Mary's Garden Early Childhood Center - Essay Example

Montessori in a Montessori in a Catholic EnvironmentOur education program is one of the few in Chicago that offers Montessori classes in a Catholic environment. In essence, we are a school within a school. We have six Montessori classes at varying levels. InclusionWe have supported the inclusion of children with special needs from the beginning. (We currently have 35 enrolled.) Supportive services are provided through the Belle Center and the Chicago Public Schools.An Award-Winning Play YardWe have a nationally recognized Outdoor Learning Environment - recognized by the National Wildlife Foundation.

Our garden is the recipient of numerous awards from the City Of Chicago. The wetlands garden provides a wonderful place for children to explore, play and learn about themselves and the world around them.Financial IndependenceWe are financially independent and do not rely on parish support. All of our funds are provided through tuition, grants, and fundraising efforts.A Great CommunityWe have wonderful parents, teachers, principals, and an advisory board that works together to make our school a special place that it is.

Parents are vital to our school and encouraged to participate in as much as they are able. We view parents as partners with the teachers in the care and education of the children. Many parents even serve on our Board or on many of our volunteer committees.Our faculty is composed of highly skilled Early Childhood professionals that have been selected because of their commitment and dedication to both children and families. Assistant teachers provide support to the teacher as well as love, warmth and knowledge to the children.

Sister Barbara Jean Ciszek, C.S.J., also known as Sister BeeJay, has been our principal since we were founded in 1998. In her role, she works with the board, parents and faculty to oversee the day-to-day operation of the school as well as the spiritual and educational development of our students. She is under the direction of the Archdiocesan Superintendent of the Catholic Schools.The Board of Directors is composed of 12 members – many of whom are parents. They are committed to the mission of the school and are supported by volunteer parent committees.

Catholic Environment