Casa
Preschool - Kindergarten (JK & SK)
The Casa learning community embraces an augmented and flexible approach to the Montessori method. This holistic and inclusive pedagogical approach supports all learners in meeting them where they are and meaningfully supports them in where they are going. Balancing the scientifically-researched Montessori materials, children’s interests, and opportunities for the co-construction of knowledge. Casa learners learn through doing and are actively involved in selecting challenging work that is developmentally aligned in a supportive and loving environment.
The prepared environment provides familiarity and consistency for the learners across the curriculum areas, including language, math, sensorial, culture, sciences, practical life, social-emotional learning, and the arts. Children are actively engaged in learning French as a second language. There is a balance of independent work, small and large group learning, and peer-to-peer support. The educator acts as a guide, mindful of each learner's holistic development. This is supported by access to nature and the community at large. The Casa program enables each child to be an independent and conscientious learner who is connected to a culture of community, balancing freedom with responsibility in a nurturing environment.
"Education is a natural process carried out by the child and is not acquired by listening to words but by experiences in the environment."
-Maria Montessori
Whole School Study
Each year, the learning community at CMCS selects an area of study that helps guide our learning. This culminates in an Open House during the second week of March, during which our current families and the greater community can come and explore what we have learned! The 2023/2024 Whole School Study is Space and the Solar System. Have a peek at the Casa Learning Community set-up for the big day!
The kids have been working on various aspects of our galaxy, including its type and parts. They have created a Solar System display on our large bulletin board, showcasing all the planets. Additionally, there are smaller bulletin boards with mini units that have been discussed. Throughout the room, there are three boards with questions about the topic that you can ask our Casa students (the answers will be on the reverse). Various cultural activities are available for the kids to demonstrate their abilities, and displays of their work adorn the walls. There are crafts for the children to take home as they are leaving as a memento of their learning experience.