Parent praises school program,urges its expansion

Limestone-Central Elementary parent Donna Moore had an unusual agenda Tuesday evening when she addressed the school board about her child's education.

Rather than being critical of the school district, Moore requested the school board consider expanding the Montessori kindergarten program. She has been impressed with the progress her 4-yearold daughter, Mallory, has made in Montessori at Limestone-Central Elementary.

The multi-age preschool program emphasizes selfdirected activity on the part of children and clinical observations by teachers. It stresses the importance of adapting the child's learning environment to his or her development level.

"My husband and I have been amazed at the tremendous learning and growth Mallory experienced last year while attending half-day Montessori classroom. She is in a full-day program this year," Moore told school trustees. "We are very appreciative to the school district for making this program available for students. We hope the school district will look into the possible expansion of Montessori to other schools and grades so other students might benefit from it."

Montessori kindergarten classes are currently available at Blacksburg Primary, Limestone-Central Elementary, and Northwest Elementary. It is one of several kindergarten models used by county elementary schools.

Blacksburg Primary has expressed an interest in becoming a Montessori primary school.

Teacher training and funding remain obstacles towards making Montessori more available in schools, said Linda Sellars, assistant superintendent for instruction and curriculum.

Teachers must commit to receiving training in Montessori education theory and classroom learning practices, Sellars said. The training for teachers is equivalent to earning another master's degree.

In addition, Sellars said the district must provide funds for schools to purchase classroom equipment used specifically for Montessori classroom learning activities.