In the Montessori Program children progress at their own rates in multi-aged classes of 3 - 6 and 6 - 9. Children with special interests and/or abilities can forge ahead as far and as fast as they want without being held back by other children or grade level curriculum limitations. Other children in the class learn from and are motivated by their association with the high achievers. In the non-competitive atmosphere of Montessori classes where students are not judged in relation to each other, the children are free to like each other, to appreciate the accomplishments of their classmates, and to cooperate with each other's educational endeavors. Each class becomes a cooperative community.

Montessori discovered that children have sensitive periods or critical learning periods that are age specific. During each of these periods, children exhibit a burning interest in specific kinds of activities and the acquisition of specific knowledge and skills. Montessori provides opportunities to engage in activities which match specific sensitive periods. Children are presented with a number of different materials and activities appropriate to their sensitive periods and are given the opportunity to choose from among them. They follow their inner directives and choose activities which fulfill the needs of these periods. In the process, they learn to make choices and to make constructive use of their time. The students stay in touch with their innate desire to learn and pursue activities and topics of interest further than would be required in a regular school setting. Thus an ability to work independently and a love of learning are established. The students become independent thinkers, capable of making decisions and pursuing knowledge on their own. These are attributes which enhance quality of life and are especially important in the development of future leaders.

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