Tuition-free Montessori Education in San Jose, California

In a time of slashing budgets and exploding debt, anything free is worth a second look. In the Willow Glen area of San Jose, there is a little-known secret called Hammer Montessori at Galarza Elementary.

Hammer is a public magnet school in the San Jose Unified School District (SJUSD). The school opened in 1997 as a way to bring a Montessori education to all students in SJUSD, regardless of financial abilities.

What is a Public Montessori School?

Many people think that Montessori schools are just preschools. Some of this misconception comes from the fact that there are many more Montessori preschools than elementary schools. Actually, Maria Montessori developed the Montessori method in the early 1900s as a way to lead children of all ages on a path of self-discovery.

In the San Jose area, there are a few private Montessori elementary schools that charge tuition of $10,000 - $13,000 a year. For many parents who are struggling in this valley, that is way too much.

"It was not in our budget, as we are a one income family, as are many these days. We are thrilled that our boys have been able to attend the local public Montessori school to continue their education," says Katie Price, parent of a second grader and a kindergartner at Hammer.

The savings to your pocketbook is not the only reason to consider Hammer. The school has a staff of well-trained teachers. According to Hammer Resource Teacher, Lynn Belmonte, the teachers must have both state credentials and a Montessori certificate in the level they are instructing. How does this help the students?

"Not only do Hammer students have access to the wonderful hands-on Montessori materials, they also have access to the state adopted curriculum. The California standards have provided us with the expectations for students at each grade level," says Belmonte.

Belmonte goes on to address the perceived conflict between the Montessori method and state standards: "Although Montessori would of preferred a more observational approach to assessment, the standardized tests give us data to inform our instruction."

For Price, the results of this blending of methodology are positve. "We feel they are receiving a wonderful education and we are very grateful to have public Montessori education available to our sons."

How do I find out more about Hammer Montessori?

The school holds tours starting in February each year. To schedule a tour or find out more information, call Lynn Belmonte at 408-535-6671. To learn more about the Hammer, visit them online at http://www.sjusd.org/school/hammer.

References:

Seldon, Tim & Epstein, Paul, "The Montessori Way," The Montessori Foundation