I spent the last ten years without the title: Montessori Teacher. Those that know me, know that it is rare to have an in depth conversation with me without the subject turning to Montessori Philosophy and the value it has had for me, not only when I was a teacher but in the way I desire to treat others.

My most recent job adventure was a sales position. I went to call on a couple of my friends who had started their own Montessori school. During the visit, I was perplexed by the comment regarding their disbelief that I was no longer teaching.

Then I asked myself, If it wasn’t about how much money you make, then what would I be doing?

Teaching.

Why?

Because I believe what Maria said,”Within the child lies the fate of future.”

About 12 years ago, a young first-grade student was writing in her daily journal and was obviously distressed and upset. She told me that she hated cancer. Cancer killed her dog and hurt other people in her family. I responded what do you want to do about it? This young person organized a school walk around the playground raising money fight cancer. Another student, in the same class, was upset that people didn’t have enough to eat and she organized a food drive for a local homeless shelter. I want to emphasize that they did it, these young people with their passion decided how to make difference. They were not shut down or even coddled, but guided at a young age to create change instead of standing idly by. With this beautiful philosophy, possibility stays open for these young people and they do not have to fall into status-quo because they experience ultimate freedom to choose and act.

I am now starting to see students I had over a decade ago evolve into young adults. Nothing gives me as much joy as watching as they blaze new paths, having had the background of Montessori education. They learn that they can try anything and that they can independently choose to make a difference in the world.