Elementary
Ages 6-12
The MCM Elementary experience empowers students to reach their own personal potential and develop the confidence and capabilities to positively impact their world.
Our Elementary School offers an unparalleled opportunity for children to thrive by combining a progressive Montessori pedagogy, a dynamic experiential program, strong academics, art, music, and Spanish. It's organized into 3-year programs: the Lower Elementary is 1st through 3rd grade (for students 6-9 years of age) and the Upper Elementary is 4th through 6th grade (for students 9-12 years of age). The mixed age groups allow each child to find a variety of peers at his or her own level of challenge and benefit from the experience of being a follower, observer, and leader.
Academics
Our Elementary program provides strong, progressive academics in Mathematics, Language, Science, and History. Math and language instruction take place in small group settings, allowing teachers to closely assess understanding and tailor lessons to each student’s needs. Montessori math materials and lessons isolate key concepts and build concrete skills through hands on, inquiry based learning that encourages students to think deeply, investigate, and solve problems.
Reading, writing, and language development are woven throughout every subject area and strengthened through rich literature, targeted instruction, and a variety of writing approaches. Students participate in regular reading and writing lessons, from crafting personal narratives to studying historical biographies in literature groups. Our academic program meets and often exceeds Oregon state standards to ensure students are well prepared for future learning. In addition to core academics, students enjoy music, art, life skills, Spanish, and physical education.
From Concrete to Abstract
Montessori education intentionally guides students from concrete experiences to abstract understanding. Children first explore concepts using hands on materials that allow them to see, touch, and manipulate ideas in a tangible way. This concrete work builds a deep and accurate foundation before symbols, numbers, and abstract representations are introduced.
As students gain confidence, teachers gradually connect the materials to more abstract thinking through discussion, problem solving, and written work. By the time students reach abstract concepts, they understand not just how to complete a task, but why it works. This progression supports long term understanding, strong reasoning skills, and the ability to apply learning across subjects and real life situations.
Cultural Learning
Our cultural curriculum places a strong emphasis on history, science, and geography, giving students a deep and meaningful understanding of the world around them. Learning extends far beyond textbooks as students research with books, examine primary sources, and engage in thoughtful discussion to build context and understanding.
Classrooms come alive through immersive simulations, hands on experiments, project based research, and guest speakers who bring real world perspectives into the learning experience. In a time when rich cultural studies are increasingly reduced or removed from school curricula, we intentionally prioritize these subjects to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and a well rounded view of the world.
Practical Life
Practical Life is a foundational part of our Montessori program and reflects our commitment to teaching real world skills that build independence and confidence. Students engage in purposeful work such as sewing, cooking, and fixing a bike tire, learning how to care for themselves, their environment, and their community.
These experiences strengthen concentration, coordination, problem solving, and perseverance while helping students see themselves as capable and responsible individuals. By practicing meaningful life skills in a supportive setting, children develop competence and confidence that extends far beyond the classroom.
Field Trips
Field trips are an intentional and meaningful extension of our curriculum. Regular local field trips allow students to connect classroom learning to the real world through hands on experiences that deepen understanding and spark curiosity.
As students grow, they also participate in distance and overnight field trips that build independence, responsibility, and community while offering immersive learning opportunities. These experiences reinforce academic concepts, strengthen social skills, and help students develop confidence as learners beyond the classroom.