The Elementary Years
Ages 6-12

The elementary child is driven by natural curiosity, needing to figure out the interconnectedness of the world around him, and her place in the world.

Maria Montessori used the term cosmic education to refer to the education of the elementary child. Cosmic education sparks excitement, enthusiasm and wonder in a child. According to Montessori philosophy, education is not just about math, grammar, and science. Through cosmic education, children learn about the interconnectedness of the world. The children come to understand their role in the world, their potential, and the nature of their own “cosmic task.” Peace and gratitude are a consistent theme in the cosmic education curriculum.

Maria Montessori believed that the way to restore order and harmony in the world was through the education of the child. Children are our future.  

The Elementary Classroom


Great Lessons are curriculum rooted in storytelling that spark the child’s imagination. From this base, the children learn about the creation of the universe, the formation of the planets and stars, the coming of plant and animal life, and the arrival of humans. Great Lessons explain the origins of language and math, geometry and the sciences. Through these stories, the children develop an awareness and understanding of the way things were, how we came to be, and the interdependence of life, and they come to appreciate what came before them.

The lead teacher, or guide, is critical in a Montessori elementary classroom. The guide is the storyteller, introducing the lessons that inspire the children to follow up on their interests and to explore the connections between different subjects. The same guide follows each child for a three-year cycle, allowing the guide to be in tune with the unique personality and learning style of each child.

Many Rivers Montessori’s Elementary program is recognized by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) as meeting its stringent accreditation requirements.

Many Rivers Montessori’s Elementary program serves children aged 6 to 12 years. The program meets five days a week between 8:30 and 3:30. Morning Care (7:30–8:30) and Afternoon Care (3:30–5:30) are available. Child Care is also available during most holidays and breaks. For tuition costs and packages, please see our tuition schedule.

“As a current MRM parent of kids in kindergarten and fourth grade, we consider it a privilege to have our children growing up in such a supportive and inspiring community. At MRM, our kids receive the tailored support they need while being encouraged to strive for their best selves both in and out of school. Over the past four years, we’ve witnessed educational growth in an environment that not only provides unwavering support and love but also challenges our children daily. Witnessing them radiate confidence as they leave school each day brings us profound joy. I have witnessed firsthand the dedicated guidance, care, and teaching our remarkable guides offer the children on a daily basis.”

~ Annie Call, MRM Parent


Many Rivers Montessori values diversity in every aspect of the school community. It is the policy of MRM not to discriminate in violation of the law on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability in the administration of its admissions policies, educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs and other school-related programs.