The International Festival that takes place at CMS every fall, is a gathering of families from all around the world to learn about other people and places that each classroom has been preparing to share. It’s such a fun and enriching experience, and this year we have travelled from Venezuela, India, Egypt, Japan and China through Spain, Ukraine, Italy, France and Canada. It was wonderful seeing everyone and if you missed it, mark your calendars for next year!
Diversity in a Montessori Classroom
At Montessori schools, diversity is more than a value and it’s a daily practice. We celebrate differences in culture, language, family background, and ability to help every child feel welcome and valued. By learning about the world and the people in it, children develop empathy, respect, and an understanding that we are all connected.
How We Foster Diversity at CMS Through a culturally rich curriculum:
Children are introduced to stories, songs, and activities from many cultures and traditions. This helps them appreciate both what makes people unique and what we share in common.
With an inclusive environment:
Our classrooms are designed to make every child feel seen and respected. The materials, books, and visuals we use reflect the diversity of the world around us.
Using diverse learning materials:
Montessori materials are thoughtfully chosen to represent a variety of people, family structures, and communities so that all children can see themselves in their learning.
Practicing peace and communication skills:
Through practical lessons in kindness, problem solving, and cooperation, children learn how to navigate differences and build strong, caring relationships.
Vast representation in staff:
Many Montessori schools also work to hire and support educators from diverse backgrounds, giving children a broader range of role models.
Hi CMS Families!
You are invited to a casual, open meeting at the Georgetown Library on November 19th, 11:30 am to 1 pm. This gathering isn't affiliated with the school or the school board (though they're supportive of it happening), it's simply a chance for families to come together in a safe neutral space to talk, listen, and share thoughts about the changes and evolution of our school community.
No agenda, no spin, just honest conversation, and connection.
Hope to see you there! If you don’t have childcare, please bring your kiddos!
Staff Highlights
This year we will be introducing you to a different staff member each week. We look forward to sharing things like why they love CMS, how they were introduced to the Montessori philosophy, and what they enjoy doing when they are not at school.
Andres Araiza
Upper Elementary Guide
(at CMS since 2022)
Q) How long have you worked at CMS?
A) I joined CMS in February 2022 as a Casita assistant in the Rosemary community. I then moved up to Upper Elementary, where I worked as an assistant for three school years, serving the Cypress and Redbud communities. I now have the honor of being the Lead Guide for Cypress. I've also worked a few summers supporting the Elementary and Children's House Summer Camps. I am so grateful for each of these experiences. They have helped me deepen my understanding of Montessori and form meaningful connections with children, staff, and parents throughout CMS.
Q) How did you come to discover Montessori and how has it impacted your life?
A) I first came across Montessori through a book, and I was struck by how it honored the whole child. I didn't realize at the time the impact that Montessori would have on my future. When I moved to Texas in 2022, that initial curiosity began to take shape, and it was CMS that gave me the opportunity to start my journey in Montessori. Since joining CMS, I've gotten married, started a family, earned a bachelor's degree, completed AMI 6-12 training, and stepped into the role of a Montessori guide. On top of that, my daughter is now in Casita, bringing things full circle for me. Montessori and specifically CMS have given so much to me. My only hope is to keep serving this wonderful school for as long as possible.
Q) What is something you would recommend for parents?
A) We are fortunate that Dr. Montessori was a prolific writer. While there are insightful books on Montessori written more recently, there is great value in going directly to the source. A few titles I recommend are To Educate the Human Potential, The Formation of Man, and Education and Peace. At home, I would recommend creating opportunities for children to take the lead, whether it's through cooking, planning a grocery store outing, or tackling small projects around the house. Of course, initial guidance is important, but the trust they feel in these moments is so fruitful to their growing independence and confidence.
Q) What do you do for fun outside of work?
A) Outside of work, I enjoy attending comedy shows and music festivals. I’ve also always been fascinated by ancient civilizations, and I love visiting archaeological sites whenever I can. I’ve had the privilege of exploring places like Teotihuacan, Tikal, Lamanai, Xunantunich, Caracol, and Angkor Wat, and I hope to one day visit Egypt and Peru! More than anything, what brings me the greatest joy these days is spending time with my wife and daughter. Whether we’re at home or out exploring together, finding ways to make them smile and laugh is what fills my cup the most.
CMS CALENDAR REMINDERS
- November 24-28 - Closed for Thanksgiving Break
Subscribe to our CMS Calendar: CLICK HERE
The mission of Community Montessori School is to provide authentic Montessori education
in a nature-rich environment that cultivates collaboration, curiosity,
love of learning, and respect for oneself, others, and the world.
