AMS Book Club: Montessori in Contemporary Culture

The AMS Book Club is designed to bring together members of the Montessori community to read and discuss thought-provoking literature, build connections with other educators, and grow from one another as we evolve in our learning journeys.

Martha Teien, one of the authors highlighted in the newest AMS publication, Montessori in Contemporary Culture will be hosting live discussions of her book for our Summer 2025 book club.

Montessori in Contemporary Culture

Montessori in Contemporary Culture invites you to explore the evolution and impact of Montessori education, offering insights and guidance for today and the future. The chapters in this book delve into various timely topics pertinent to 2024 and beyond, echoing themes of growth, innovation, and social responsibility. They cover the foundational principles of Montessori, AMS’s historical evolution, and the importance of materials and the learning environment. The chapters also explore teacher training globally, the integration of Montessori in public schools, sustainability, social justice, parent engagement, public policy and advocacy, the balance between tradition and technology, and the future of Montessori education.

As you journey through this book, we hope you take away valuable insights and inspiration for your educational pursuits, and feel empowered to create meaningful and lasting impact in the communities you serve. Montessori education has the potential to drive positive changes in our world, and you play an essential role in its continued growth and legitimacy. Together, we can cultivate a world where every child thrives in a nurturing and empowering educational environment.

Where to find Montessori in Contemporary Culture

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Schedule

Please note: We invite you to join the book club, even if you cannot attend every session or fall behind on the reading. We welcome you to join the conversation.

Part 1: Thursday, July 10 at 3:00 PM (ET)

Chapter 1 Upholding Our History: Tracing Montessori from Past to Present
Chapter 2 Research and Observation : Pedagogical Essentials for Building a Better World
Chapter 3 Innovation and Adaptation in the Montessori Prepared Environment
Chapter 4 Access and Full Implementation: Challenges and Opportunities in Public Montessori

Part 2: Thursday, July 17 at 3:00 PM (ET)

Chapter 5 Philosophical Underpinnings for the Incorporation of Digital Citizenship in Montessori Environments
Chapter 6 From Seed to Society: Sustainability Education in Montessori Contexts
Chapter 7 Culturally Responsive Education: Fostering Equity and Social Justice in Montessori Education
Chapter 8 Family Engagement in Montessori Schools in the U.S and China: A Cross-Cultural Exploration

Part 3: Thursday, July 24 at 3:00 PM (ET)

Chapter 9 Unleashing the Potential of Montessori Teacher Education in an Increasing Diverse Global Population
Chapter 10 Advancing Access to Montessori Education through Advocacy
Chapter 11 Montessori and Adult Development: Theory to Practice
Chapter 12 Paving the Path to a Transformative Future

About Martha Teien

Martha Teien, EdD, is the founding director, owner, and early childhood lead guide of Mountain Montessori in Avon, CO, a thriving Montessori community she established over 20 years ago. A passionate advocate for Montessori education, Martha was among the pioneering cohort of the first Montessori doctoral program at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, where she focused on Montessori teacher sustainability.

As a co-author of Chapter 8: Family Engagement in Montessori in Contemporary Culture, Martha brings deep insight into the vital connection between families and Montessori education. She extends this work as a guardian-educator facilitator for the AMS international online course, You and Your Child’s Montessori Education, helping families navigate their Montessori journey with confidence.

Martha recently completed her tenure as board chair of the Montessori Public Policy Initiative (MPPI), where she worked to advance high-fidelity Montessori through policy and advocacy. Her leadership and dedication continue to shape the Montessori landscape, inspiring educators and families alike.

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