Humberside was founded in 1987 by Felix Bednarski Molly Galle, and they remain as directors of the school today. As such, there has been a long and consistent attention to the initial intentions for the school, one of those being a fidelity to the core of the Montessori program as described by Maria Montessori through her work. That fidelity to the core of the approach is a particular draw for the families that enroll here, as is the demonstrated attention to maintaining AMI standards in classroom resources and faculty development. Parental involvement in the life of the school is welcome and encouraged, allowing a sense of community that extends nicely beyond the walls of the school proper.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"Accredited by the prominent Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) established by Dr. Maria Montessori, Humberside Montessori School is found in the heart of the Bloor West Village-High Park neighbourhood in Toronto. Our school was established in 1987 by Felix Bednarski (M.A., A.M.I.) and his wife Molly Galle (RN). We remain dedicated to promoting the educational philosophy envisioned by Dr. Montessori, and we adhere to the principles that are recognized as the international standard for Montessori education."
Accredited by Association Montessori Internationale (A.M.I.)
Unique Adolescent Program (Grade 7 and 8)
Information sessions for parents
French from 2.5 years to Grade 8
Nature based playground
Large gym and spacious premises
Before-and after-school programs
Catered lunch for Casa Program (optional)
Summer camp
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"Our authentic Montessori pedagogy creates carefully designed learning environments that meet our students' social, emotional and intellectual needs. Mixed age learning...(more)
"Our authentic Montessori pedagogy creates carefully designed learning environments that meet our students' social, emotional and intellectual needs. Mixed age learning environments where children stay with the same teacher for multiple years ensures that children are able to learn at their own pace which keeps them at just the right level of challenge. Those who are ready to move on do so, children who need a bit more time to consolidate their learning are also able to thrive."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
Information not yet available.
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
Information not yet available.
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
Information not yet available.
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
Information not yet available.
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"The overwhelming feedback we receive from our families is that they are consistently amazed by the children and staff across all grades who are happy, engaged and productive in...(more)
"The overwhelming feedback we receive from our families is that they are consistently amazed by the children and staff across all grades who are happy, engaged and productive in beautiful environments both indoor and outdoor. Our location directly on the Bloor subway line makes us very accessible and our tuition rates are extremely competitive with parents feeling that they are getting tremendous value for the money spent."
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
Information not yet available.
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"The time, energy and thought dedicated to classroom design to encourage independence, exploration and self-directed learning.
We see children as immensely capable and revered...(more)
"The time, energy and thought dedicated to classroom design to encourage independence, exploration and self-directed learning.
We see children as immensely capable and revered individuals.
The longstanding relationships that we develop with our families. Students stay connected to our school for many years after graduation and often visit to let us know how they are doing."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
"Some parents might be surprised to know that our students graduate from Humberside Montessori School in Gr. 8 and that we are one of very few Montessori Schools in Canada that...(more)
"Some parents might be surprised to know that our students graduate from Humberside Montessori School in Gr. 8 and that we are one of very few Montessori Schools in Canada that have an Adolescent Program (Gr. 7/8 classroom)."
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
Information not yet available.
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?
Preschool to Gr. 4 (current) — Watch our parent interview with Anver Emon to get the inside scoop on what it’s like to have a child attend Humberside Montessori School.
Preschool to Gr. 8 (current) — Watch our parent interview with Mike & Kara Oliver to get the inside scoop on what it’s like to have a child attend Humberside Montessori School.
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