 2022 E-Newsletter
Our Response to The New Yorker Article
In response to a March 3 article in The New Yorker entitled “The Miseducation of Maria Montessori,” our Executive Director, Dr. Ayize Sabater, submitted a response to the magazine for their consideration and publication. Here is a summary of our questions and concerns that were submitted:
How We Teach History is Just as Important as What We Teach A Word to Guides
Association of Montessori International/USA
Black History Month 2022
How We Teach History is Just as Important as What We Teach
A Word to Guides
Read More +AMI/USA Solicits Guest Essays on Topics of Equity and Inclusion
We are so grateful for the diverse skills, knowledge, cultures, and human experiences of the AMI/USA community. There are many talents and voices within our membership that can be amplified via AMI/USA platforms. We are extending an invitation to our members to collaborate with the AMI/USA team to pen statements for
Read More +February 2022 E-Newsletter
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of National Service: January 17, 2022
From the Desk of the Human Rights & Social Justice Advisor
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of National Service
January 17, 2022
“The Tranquilizing Drug of Gradualism”
Summer came, and the weather was beautiful. But the climate, the social climate of American life, erupted into lightning flashes, trembled with thunder, and vibrated to the relentless,
Read More +January 2022 E-Newsletter
AMI/USA Launches New Coaching Program
Coaching and mentoring offer effective support for high fidelity practice and teacher retention. Individualized growth paths, especially early in a teacher’s career, can make a significant difference in job performance and satisfaction. AMI/USA’s Coaching Program assists our schools in achieving excellence and stability. We have a pool
Read More +Guest Essay – International Human Rights Day
From the United Nations website:
“Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December — the day the United Nations General Assembly adopted, in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). The UDHR is a milestone document, which proclaims the inalienable rights that everyone is entitled to as a
Read More +December E-Newsletter
Thanksgiving – An Indigenous Perspective
On behalf of AMI/USA, I welcome Sinuda Kapalczynski as our guest writer during Indigenous Heritage Month. Please enjoy her eloquent and rich story about what we know as Thanksgiving. Sharing our stories helps us arrive at understanding and to create a shared human narrative. We are grateful for you, Sinuda!
– —
Read More +November 2021 E-Newsletter
Registration Now Open for The 2022 Montessori Experience!
Hispanic Heritage Month 2021 Spotlights
To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month 2021, we interviewed a few Latinx Montessorians to hear their unique perspectives on what the month means to them personally and how to respectfully and inclusively incorporate celebrations and reflections into the Montessori classroom. Click on the images below to read the full spotlights.
October 2021 E-Newsletter
Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2021: Moving Beyond Land Acknowledgments
From the Desk of the HRSJ Advisor
Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2021
Moving Beyond Land Acknowledgments
Click here to read.
Read More +September 2021 E-Newsletter
Fall 2021 Virtual Events for Administrators
Ready? Well, ready or not, another school year has already begun. As with the start of school years in the past, there are many things to grapple with in order to be prepared. Yet this school year’s readiness is particularly challenged by some complex matters. For one, the continuing and resurgent
Read More +August 2021 E-Newsletter
2021 AMI/USA JEDI Series
AMI/USA is excited to continue learning alongside our community through a series of webinars focusing on issues of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion through a Montessori lens. Listen, learn, share and connect with experts and peers as we work to make Montessori spaces more
Read More +July 2021 E-Newsletter
July 4th, 2021 Message
From the Executive Director’s Desk
– Guest Essay –
Sheri Bishop
AMI/USA Human Rights & Social Justice Advisor
The Truths are Self-Evident
On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence to dissolve the connection between Great Britain and the thirteen colonies declaring the “United Colonies of
Read More +June 2021 E-Newsletter
Call for Proposals
We are so grateful for the skills, knowledge and experience of the AMI/USA community. Your unique perspectives are valuable. We are extending our annual call for proposals differently this year. In addition to inviting submissions for The Montessori Experience, we are expanding this call on a rolling basis for
Read More +Equity Statement Forum – June 9, 2021
Click here to access the recording from this session!
Date : June 9, 2022
February 2021 E-Newsletter
March 2021 E-Newsletter
April 2021 E-Newsletter
May 2021 E-Newsletter
Memorial Day Blessings and 100th Tulsa Remembrance
From the Executive Director’s Desk
Memorial Day Blessings and 100th Tulsa Remembrance
As Executive Director, I am humbled to send blessings on behalf of AMI/USA to all of our nation’s fallen soldiers, on this Memorial Day.* Memorial Day is a time when many within our nation show gratitude and reverence
Read More +