Multicultural Diversity

There are many strengths that TMA reaps from its multicultural diversity, not the least of which is giving children first hand knowledge of different cultures around the world . . . what better way to nurture world peace than by learning to celebrate and embrace our differences and not to fear them.

Our school is a small-scale global community, with staff and student families representing more than 20 countries. TMA's student population is also ethnically diverse: 59.5% Caucasian; 15.6% Asian; 9.3% African-American; 4.6% Hispanic; and 11.0% multi-racial.

Outstanding Elementary Achievement Levels

Academically, levels of achievement are high as measured by standardized testing. Average grade level ITBS (Iowa Test of Basic Skills) scores for TMA elementary students consistently rank in the upper 90th percentiles (national school percentile rank) when compared with other private, parochial and public schools whose students took the same test. This result is produced in a population where 20% have diagnosed learning differences.

The outstanding elementary achievement levels bear witness to a strong curriculum and teaching staff, especially considering the diversity of our students' abilities and that no admission test is required.

Inclusion

Children who have diagnosed learning differences or disabilities are integrated into our classroom communities and are referred for specific services to outside specialists as needed. At the present time, TMA has students in the elementary program who have been diagnosed with Autism, Attention Deficit Disorder, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and other learning differences. The number of students in a classroom with diagnosed learning differences is limited to ensure that all children's needs can be met.

Reading

The Montessori curriculum nurtures early readers. This year our first graders, as a group, scored in the 97th percentile in reading. Reading skills are developed and strengthened through student, parent and community reading partners who listen to readers one-on-one.

Vertical Integration

The unique opportunity to work with children from 18 months of age on with a faculty which shares the same philosophy of education allows for a continuity of the educational process for each student that very few other schools can offer.

Accreditation

In 1994, TMA became only the second school in Texas to be nationally accredited by the American Montessori Society (AMS), an achievement we are very proud of and are firmly committed to. The AMS accreditation provides accountability and assurance of authenticity to families seeking Montessori education for their children.

Conflict Resolution

We are a conflict positive school where problems represent opportunities for improvement. Poor choices by children represent opportunities for them to be responsible and accountable for their actions and sharpen their problem-solving skills. Beginning in the toddler classes, children are told to use their words to solve problems. Preschool-age children are encouraged to talk through their problems with other students, with a teacher mediating as necessary. Kindergarten and 1st-3rd elementary children receive weekly instruction in conflict resolution. 4th-6th graders receive Peer Mediation training and serve as Peer Mediators for younger elementary children.

Partnerships with Parents

TMA is committed to developing partnerships with parents. Parent involvement is not only encouraged, but also required as a condition of enrollment in the enrollment contract. Parent involvement opportunities range from serving in the classroom to policy-making in the Boardroom.