In the public school system, there is a set path for teacher certification. All public school teachers are required to meet certain criteria before they are able to teach independently in the classroom. These criteria include getting a college education and participating in teacher training. Private schools are not bound by the same rules as public programs because they do not receive funding from the state. This means that teachers in private programs do not necessarily have to meet the same criteria as public school teachers. In a well-run private program, this difference can be a positive one because the school can have more stringent requirements for teacher training. Montessori teachers, in particular, are required to get in-depth training in the Montessori Method to get prepared for the classroom.
Rules governing private school teachers in California
The rules governing private school teachers in California states that certification is optional as long as students are being taught by someone who is ‘capable of teaching’. This rule leaves a lot of room for interpretation. Private schools have the freedom to choose teachers based on their own criteria instead of on criteria imposed by the state.
Standards for Montessori teachers
The standards for Montessori teachers can be set by the individual program. It is important to choose a private Montessori school that has high standards for teachers to ensure that your child gets the best possible education. Fountainhead Montessori School has an adult training program that teachers and assistants can go through to gain an accredited Montessori teaching credential. The majority of the current teachers at Fountainhead Montessori School have a bachelor’s degree or higher, Montessori credentials, and many have advanced degrees.
What to look for in terms of teacher training when considering a Montessori program
Montessori programs can choose to become accredited which requires them to meet a certain set of standards. The Western Association of Schools and Colleges is the accrediting commission for schools throughout California. You can choose a program with a WASC accreditation to ensure that you are sending your child to a school that is committed to excellence. Since accreditation is optional for private programs, you can rest assured that a Montessori program with accreditations is dedicated to going above and beyond to provide your child with an excellent education. Membership in the American Montessori Society (AMS) is something else to look for as you explore Montessori programs.
The Montessori Philosophy of education is very different from the philosophy of education that is the standard in public programs. Because of this, Montessori teachers have to spend time being trained in the Montessori Method. There is not a set standard of training for Montessori teachers which means you have to take the time to learn about the specific teacher training standards for each program you consider.