AMI Elementary (6-12) Diploma Program

The AMI Elementary diploma program offers an in-depth study of Montessori theory and practice for individuals who aspire to work with children aged six to twelve. During 1225 hours of teacher preparation, students thoroughly explore Montessori principles, teaching techniques, and elementary content lessons as offered in the Montessori lower and upper elementary classrooms.

The children at this age explore the universe through their imaginations and growing reasoning minds. A combination of inspiring stories, hands-on materials, and self-directed activity, guided by the development of individual and social responsibility, gives the children the interest and skills needed to explore traditional academic studies, as well as music, art, and drama. The Montessori teacher offers opportunities for collaborative intellectual exploration in which the children’s interests are supported and guided. The trained adult also supports the development of self-confidence, imagination, intellectual independence, and self-efficacy.

The Montessori teacher works with the developmental characteristics of elementary children, guiding them through an integrated curriculum that fosters a deep understanding of their role in their community, in their culture, and in the natural world. The Montessori teacher forms a strong bond with the children and is able to support their individual strengths as well as address any difficulties that arise. By drawing deeply upon the stories of human history and our knowledge of the universe, students will learn how to communicate to children the keys to exploring the awe-inspiring and interconnected nature of our world. This intensive program provides a solid foundation for the Montessori elementary teacher’s work.

• Learner Handbook

Students in the Elementary program produce comprehensive teaching manuals to support their ongoing work with children: Biology, Geography, History, Mathematics, Geometry, Language, Music, Art, and Montessori Theory and Implementation. These teaching manuals form a large component of the student's work throughout the program and are based on demonstrations and lectures given by the trainers, and on the students’ work with staff and other members of the cohort in class and through collaborative work. Students create many of their own classroom materials, used as keys to spark the children’s imaginations and help them grasp core concepts.

In addition, students in the Elementary Training program will complete the required number of Observation hours and Practice Teaching in AMI elementary classrooms during the academic year. These arrangements are made by the student under the guidance of the training team.

Observation and Student Teaching hours for AMI 6-12 Diploma Program are:

100 hours for Observation.
This breaks down to 90 hours at the 6-12 level and 10 at the 3-6 level.

All of the 3-6 level hours must be done in a classroom run by an AMI 3-6 diploma holder.

The Observation hours for the 6-12 level will be divided into three "sessions." The first two 30-hour sessions must take place in classrooms run by AMI 6-12 diploma holders at the appropriate level in a classroom other than that in which the student works. The last 30 hours can be done in the classroom in which the student works (whether they are the main or only teacher or if they are an assistant) if (1) the student works in a Montessori classroom at the appropriate level and (2) the student remains in "good standing" on the course.

("Good standing" means that the student is not behind on work and has appropriate attendance and class participation.)

120 hours for Practice Teaching.
This breaks down to two 60-hour sessions.

The first 60 hours must be done in a classroom other than that in which the student might work. The class must be run by an AMI 6-12 diploma holder. The second 60-hour session can be done in the students own classroom (whether they are the main or only teacher or if they are an assistant) if (1) the student works in a Montessori classroom with the full complement of materials at the appropriate age level and (2) the student remains in "good standing" on the course.

Comprehensive written and oral examinations at the end of the program allow each student to express and share how they have met the standards of the Association Montessori Internationale.

6-12 Booklist
Off-Campus Resource List

Students will purchase books independently. You will be provided a booklist prior to the program of the required and suggested books to purchase. Many of the books are now available from various sellers in an eBook format.

You will receive specific guidance about exact requirements at the start of the program, but all students will need these items to start:

• Computer, all-in-one printer, and internet access

• Ample note-taking supplies (ie: large multi-subject notebooks)

• Colored pencils for album illustrations

• Copy paper

The AMI Elementary program requires students to create teacher made materials which will be used in the classroom. This material making requirement will be met by making several different classroom materials for use in the areas of math, language and biology. Students will also create original stories for use in the classroom in each area of study.

Costs vary depending on the supplier and thriftiness. Students can expect to spend approximately $1,000 for album-making materials, printing, ink, paper, notebooks, binders, and art supplies throughout the program as well as $99 for an AMI Membership.