Who We Are: Michaela Herbst

Photo credit: Sweet Monday PhotographyAs part of a series we're calling Who We Are, we're working to build and connect our community by interviewing the talented, dynamic parents and staff who make up the people of Villa di Maria. Today, we meet Michaela Herbst, who is not only mother to a current Villa di Maria student, but is an alumni of Villa herself! Michaela attended Villa for primary and elementary. What a treat to hear from someone who has grown up Montessori and decided to return to the very same space for her children. Michaela and her husband Dan have two daughters and one on the way. Villa di Maria: What is it about Montessori that is special to you?Michaela Herbst: Montessori helped me develop into my best self in my elementary years. It brought out my love of learning in a way that more traditional school had not been able to do. This is even more special now as I have watched my daughter experience it from the very early age of 18 months. The way Montessori follows the child is just a very special thing to watch.VdM: Do you have a specific memory from Villa di Maria that is a favorite?MH: Wow! That is a tough one! So many amazing memories: the woods, capture the flag, the camp-outs, cooking hot lunch on Fridays… it would be hard to pick just one, but I'd have to say that building the deck as a class on the East side of the main building was one of my favorite accomplishments.VdM: What was one of your favorite lessons?MH: I enjoyed most of my lessons, but I ended up becoming so fond of Latin that I continued to take it throughout high school.VdM: Did anything prove to be particularly challenging in transitioning away from Montessori?MH: I do remember struggling with the structure and lack of independent learning opportunities granted to me in the public school I attended after leaving Upper Elementary at Villa. To this day I am not a fan of being told exactly when and how I should learn or do something.VdM: What advice would you give to younger children who will be leaving the Montessori environment and attending a more traditional school environment?MH: Cherish every moment, every lesson, every friendship. Each one is a unique building block and together they create an amazing foundation for a lifetime love of learning.Thank you, Michaela, for giving us the unique perspective of a former Villa student and current parent. We are so happy you are a part of our community! 

Loose Parts Play: A Montessori Playground

There's a minimalist thing that has been going on in the open play spaces at Villa di Maria for years, and it's not from lack of resources. The logs, buckets, wood chips, stumps, chalk, sticks, stones, and naturally moveable pieces that litter the school grounds are not junk; rather, they are the evidence of the children's collective creativity. What architect Simon Nicholson proposed as "loose parts" in 1972, they are the materials that can be moved around, carried, redesigned, repurposed, and reimagined to become anything a child can imagine. Nicholson believed that the loose parts in our environment are what inspire and empower our creativity (read his original paper from 1972 here). The open-ended play that results from loose parts — the sticks and logs and things found in nature, provided by nature itself, allows for deep creative experimentation: the crucial element being the children's freedom to adapt the materials in a large variety of ways. These logs can become structures, machines, vehicles, absolutely anything a child (or group of children) decides.The power of loose parts lies in its infinite possibilities. It does not dictate a story or purpose; the child does so.If you are interested in creating more loose parts play for your child, consider the following in your back yard: stones of varying size, slices of wood rounds, sticks, pinecones, sand, wood chips, chalk, gravel, acorns, planks, tubes, and wheels.For indoors: popsicle sticks, dominos, wood blocks, felt balls, yarn, pipe cleaners, marbles, cardboard tubes, washers, buttons, shells, magnetic building tiles, strips of fabric (silk, wool, cotton), and even dried seeds or beans!Happy playing!

Who We Are: Thomas Jöstlein

As part of a series we're calling Who We Are, we're working to build and connect our community by interviewing the talented, dynamic parents and staff who make up the people of Villa di Maria. Today, we meet Thomas Jöstlein, musician and father of two here at Villa di Maria. He and his musical family are an integral part of our community, often contributing the the musical culture of the school. On Symphony day, Thomas can be seen waving to the students of Villa di Maria (he's the tall one in the back of the orchestra with a wide, friendly smile). Villa di Maria: Thank you for taking the time to talk, Thomas! What is it that you do, career-wise and also any hobbies you enjoy?Thomas Jöstlein: Thank you for having me! I play French horn in the St. Louis Symphony. I'm in my 7th season. Before settling here, I've been able to travel all over the world. The most exotic tour I've ever done is playing a live international broadcast in North Korea in 2008 for the New York Philharmonic.As far as hobbies go, I really enjoy tennis, and reading German books to my boys in the morning. I also enjoy playing cello with my youngest son in the morning. My wife Tricia practices violin with our oldest son. Most of all, I enjoy exploring the world with my kids.VdM: What is it about Montessori that appeals to you and Tricia?TJ: We were introduced to Montessori through a parent at our previous school who suggested that we check it out. Our oldest was six when he started here. We did a tour of the school and met one of the lower elementary directresses and just really liked her. Also, seeing the calm in the classroom, the constant work and focus of the children on their work was a huge selling-point. It's meditative, really. And the cooperative element speaks a lot to me as a member of a 90-piece orchestra. In my job, that's essential. There is a cooperative system in Montessori that is so much like that world.There's a teaching system in Venezuela called El Sistema, which is a publicly-financed voluntary music education program, where once a child learns an instrument or song, they immediately teach the younger students. There's a parallel with that program that I see in Montessori that I really love. The mixed-age classrooms encourage that dynamic, as well as providing an opportunity for children to move ahead in a way they wouldn't if they were stuck in restrictive same-age, same-grade classrooms. We love the mixed-age classrooms. It's not fraught with competition; rather, it's collaborative.VdM: What advice would you give to parents who are interested in Montessori?TJ: Talk to parents of current Montessori students. It's the best way to learn about the method and what it's all about. Of course, also visit, because there are different Montessori schools, so it is important that you see the place for yourself.Thank you, Thomas! We are so happy that your family is a part of this wonderful community!

Upper Elementary Talks with Artist Mohau Modisakeng

This year, the Upper Elementary class has had many art-related learning opportunities right at their fingertips. Recently, they had the honor of viewing South African artist Mohau Modisakeng's exhibit before it was open to the public, and sat down (quite literally) to talk with him about his moving, personal photography and videography. Modisakeng was born in Soweto and hails from Cape Town and Johannesburg. In his art, he uses his own image to become a "mediator of the pain" (Art historian Dr. Ruth Simbao) of the difficult, often brutal history of the post-apartheid world of South Africa. In this exhibit, Modisakeng explains to the children what each element in the photographs represents: the axes and machetes linked to the physically demanding plantation work of South Africa, the black hat represents Modisakeng's view of manhood in his culture as well as a nod to self, the horse blinders a representation for looking forward out of oppression, the feet painted white to represent the settlement of white Europeans as they first set foot onto the land of South Africa to colonize.The Upper Elementary students began with a talk in their classroom about the gravity of Modisakeng's work, as well as a review on South Africa's history of apartheid, then headed over to view the work. The students were reflective and respectful during the viewing and talk. When they sat with Modisakeng to ask questions about his work, they presented him with some wonderful questions and observations.While some children focused on the feelings they observed in themselves while viewing the work, others asked about the technique and place the photographs were taken, about the objects used in the work, and about Modisakeng's experiences (both physical and emotional) creating the work. Modisakeng did a wonderful job giving voice to his experiences, despite those experiences being challenging and difficult at times.Modisakeng also took his time allowing each child to ask more questions than he had time allotted! He clearly valued their curiosity and level of engagement. And they also seemed to appreciate the experience. What an honor!

Who We Are: Jay Fram

As part of a series we're calling Who We Are, we're working to build our community by interviewing the talented, dynamic parents and staff who make up the people of Villa di Maria. Today, we meet Jay Fram, professional photographer and father of two boys who attend Villa di Maria. Jay is not only an artistic asset to the city of St. Louis, he is a thoughtful, intelligent, approachable human being who has given a lot of thought to his boys' education (and, judging from the photo below -- taken from Jay's personal work -- is not afraid to really put himself out there). Villa di Maria: What do you do?Jay Fram: I'm a photographer. But answering this question is often a process of outlining what I'm not. I'm not a real estate photographer. I'm not a wedding photographer. I take pictures of people for advertising and editorial or corporate purposes. I don't have as much time as I'd like to pursue fine art. But it's a competitive field, so I feel really privileged to get the work I do.VdM: What is it about Montessori that appeals to you and your wife Jackie?JF: Well, Jackie went to a Montessori preschool when she was young. I had a close friend growing up whose mother ran a Montessori. Although I didn't attend one, I was definitely exposed to Montessori while growing up.Montessori appeals to our contrarian, artsy, lefty tendencies. We like to think of ourselves as free thinkers. We got into Montessori in a practical way; we were living in Webster at the time, and we found ourselves suddenly losing our nanny. Our oldest son was at the time almost old enough to go to preschool. Villa was willing to take him at two-and-a-half, so it worked out for us. Then we ended up liking it so much that we kept him there. He was thriving so much socially and academically that we decided to keep him there for elementary.Our youngest (age 3) is also doing really well. What he gets out of it is different from his brother. He's a feeler, whereas our oldest is more of a thinker. The Montessori environment is pretty neat. He writes so many stories, he really just cranks them out. I'm also really excited about the level of mathematics he's doing at this age. He's coming home with long division problems, which I think is pretty amazing.On the writing piece -- I went to a rural school from my early years up until 8th grade and there were kids I graduated with who could barely write. It's important to me that our kids know how to do these things!VdM: Do your kids express any interest in the arts?JF: I would like to get them into music. Our oldest really likes to listen to it. He draws a lot, but I guess I expect my youngest to be more art-oriented. We recently took them both to see The Ugly Duckling production at COCA, and they both really enjoyed it.VdM: What advice would you give to parents who are curious about or interested in Montessori?JF: I think observing in the classroom is pretty convincing. If you're on the fence, that sensory experience of being there in the primary classroom is amazing. If you find yourself unsettled by the appearance of some disorganization, then maybe it's not for you. But it's amazing to see the self-direction of these little kids.My advice would be to trust that the directresses are invested and attuned to what's going on with the classroom and the kids. They are also very available to learn from the parents about their children, which we have had direct experience with, with the directresses at Villa. My mom always says that our kids will have to get along in the real world and learn to thrive in environments that aren't always ideal, and that will strengthen them for a world where they will have to deal with different types of people and situations. I think Villa does that; it seems to me that Villa is a respite from a lot of the stressors of work and life. I don't want to shelter my kids. That's a part of the experience I have to trust.Thank you, Jay, for taking the time to sit down and talk, and for the fantastic picture of you in mid-sneeze. To see more of Jay's incredible photography, be sure to visit his website and his gorgeous instagram account. *All photos in this post are courtesy of Jay Fram. 

Boo Fest 2016

Thanks to the hard work of Tami (who had a vision and made it happen), Kathy, and Bussy — along with all the other parent volunteers who put in many extra hours of creativity and busy hands — this year's Boo Fest was a huge success! Words cannot express how much fun the children had. There were many "This is the best night of my life!"-type comments overheard by the parents and staff! There was so much thought put into each game and activity. These parents and children are quite a creative bunch! Our fearless leader...There were some pretty amazing costumes, of course...… as well as some pretty creepy ones!It's a pretty great community, no doubt. Happy Halloween from Villa di Maria!

Who We Are: Maria Burr

As part of a series we're calling Who We Are, we're working to build our community by interviewing the talented, dynamic parents and staff who make up the people of Villa di Maria. Today, we meet Maria Burr, founder of the Montessori Bambini Guide and mother to three children at Villa. Maria is a familiar face at Villa -- you will often see her smiling face at drop-off every morning. She is a kind, warm, intelligent person who is quite easy to talk to -- so make sure you say hello when you see her!Villa di Maria: Thank you for being our first Who We Are interviewee! What do you do?Maria Burr: Here at Villa, I work as the development director, which includes getting ready for the upcoming Capital Campaign and the 50th anniversary of Villa di Maria! It will also be the 70th anniversary for Camp Pegnita!I also created the Bambini Guide, which serves parents of Montessori or prospective Montessori children from the prenatal period up through age three. I run classes for expectant parents that cover preparing the home, development of movement, and development of language — all in the context of understanding child development and in an effort to prepare for the Montessori environment. My parent-infant classes are for ages 3 months through 12 months and take place in a Montessori-prepared environment. We also discuss child development within that setting. Parent nights are available for those who want to meet without their infants to discuss more in-depth how to prepare your home for Montessori. All of these classes are held at the Montessori Training Center.Below are a few of the smaller materials Maria presents within these classes: From left: cylinder rattle with bells, cube with bell, egg and cupVdM: Why Montessori?MB: It comes from the heart. I really wanted something for my kids that went beyond academics. We chose Montessori because it really does develop the whole child. It's not about external rewards; it's about helping them become complete people, not just smart people.VdM: What advice would you give to parents who are interested in Montessori, or to those who are just entering the Montessori world?MB: Absolutely observe in a classroom. Read a book. For the young child, I recommend Montessori from the Start: The Child at Home, from Birth to Age Three. For elementary children, read Montessori Madness, by Trevor Eissler.Thank you, Maria! 

Lower Elementary Play Date

The first play dates of the school year have been great successes! From playgrounds to picnics to get-togethers out in nature, the Villa di Maria kids have been enjoying each other's company outside of their school environments. Here, photos from Mrs. Schwind's Lower Elementary class play date at Shaw Nature Reserve this past Saturday afternoon. The weather was perfect, the company even better!The younger (and older) siblings of the Lower Elementary kids had just as much fun as their brothers and sisters! It is a joy to see these budding friendships and to observe the older students taking care of and including their friends' little brothers and sisters. It really does take a village, and that village is made of all different age groups!Outdoor natural climbing structures allow for this age group to test and challenge their bodies, and to create elaborate pretend games that often focus on group and social dynamics. This group quickly formed small packs and ran through the nature's classroom space and the surrounding woods together.A few of the older siblings brought nets and containers and successfully caught fish from the large pond. "There used to be two fish in this container, but the big fish must have been hungry…"Let's hope for more of this glorious weather!

Becoming REALLY Real...

Villa di Maria Head of School, Laura Ceretti-Michelman snapped these photos on campus today and shared that the Primary children were absolutely mesmerized by the site preparation.  As a tree went down, they all screamed, "Nooooooo!"  So hard to watch some of our beauties be removed to make room for the new buildings. The Elementary children were also watching the action.  Note to families- every effort was made to save as many as our mature trees as possible while plans were made for the construction.  Also note that new trees will be planted when it's all said and done!

Inside...? Outside...?

Our Upper El contingency, pondering...

Oh, you most extraordinarily-passionate, super-starrish Villa di Maria staff members,What are you MOST looking forward to for the upcoming school year both...1.  INSIDE the classroom (or on campus)?2.  OUTSIDE of Villa di Maria Montessori School?

Mrs. Reghan McAuley and Mrs. Jess Jente- Our Primary One PeepsReghan McAuley, Primary Directress (P1)INSIDE:  Being back with the children, introducing our new frog friend named Camouflage and working with my awesome partner, Mrs. Jente!OUTSIDE:  Meeting Mrs. Jente's baby, the start-up of the MAP (Montessori Adolescent Program) and a mother-daughter trip with my oldest child, Brennah, in her 14th yearJess Jente, Primary Assistant (P1)INSIDE:  Meeting and welcoming all the new families into our community- I love seeing all the new faces and getting to know everyone!  (Also, Pajama Day- my favorite day of the year!)OUTSIDE:  Having a baby!  I cannot wait to welcome Baby Jente into the world in January! I love the fresh flowers in a Children's House (especially when paired with a freshly sewn tablecloth and apron!)Jessie Braud, Primary Directress (P2)INSIDE:  Excited for all the warm fuzzies I get from children working with materials I've presented to them!OUTSIDE:  Excited to (hopefully!) work on some art projects!Cristina Kerr, Primary Assistant (P2)INSIDE:  At school, I'm looking forward to meeting all the new children, working with Jessie and observing all the construction work.OUTSIDE:  I set some priorities this year:  spending more time with family and friends, enjoying the present and finishing our home projects. The two newest "friends" in P3 who will be living with Mrs. Heather SteinmanHeather Steinman, Primary Directress (P3)INSIDE:  Being around my favorite little people every day!OUTSIDE:  Watching how our community grows and changes with all the exciting new happenings.Karolina Hanus, Primary Assistant (P3)INSIDE:  To be in a running classroom (versus empty!)OUTSIDE:  To learn how to park in the crowded parking lot! Mrs. Megan Eilers (right) ready to roll in her NEW role as our second Lower Elementary Directress!Megan Eilers, Lower Elementary Directress (LE 1)INSIDE:  I'm looking forward to getting to know all of the children in my class!OUTSIDE: Looking forward to cooler weather and fall festivities! Mrs. Sophie's favorite place at VdM- the solariumSophie Andre, Lower Elementary Assistant (LE 1)INSIDE:  I can't wait to see the children I already know and notice how they've changed over the summer as well as discover the students I don't know yet!OUTSIDE:  I am very excited to see how my daughter, Lynne, is going to love her own classroom, starting with Ms. Braud in the Primary.Anna Schwind, Lower Elementary Directress (LE 2)INSIDE:  Yooooogggaaaa!OUTSIDE:  Yooooogggaaaa! Mrs. Rebecca Callander and Mr. Justin Shepard- SUPER PSYCHED to lead our Upper Elementary at our Laumeier satellite campus this school year during the first phase of construction at VdM!

Rebecca Callander, Upper Elementary Directress (UE)INSIDE:  Having many eyeballs look at an eyeball during read aloud!OUTSIDE:  Exploring the satellite campus grounds with 30 amazing upper elementary explorers!Mary Eilers, Morning Floater and Early Stay LeadINSIDE:  I am looking forward to getting to know all the students and watching them grow educationally.OUTSIDE:  I'm looking forward to watching the transformation of the campus.Hilary Lord, Director of OperationsINSIDE:  Developing the new outdoor spaces along Simmons and Belva AvenuesOUTSIDE:  Hanging out with our new dogMaria Burr, Development DirectorINSIDE:  I'm excited to see the construction of the new buildings!OUTSIDE:  Two hundred fifty hours of observations with children ages 0 to 3 years! Explanation:  I asked the staff to send pictures of themselves in their environments or in their VdM "happy place" for this blog post.   Well, this spot is my "place," the door to that special land where the Mottl kids' "Montessori-ness" began.  Where K spent three years and B spent four.  Where their natural curiosity and innate drive to LEARN and DO was nurtured and their individual selves were oh-so loved.Meg Mottl, Director of AdmissionsINSIDE:  Seeing all of our brand-new-to-VdM students and families fall in love with the genius of Maria Montessori and soak in their experience at Villa di Maria!OUTSIDE:  All things Mottl kids!Robyn Milos, Director of EducationINSIDE:  I am looking forward to observing in EACH classroom. Each of our carefully prepared environments looks SO beautiful, inviting and well loved. I cannot wait to see them filled with the joy that only children bring.OUTSIDE:  I am feeling bittersweet on this year being Seth's last year at VdM, the final year of an amazing decade!!!  Along with that, it is Ollie's last year in the Children's House.  Where did the time go?!?!  AND, my first year out of the Children's House!!  I am excited to serve Villa in my new role.Laura Ceretti-Michelman, Head of SchoolINSIDE:  I am most looking forward to the return of children and families because they bring our school to life!  I am also super excited to watch the progress of the buildings as construction moves along!OUTSIDE:  I am most excited about the conclusion of the construction/revamping project that has been going on in our home since last February.  Now we get to settle in and enjoy the results!