Why Parkside?
Of all things, love is the most potent.
– Dr. Maria Montessori
Montessori from the Heart. That’s Parkside.
Montessori education has been successfully serving children and families around the world for over a century. The basics remain - and for good reason, as Dr. Montessori's methods are consistently validated by current research in education and human development. In preparing our children for a future we can't fully imagine, Montessori education offers the academic, social, and emotional foundation they need to be well-rounded, productive, and engaged citizens of the world. So among the many Montessori schools in Austin, why choose Parkside?
In 1991, Parkside founders Joe and Claire Bruno answered a calling to create a school where each child receives not only the highest quality Montessori education, but also other life-changing gifts:
- the gift of true community and lasting friendships
- the gift of music appreciation
- the gift of connection with the natural world
- the gift of social and emotional skills that build their confidence and ability to succeed in life
We call our approach “Montessori from the Heart,” and we believe our unique combination of offerings makes Parkside a very special school.
We Meet Children Where They Are
This begins with guides trained in the specific developmental stages of the children they work with. By honoring where children are in their growth, we can create an educational environment that suits their individual needs and allows them to move at their own pace. We know that learning is not always linear, so children who need more support with certain skills get that support, and those who are ready to move ahead are able to find the challenges they crave. In addition, all children have opportunities to deeply study areas of personal interest.
We Foster Independence
At Parkside, the children learn that their independence is valued. We encourage free movement, as well as choice within carefully crafted limits, and make sure they know their voices are heard. As children get older, they begin to learn about organizing their work and time management. We teach them practical life skills that can be used in the classroom, home, and beyond. This emphasis on independence gives children a tremendous sense of empowerment and ownership of their classroom.
We Model Respect, Kindness, and Peace
The fundamental purpose of all Montessori education is to create a more peaceful world by nurturing the spirit of the developing young child. Our children are global citizens, and from 3 years-old on, they learn about world geography and traditions from a diverse array of cultures. We want them to understand the interconnectedness of all people and all things so that they may be fully integrated members of their greater community as they grow and mature. We teach and practice conflict resolution and are able to help the children navigate social dynamics as they arise. We aim to cultivate within the child a respect for themselves, others, and the environment, as well as a desire to ensure connection and fairness for all. We believe that peace and kindness should be the base of any quality education and a foundation that is necessary for the progress of humanity.
“Parkside has a wonderful reputation in the Montessori community of Austin, and thus intrigued us. But what kept us at Parkside is the love and support we felt from the teachers, admin, directors, and community. Our children's teachers were more than just "guides" -- they obviously cared for them, too. ”
- The Scotts
