AMS Funds
See your investments make an exponential impact in advancing the advocacy, standards, research, teacher education, and public policy that will enrich Montessori students, families, and communities for generations.
The Dr. Marlene Barron Innovation Fund
The Dr. Marlene Barron Innovation Fund honors the legacy of long-time American Montessori Society member and ardent supporter, Dr. Marlene Barron. Donations raised for this fund support the AMS Innovation Fellowship Think Tank and Labposium, as well as events and other budding initiatives designed to move Montessori education forward.
Where Your Dollar Goes
You’ll support two annual innovation initiatives designed to advance Montessori education on a global scale.
The AMS Innovation Fellowship Think Tank
The AMS Innovation Fellowship Think Tank puts research-based concepts and creative ideas into practice. We are thrilled to feature a global cohort of Montessori leaders from schools and teacher education programs to exchange knowledge and craft innovative approaches that bring AMS and our individual organizations to the next level of excellence.
AMS Labposium
In the AMS Labposium, participants study ways to accelerate innovation in Montessori schools and teacher education programs through team collaboration, interactive programming, and special workshops and group projects. This event was designed for AMS school leaders and teacher education program directors and coordinators for one simple reason: innovation is not a luxury, but rather a necessity.
Every Gift, No Matter the Size, Makes a Lasting Impact
The AMS Annual Fund
Your gift to the American Montessori Society Annual Fund advances the advocacy, standards, research, teacher education, and public policy that enrich Montessori students, families, and communities.
Where Your Dollar Goes
Your gift helps support AMS where we need it most.
- Set standards for Montessori schools and teacher education programs to uphold the integrity of the Montessori Method.
- Provide ongoing teacher education and professional development for all Montessori educators, including virtual and in-person gatherings.
- Support research about child development and education.
- Advance quality Montessori education by informing and influencing policymakers on issues related to education and the well-being of children and families.
- Award scholarships and grants to support the advancement of Montessori education and research.
- Promote Montessori in the public sector, making Dr. Montessori’s teaching more accessible to students.
Every Gift, No Matter the Size, Makes a Lasting Impact
The Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Fund
Help further our commitment to expanding access to American Montessori Society professional development and ensuring that the learning opportunities we provide are inclusive in serving all people.
Who You’ll Support
Your donation directly supports us in bringing Montessori resources and opportunities to under-resourced and marginalized groups.
Every Gift, No Matter the Size, Makes a Lasting Impact
Our 2024 Living Legacy Recipient
The 2024 Living Legacy recipient is Dr. Gay C. Ward. For over 2 decades, Gay Ward has been advocating for the American Montessori Society, advancing research and mentoring the next generation of leaders. Currently, Gay is a professor emerita at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF) where she works as a Montessori consultant and academic faculty in teacher education and Montessori studies.
AMS Living Legacy Fund Donation:
Who You’ll Support
Our world needs educators. With the demand for high quality teachers continuously on the rise, it is more important than ever that we dedicate ourselves to supporting these individuals who truly are the heart of Montessori.
Your donation to the Living Legacy Fund goes toward scholarships that help adult learners fulfill their dreams of teaching in Montessori classrooms.
Every Gift, No Matter the Size, Makes a Lasting Impact
AMS Peace & Social Justice Fund
Help support American Montessori Society’s Peace & Social Justice Committee as they advance principles of freedom, dignity, safety, and equitable treatment for all through initiatives like our Peace Seed Grants.
About Our Peace & Social Justice Committee
The AMS Peace & Social Justice Committee serves as an inspiration and resource for weaving concepts of peace, equity, humanitarianism, and world citizenship into Montessori venues and beyond. You can read more about our peace and justice philosophy here. From spearheading efforts that address global or national crises,
such as systemic racism and bias, to helping teachers make connections that build understanding and friendship, committee members know that, as engaged and compassionate citizens of the world, Montessori educators have the power to change their communities through peace and social justice education.