For the last 45 years, The Montessori School of Winston-Salem (TMS) has been providing a unique educational experience for this community. By using the Montessori approach to learning, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, TMS implements a responsive approach to education centered around the specific and changing developmental needs of children as they grow. The aim is to foster each child’s growth physically, socially, emotionally, and cognitively. Over the years, TMS has provided a variety of programs that have evolved and changed, leading up to a current program that ranges from the age of 18 months through the ninth grade.

If you are interested in learning more about TMS, the students have a unique perspective on what makes it such a special place to learn and grow. Prospective families can gain great insight on understanding the value of an education at TMS by simply listening to what they have to say. Students from all grade levels were asked a variety of questions regarding their experience. Here is what they had to say.

Children have a way of saying what they mean. They tend to be even more honest with each other. That is why the students of TMS were asked, “If you met a new friend, what would you want them to know about your school?”.

“I really like the TMS community because everyone is friendly and willing to help each other. The Adolescent Program offers meaningful and purposeful work and not random things to keep us busy.” ~Riley, 8th Grade

“That it’s a good school. Everyone is nice.” ~Liam, 3rd Grade

“Our community is creative, helpful, and kind.” ~Caitlyn, Age 5

In the Montessori classroom, the prepared environment is an essential part of the experience. It is a delightful space scaled to the size of the child and designed to meet their developmental needs. Independent learning is combined with a sense of community and caring for one another. Students at TMS were asked, “What do you like about your Montessori classroom?”.

“I care about the classroom. I love it because it has nice friends. Some of our classroom agreements are ‘no stepping on nature, we use nice voices, we use gentle hands, and we respect our friends.’” ~Avery, Age 4

“It’s full of Art.” ~Lana, Age 3

“We all work together.” ~Emma, 3rd Grade

Montessori work and lessons are tailored to the student. They allow students to be active participants in their own learning in an environment that is set up to be supportive. The learning is also designed to be fun and engaging. TMS students were asked, “What is your favorite Montessori work or lesson?”.

“A Spanish lesson where we made Sugar Skulls for the Day of the Dead. It took a few days to make. We built the mold, then decorated and painted them. Everything was edible, so we got to take it home to eat!” ~Jocelyn, 6th Grade

“MATH!!! You get challenges in doing addition and getting to learn new stuff.” ~Owen, 1st Grade

“I like to do maps. Pin-punch them, trace them, and work them like puzzles.” ~Molly, Age 5 and 3 quarters

“Making flower arrangements.” ~Claire, Age 4

It is important to all parents that their child enjoy their educational experience. TMS provides some truly unique opportunities for students. There are many long-standing traditions and events such as picnics, community sings, trips, and more. This keeps students engaged, excited, and promotes lifelong learning. Students were asked, “What do you look forward to at TMS?”.

“The camping trip to Grayson Highlands. I camp on a regular basis, but this will be the first time camping with friends from school, so it will be a different experience.”

~Harris, 7th Grade

“I can’t wait for the week-long New York Trip and research project next year!” ~Eli, 5th Grade

“I like getting to work with my friends. Sometimes we have events that we can say hi to old teachers and friends. Love the campout, school picnics, and talent show!” ~Elizabeth, 2nd Grade

“Going to the library with my friends and playing with them outside.” ~Aurora, Age 4

TMS provides a unique learning environment for students. It is no surprise that students had great things to say when asked, “What are some qualities about TMS that makes it different from other schools?”. 

“I like how our outdoor environment is different than other schools and how we have more room to do many things outside.” ~Emma, 6th Grade

“Being greeted by students coming into school every morning.” ~Amaya, 6th Grade

“We have community meetings, cursive writing, and chalkboards.” ~Sebastian, Age 4

The Montessori School of Winston-Salem is located at 6050 Holder Road in Clemmons. If you would like to learn more about what a Montessori education has to offer, contact the admissions office at 336-766-5550, or visit their website at wsmontessori.org to schedule a visit. You can also attend one of these upcoming events:

• Parent Visit & School Tour: Wednesdays, 9-11 AM
• Elementary Sneak Peek (1st-6th Grade): Thursday, October 24th, 2019, 6-8 PM
• Children’s House Sneak Peek (3 to 6 Years Old): Thursday, November 14th, 2019, 6-8 PM
• Open House: Sunday, January 26th, 2019, 2-4 PM