Spring Conference 2017

'Freedom: The Road to Independence and Self Discipline'

Program:

Freedom is one of the essential elements of a Montessori Environment. It is important for teachers and adults to understand what Montessori meant by “freedom.” Dr. Montessori began from the premise that the child has an internal guide which allows the child to construct herself. This is the only way the child can truly develop independence and self-discipline. If the child is to construct herself, she needs the perfect environment and a trained teacher. The teacher must understand and respect the child’s “freedom” to follow his or her internal guide without the adult forcing her will over the will of the child.

We are lucky to have two dedicated Montessori Training Directors from our area as the Morning Keynote Speakers:

Mrs. Dina Paulik currently serves as the director of Dallas Montessori Teacher Education Program (an AMS certified training site). She has extensive experience in public and private Montessori and holds a Master’s Degree from SMU.

Dr. Larry Quade serves as the Director of Primary Training at Montessori Institute of North Texas (an AMI certified training site). He has extensive experience in public and private Montessori and holds a Doctorate degree in Anthropology from the University of Kansas.

Conference Schedule

8:00- 8:30 Check in

8:30-10:15 We will spend the morning together

Dina Paulik will be presenting Freedom for the Child as it relates to the Planes of Development.

10:15-10:45 Break/Exhibits

10:45-12:00

Dr. Larry Quade will be presenting Freedom as it relates to Adult Practices and Behaviors within the Montessori Environment.

12:00 Lunch and School Tours

1:00-4:00 Participants choose one Workshop for the afternoon:

Participants will split into one of four different groups for the whole afternoon. The afternoon will allow presenters plenty of time to share their expertise with the participants. It will also allow for more questions, interaction, and experiences among the participants.

Best Business Practices with Sue Dendinger, Rebecca Bernard & Neal Agrawal

Freedom within the Infant and Toddler Community (0-3 year olds) with Cristel Ruiz

Freedom within the Early Childhood Environment (3-6 year olds) with Catalina Murcia

How Faculty and Parents Create Community (all levels) with Brenda Berleth and Kathy Cash

4:00-4:30 Questions/Certificates

Where:

Our Host will be Redeemer Montessori School in Irving TX. Shannon Flowers serves as Head of School.

Food and Refreshments:

Light Breakfast

Coffee and Water

Lunch will be included in registration fee of $30.00

Professional Development: 8 Hours

Space is limited. Sign up early. Registration starts at 8 A.M.

Partners

Neal Agrawal- 972-804-0742, www.preschoolexchange.com

Gold sponsors

Krystal Kohler- Insurance

Greg Watkins- The Chemical Guy