What is AMI and WHY it matters:

AMI stands for the Association Montessori International. The curriculum in an AMI school follows exactly what Dr. Maria Montessori conceived and intended for all students. The purity of the original Montessori methodology is maintained by the AMI Montessori standards. Maria Montessori and her son Mario set up AMI in 1929 and its headquarters in located in Amsterdam. The AMI teacher training is a standardized method, in which there is a uniformity of teaching from the first classrooms to the upper levels. So if a child attending an AMI Montessori school transfers to another AMI school, he or she will not miss any constituency. This means that no matter where in the world an AMI school is located, it will follow the same curriculum that you find here at AMCC! This AMI recognition is so import when looking for the perfect school community.

The following excerpt is from the Association Montessori International website:

Choosing a school community sometimes feels like one of the most difficult decisions parents make for their children. Factors such as the child’s happiness and ability to progress academically, socially and emotionally intertwine with other practical concerns such as cost and convenience.

With AMI/USA Members Schools, parents can be assured that the school is a part of the AMI Recognition Program no matter where it is located within the United States. This process assures parents that the school holds the authentic standards of Montessori education in the highest regards and as envisioned by Dr. Maria Montessori. This also means that in today’s very mobile society should the need arise for a family to move from one area of the country to another if they look for an AMI/USA Member School, they will find a school that is familiar, and which will provide an easy transition for their children.

Please be aware that the name Montessori is not protected and therefore, any school can call itself a Montessori school. The AMI/USA Member School designation identifies schools that are within the AMI Recognition Program administered by AMI/USA. Once a school gains Recognized, Affiliated, or Associated status, the AMI/USA Member School Seal can be displayed on their school’s website. Look for this seal when in search of the best Montessori education for your child!