Teachers, education professionals, parents and the community are invited to learn about Montessori education at a “Montessori 101” free online workshop, offered March 18 and April 17 by the University of Delaware’s Montessori Academy.

Learn why “Play is the work of the child,” as articulated by Maria Montessori, the doctor and educator whose groundbreaking, child-centered educational philosophy became the basis of this teaching and learning methodology.

With its focus on students’ unique development and abilities, hands-on learning, problem-solving and social development, and an emphasis on the whole child, Montessori education has been adapted and implemented all over the world. Present-day, public Montessori education also addresses special education needs, English language learners, literacy, family engagement, and diversity and inclusion.

The UD Montessori Academy offers comprehensive Montessori teacher training programs, customized seminars and professional education for Montessori schools, and support services for schools and learning centers wishing to implement Montessori programs.

Its teacher training program, the UD Montessori Teacher Residency (UDMTR), is offered through UD’s Division of Professional and Continuing Studies and played a pivotal role in the 2020-21 launch of Sussex Montessori Charter School in Seaford, Delaware, with 10 of its new teachers receiving their training in the program’s inaugural cohort. This summer will mark the start of UDMTR’s fifth teacher training cohort.

To learn more about UD Montessori Academy or UDMTR, or to RSVP for Montessori 101 on March 18 or April 17, visit the website.