We partner with Montessori schools seeking authentic change.

The time for resilient Montessori is now.

We believe that the full implementation of the Montessori approach is not only achievable in the public sector, but a necessity in forwarding the positive academic and socio-emotional growth in every Montessori school community.

How PMAI works with schools

Schools select from a variety of options to create a plan that will move them closer to the goal of full implementation. With attention to structures used in other successful public Montessori schools, the work allows for changes that support schools in fulfilling their mission. 

We support schools in building strong Montessori programs through both short term and long term contracts with the typical contract lasting for a three year cycle. The first year offers the most support in shifting school culture through the lens of One School, Honest Talk and developing Strong Systems. Much like in the Montessori classroom, the second year is an opportunity to see where the school is ready to be independent and where more support is needed. The third year offers the least amount of support necessary for the school to function well on its own.

Our work with school leaders and the school community develops across the academic years to ensure deep learning and lasting change that goes on to serves the children, their families and all school-based adults long past the end of the partnership.

PMAI’s school partnership services are designed to meet the unique developmental needs of each community. We provide: 

  • start up planning & launch

  • professional development

  • leadership retreats 

  • ongoing leadership support

  • strategic planning 

  • communities of practice

  • curriculum implementation

  • coaching support

  • tools and resources

  • management strategies

Our implementation of the Whole School Framework is truly key to the success that we are experiencing as we re-emerge from the effects of the pandemic. Not just my ’school’, but me personally. Honestly, I was on the verge of throwing in the towel and moving on to another chapter. Our strategic plan is built from the Whole School Framework reference - my school is renewed and so am I.

We don’t just believe in public Montessori done well, we have the action steps to make it a reality.

Read our book, Montessori in Action: Building Resilient Schools, written by PMAI executive director, Elizabeth Slade, offering a cohesive and ambitious vision of school culture and the actionable guidance you’ll need to make that vision a reality. This book is a valuable resource for fully implementing the Montessori method.

Our district and school partnerships, past and present, enable public Montessori to thrive.

  • Asheville, NC

  • Forest Park, GA

  • Kingston, NY

  • San Antonio, TX

  • Chicago, IL

  • Washington D.C

  • Oakland, CA

  • Milwaukee, WI

  • Madison, WI

  • Southern Pines, NC

  • Manchester, NH

  • Sacramento, CA

  • Columbia, SC

  • Pullman, WA

  • Washington D.C

  • Cleveland, OH

What Our School Communities Are Saying

“It was really helpful for some of the check-ins to involve all of the coaching team + Principal. We've been trying to build bridges between departments so that people aren't siloed and that helped a lot, especially with accountability.”

“Coaches Forum is a great help for ideas and sharing. The meetings on Zoom with Administration have been incredibly helpful. Wish they were longer.”

“I really appreciate the support and networking with others around the country through our partnership in PMAI. I appreciate that PMAI continues to push Montessori as our primary focus within our school when so many other things can get in the way.”

“Being able to sign our staff up for professional development and trainings as we recognize the needs throughout the school year has been immensely helpful!”

Take action. The time for resilient Montessori is now.

Can you imagine your public Montessori school working with us?