Secondary

At Catskill Montessori, we offer our students an exceptional environment to expand their horizons, take on adult-like responsibilities, and build a unique foundation for young adulthood. In line with Maria Montessori's insights from "From Childhood to Adolescence," we understand that adolescents, in the third plane of development, thrive best in a school setting with a working farm, enabling them to learn vital life skills and gain independence. Our secondary program is situated on a picturesque farm, the perfect environment for students to learn and assume responsibilities that shape them into confident, capable young adults.

Earth Stewardship at the Core

A cornerstone of our Montessori Adolescent Program is our Earth Stewardship initiative. We recognize the urgent need for young people to actively participate in preserving our planet and positively impacting the environment.

Our Earth Stewardship Program encompasses:

Traditional Ecological Knowledge: Students learn about indigenous wisdom and traditional ecological practices that have sustained the Earth for centuries.

Regenerative Agriculture: Adolescents have the opportunity to engage in regenerative farming practices, gaining insights into sustainable food production and environmental responsibility.

Permaculture: Students delve into permaculture principles, adopting a holistic approach to designing sustainable systems that work harmoniously with nature.

Empowering Adolescents with a Montessori Perspective

Montessori education is rooted in the belief that each stage of a child's development has distinct needs and opportunities. The adolescent phase is no exception. Adolescents are on the verge of becoming responsible, independent individuals. They require an environment that respects their individuality, encourages exploration, and provides hands-on experiences.

Our farm and Earth Stewardship program is the engine for building a micro-society and micro-economy that offers students a holistic educational experience beyond the traditional classroom. It provides a rich context for learning about economics, society, and the environment while nurturing a strong sense of responsibility and independence.

Empowering Adolescents for a Sustainable Future

Practical Life Skills: Farm work teaches students essential practical life skills, such as planting, harvesting, animal care, and food production. These skills can be directly applied to their daily lives and future careers.

Responsibility: Caring for animals and crops instills a sense of responsibility and commitment. Students learn to prioritize tasks, manage resources, and ensure the well-being of living creatures, fostering a strong work ethic.

Economic Understanding: Students gain firsthand experience with economic concepts like supply and demand as they contribute to producing goods (e.g., crops, honey) and services (e.g., farm tours or workshops).

Microeconomy: The farm serves as a microeconomic model where students learn about budgeting, pricing, marketing, and selling agricultural products. They can see the financial impact of their efforts on a small scale.

Community Interaction: Students interact with the local community by selling farm products and participating in farmers' markets. This fosters connections and social responsibility.

Environmental Stewardship: Farmwork promotes environmental awareness and stewardship as students engage with the land. They learn about sustainable farming practices, biodiversity, and ecological balance.

Teamwork and Collaboration: Collaborative tasks on the farm encourage teamwork and cooperation. Students work together to achieve common goals, mirroring the dynamics of a small society.

Problem Solving: Farming involves addressing various challenges, such as weather conditions, pest control, and resource management. Students develop problem-solving skills through these real-life situations.

MicroSociety: The farm can be viewed as a micro-society, with students taking on roles and responsibilities that mirror real-world dynamics. They experience leadership, governance, and social interaction within the farm community.

Entrepreneurial Spirit: In some cases, students may explore entrepreneurial opportunities on the farm, which can provide valuable insights into starting and running a small business.

At Catskill Montessori, we're dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders and Earth Stewards. Join us on this journey of discovery, growth, and environmental stewardship. Together, we'll prepare your adolescent for a brighter, more sustainable future.