Montessori Teachers -- Two part question...?

Question

First, are you aware of a high demand for upper grade level Montessori teachers? (Age 6-9)

Second, does the certifying agency make that big a difference in getting a job? I've seen AMI certification and an International Organization. Will AMI schools hire you if you only have an International certification?

Any input would be helpful. I'm trying to decide if doing the certification through distance learning will be worth the investment. Thanks!

Answer 1

In Montessori 6-9 is usually called "Lower Elementary". 9 - 12 is usually called "Upper Elementary", but yes, there are a decent amount of positions available in either level.

Training is tricky. Many private schools align themselves with either AMI or AMS and will not hire head teachers outside of their alignment. I did say "many", not all are this strict. Public Montessori schools will usually take anyone with a Montessori credential as long as they have the correct state certification also.

As far as which to pick... First I would NOT choose an on-line program. These mainly focus on how to do material presentations and there is so much more to a good Montessori classroom then the materials. Instead I would find a program that fits my personality and take their normal training course. You will get sooooooooo much out of it.

Lastly, in general AMI centers are much more “pure” using only materials that either Maria or Mario made. AMS centers are more “adaptive” more using different materials and teaching different things to adapt to the change in society since the 1950’s.

Answer 2

I have nothing to add to Lysa's answer except to reply to the person about and say to avoid the online Montessori course route. An online course will not be widely accepted. You will find some schools that will take it, but you are going to severely limit your options to a handful of schools.