The Montessori Experience:
Refresher Courses & More

Vital to your chosen career path is continued personal development; there isn’t a profession that does not demand regular updating and contact with experts in the field. AMI/USA endorses this commitment as well. Professional development workshops for teachers, heads of school, and classroom assistants are offered annually at The Montessori Experience: Refresher Courses & More held on Presidents’ Day weekend. This is an excellent way to examine current educational structures and strategies as well as delve deeper into your knowledge and understanding of Montessori pedagogy.

Over the years there have been numerous successful and influential speakers:

Ingrid Canady Executive Director of the State Education Resource Center (SERC)	Nia Seale Director of AMI Primary Training and Member of AMI Scientific Pedagogy Group.
Trisha Moquino Education Director Keres Children’s Learning Center	Tracey Cordero Director of the Indigenous Montessori Institute
Dr. Joyce E King Professor of Educational Policy Studies in the College of Education & Human Development at Georgia State University	Britt Hawthorne Anti-bias/Anti-racist teacher-educator, PBS Children’s Media and Education- Educator and Community Engagement: Anti-racist and Anti-bias Consultant and Advisor
Alice Waters Chef, author, activist and founder of Chez Panisse restaurant and the Edible Schoolyard Project	Dr. Tammy Pawloski Director, Center of Excellence to Prepare Teachers of Children of Poverty
Sergey Brin Co-founder of Google and Montessori alumnus	Sir Ken Robinson, Ph.D Creativity Expert
Daniel Pink Author of Drive and A Whole New Mind	Bob Pianta, Ph.D Dean of the Curry School of Education, University of Virginia

The Circle of Distinction

The Circle of Distinction acknowledges an individual’s lifelong dedication, inspiration, creativity, resilience and passion within the AMI/USA community. We share a sense of commitment to the continuation of Dr. Montessori’s work and there is deep appreciation for the efforts of every individual. The Circle of Distinction offers an opportunity to provide thanks to those whose exceptional personal and professional contribution deserves special recognition.

2020 Honorees
Joen Bettmann
Barbara Gordon
David Kahn
Molly O’Shaughnessy
Judi Orion
Phyllis Pottish-Lewis

2021 Montessori Mentors

One of the most often voiced praises for this annual gathering—which reaches over 1,200 participants—is the opportunity to connect with old friends, forge new relationships, and be supported by the presence of so many others who share a common goal. AMI/USA organizes this event in partnership with the Elementary Alumni Association (EAA).