The Montessori Magnet at Pontiac Elementary was recently recognized as a 2019 Nationally Certified-Demonstration Magnet School by Magnet Schools of America. On August 15, the Montessori Magnet at Pontiac Elementary received notification of this recognition.
As a Nationally Certified-Demonstration Magnet School, the Montessori Magnet at Pontiac Elementary has demonstrated through evidence, reflection, and strategic action it has exceeded the criteria of the Standards of Excellence in its school.
The certification process is based on the five pillars of magnet schools and the National Magnet School Standards of Excellence. These standards define the essential elements and characteristics of high-quality magnet programs.
The Montessori Magnet at Pontiac Elementary is made of five primary classrooms (which serve 3, 4, and 5 year olds), five lower elementary classrooms (which serve 1st, 2nd, and 3rd graders), and three upper elementary classrooms (which serve 4th and 5th graders). Each classroom is taught by a trained Montessori teacher in addition to an instructional assistant.
“This is a tremendous honor to be recognized amongst other premier magnet programs in our district and as well as around the country,” Principal Dr. Katie Barber said. “Our Montessori magnet teachers work hard each day to provide academic excellence to our students. Their efforts are celebrated and applauded.”
“We are honored to be recognized as a National Certified Demonstration school. Going through this intensive, reflective process provided our program the platform to strengthen and grow, as our staff and Parent Advisory examined our practices and how they correlated to the Magnet Schools of America 5 Pillars of Excellence,” said lead teacher Molly Robbins.
The Montessori Magnet Program at Pontiac Elementary opened in 2007. The program serves three year old through fifth grade students in a multi-aged setting. Students select this choice magnet program through Richland Two’s lottery program each year.
