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The AMS Pathway

The American Montessori Society Pathway of Continuous School Improvement is a framework that supports member schools in a reflective process, centering Montessori core components and standards in best practices for schools.

Why Complete the Four-Stage Journey?

  • Schools that complete the pathway are better aligned with Montessori principles and accreditation standards.
  • Member schools get placement on our Find a School directory for increased visibility and an AMS Pathway certificate to verify their advancement.
  • As your school advances, you’ll be given access to an updated logo you can use to market your school to your community.
  • Be a part of a supportive community that includes AMS staff members and other school leaders as you work through the Pathway process.
  • Schools engaging their community in reflective practices strengthen both their programs and their community’s commitment to them.

The Four-Stage Pathway

Stage 1:

Member School

Member schools join AMS for personalized support, exclusive resources, and connecting with other school communities.

Stage 2:

Verified School

A member school becomes verified once AMS confirms they uphold the 5 core components of Montessori Education.

Stage 3:

Accreditation Candidate

To be a candidate for accreditation a school must be verified, meet the prerequisites, and have an approved application.

Stage 4:

Accredited School

A school earns AMS accreditation after writing a self-study and hosting a visiting team that verifies compliance with our accreditation standards.

See the accreditation process

The 5 Core Components

While there are many principles that make up a Montessori education, AMS recognizes these components as essential to an authentic, quality experience.

  • 1

    Trained Montessori Teachers

    A properly credentialed Montessori teacher has the skills and expertise to implement high-fidelity Montessori.

  • 2

    The Multi-Age Classroom

    Classes with 3-year age spans facilitate mentorship among the students and encourage leadership development.

  • 3

    Using Montessori Materials

    A hallmark of Montessori is specially designed materials that provide a hands-on approach to learning.

  • 4

    Child Directed Work

    Students are given agency to self-select work, leading to intrinsic motivation and sustained attention

  • 5

    Uninterrupted Work Periods

    An extended “free choice” period enables students to work at their own pace without interruption

Read more about the 5 Core Components

Maintaining AMS Verification

AMS School verification terms are 3 years. At the end of the term, a school must go through verification again.

Follow these steps to maintain your verification:

  1. Maintain AMS school membership for each school site.
  2. Continue to implement the 5 core components of Montessori education.
  3. Submit the annual report with specific updates on action plans, if any, by June 30.
  4. Inform AMS of any substantive changes at your school, i.e. change in leadership or ownership, relocation or significant change in facilities, opening or expanding a program.
  5. Every 3 years, schools will update their commitment to the core components by submitting a verification renewal form.

Interested in starting the process?

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