This program helped me grow professionally by deepening my understanding of Montessori philosophy, observation, and the purpose of materials. It helped me understand my role as a Montessori educator and how to present lessons more effectively. One of the most valuable parts of the program was learning about observation and understanding how Montessori education supports the whole child. The program also gave me greater confidence as an educator and prepared me to work more independently in the classroom. With the program’s support and practical classroom experience, I developed stronger classroom management skills and a better understanding of how to guide children respectfully.

Before beginning this training, I was not very confident in myself as an educator. Now, I feel much more confident in my approach, classroom management, and understanding of children. I have learned that observation is one of the most important parts of Montessori education. I had the opportunity to work under a wonderful mentor who taught me a great deal both directly and indirectly. By observing her and learning from the Montessori environment, I gained a deeper understanding of how to guide children respectfully and support their independence. In the future, I hope to continue growing as a Montessori educator, expand my knowledge, and become a strong lead teacher who fosters a peaceful, supportive learning environment for children.

Before this training, I thought teaching was mainly about giving lessons and making sure children completed their work. Through this program, my understanding changed in many ways. I learned that reflection and observation are very important in Montessori education. By carefully observing children, we can better understand their needs and support their development. I also learned that facilitation means guiding and supporting the child rather than controlling the classroom. My understanding of teaching and learning changed because Montessori education allows children to learn independently through hands-on experiences and self-directed learning. Regarding leadership, this program helped me become more confident in classroom management, preparing the environment, and guiding children calmly and respectfully.

I would prefer having weekly Zoom meetings as part of the program. I feel that regular Zoom meetings would create a stronger sense of learning, support, and accountability for completing assignments on time. Discussions with the instructor and other educators would also provide valuable learning opportunities and resources. I understand that in-person classes may not always be possible, but weekly Zoom meetings would help clarify doubts and questions immediately. Sometimes it is easier to understand concepts through discussion rather than messages alone. I also think that having some form of oral presentations or assessments in the future could help educators feel more confident and prepared as lead teachers. Overall, I believe the summer residency is a very valuable part of the program and provides meaningful hands-on learning experiences.

Comment from Montessori Live administration: In a world where collaboration fuels creativity, our commitment to fostering a vibrant professional community has taken root through Aghalyaa’s insightful input, paving the way for an enriched learning environment. The introduction of regular Zoom chats has transformed our approach, inviting educators to engage in meaningful discussions that bridge gaps and spark innovative strategies. This initiative not only empowers our teaching team but also ensures that our students benefit from diverse perspectives and shared experiences. Together, we are crafting a culture of continuous improvement, where every voice contributes to the collective journey of growth and excellence in education.