SCR 17: Montessori Month

WHEREAS, Dr. Maria Montessori, a native of Italy whose observations of children and their development led her to design what has come to be known as the Montessori Method of education, provided to the world a great departure from the educational philosophies of the early 20th century and instituted a movement that has spanned the globe and continues today to influence educational practices throughout California, the United States, and the world; and

WHEREAS, A system for the education of children from birth through secondary schools, the Montessori program focuses upon providing materials, techniques, and experiences that support the learners’ natural development and encourages children to “learn how to learn,” to gain independence and self-confidence, and to promote the principles of peace and responsible world citizenship; and

WHEREAS, The Montessori Method is based upon thoughtful observation of individual children and includes developmental teaching, one-to-one lessons, and the promotion of respect among the children and peace to humankind; and

WHEREAS, In February 2025, Montessorians will celebrate the 118th anniversary of the first Montessori school; and

WHEREAS, There are hundreds of public and private Montessori schools in California; and

WHEREAS, It is fitting and proper that we recognize the immeasurable contributions of California’s Montessori schools, and congratulate all Montessorians upon the 118th anniversary of the first Montessori school; and

WHEREAS, There is a need for more qualified and credentialed teachers in California; and

WHEREAS, Twelve states currently offer pathways for teachers with Montessori credentials to qualify for public school teacher certification or licensure; and

WHEREAS, The Commission on Teacher Credentialing is currently in discussions around recognizing the significance of Montessori certification as an alternative pathway to earning Child Development Permits; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature designates February 2025 as Montessori Month in California, and urges all Californians to take note of that month and to participate fittingly in its observance; and be it further

Resolved, That the Legislature hereby recognizes our state’s many Montessori schools as valuable educational resources in their communities; and be it further

Resolved, That the Legislature pays tribute to the long and distinguished history of the Montessori Method and to the teachers, both past and present, who have contributed immeasurably to the education of our citizens; and be it further

Resolved, That the Legislature encourages the Commission on Teacher Credentialing to work quickly towards approving a pathway for Montessorians to obtain Child Development Permits and to contemplate the creation of additional Montessori pathways; and be it further

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.