MONTESSORI EDUCATION
History of Montessori Education
Dr. Maria Montessori distinguished herself as the first female medical doctor in Italy and as a dedicated scientist and educator. In 1907, she established the first Casa dei Bambino or Children’s House in Rome, where her extensive observations and insights led to the development of a groundbreaking approach to child education that introduced a new educational philosophy. In this environment, the teacher’s role is to connect children with Montessori materials and resources while fostering a calm and peaceful atmosphere that promotes concentration. Through focused interaction with these materials, children learn and grow.
Enthusiasm for the Montessori method surged in North America following the publication of an article in McClure’s Magazine in 1911 titled, “An Educational Wonder Worker- The Methods of Maria Montessori”, which also marked the founding of the first North American Montessori School by Dr. Montessori’s first American student, Anne George. Today, Montessori’s principles and methods are esteemed and practiced around the globe. Dr Montessori tirelessly lectured, authored books, and trained students in her teaching methodology until her passing in 1952.
Our Story
Ahwatukee Foothills Montessori (AFM) was founded in 1995 by Jan Vickery, a passionate educator who saw a unique opportunity to bring Montessori education to the growing village of Ahwatukee after relocating from Michigan. As the first Montessori school in the area, AFM quickly became a trusted place for early childhood education, thriving under Mrs. Vickery’s thoughtful leadership.
In 2011, after over 15 years of dedication, Mrs. Vickery retired and entrusted the school to Meaghan McClung, who had been a valued member of the AFM teaching team since 1999. As Head of School, Mrs. McClung continues to uphold the school’s founding vision and commitment to excellence.
At AFM, we believe in nurturing the whole child. Our approach supports not only academic growth, but also the social, emotional, and physical development essential to each child’s happiness and lifelong success. This philosophy remains at the heart of everything we do.
What qualities define an exceptional Montessori school?
Since the Montessori name is not protected by copyright, it can be difficult to determine if a school genuinely embodies the Montessori philosophy or is simply using the name. Look for these key indicators:
- A certificate of affiliation from a recognized institution like the American Montessori Society
- The presence of Montessori materials accessible to all students in every classroom
- A work cycle that provides sufficient time for concentration and material engagement
- Montessori trained and certified teachers in each classroom
- An environment filled with productive noise and activity
- A culture of respect
- Children who are confident, independent, and self-directed
- Opportunities for social interaction and movement integrated into the classroom routine
- Individualized programs tailored for each student
- Classrooms that feature a mixed age grouping
Come Visit & Compare!
An individual guided tour of our campus with our director is available by appointment. Contact us for more info.
Enrollment is wait list based. Please submit your pre-enrollment application to begin the enrollment process.
