Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prepare for the course?

The best preparation for taking the course is to organize your schedule in anticipation of becoming a full time student. Clearing one’s schedule of commitments, activities, and appointments prior to the course will allow students to give full attention to course related work and participation during class time. If you have children we also recommend that you arrange a minimum of two alternative child care arrangements in the case of any unanticipated family circumstances.

Can I have a job during the course?

Due to the intensive nature of the course we recommend that students are not employed while attending the course.

What materials should I bring for taking notes?

Students should be prepared for daily extensive written note-taking. Many students find a laptop computer useful, while others prefer to hand-write their notes. Outlets will be available for laptops.

On any given day during each lecture period of the course, students should be prepared to take notes for a variety of information, including: theory topics, text for exercises, sketches of the materials, book references, songs and poetry, teaching tips and techniques. Spiral notebooks (or 3-ring binders) with lined paper and subject dividers can work well to accessibly organize this variety of course information.

Your daily notes are the basis for various course assignments. All students will need regular access to a computer and printer as written assignments are preferable typed. Internet access will be helpful as it is not available at the Institute, but it is not a requirement for assignments.

Is time allotted for student questions? Is the Director of Training available to see me if I have a question or issue I would like to discuss privately?

There will be opportunities for clarification during a lecture, and time will be allotted for questions as the schedule permits; written questions are always welcome and will be answered either in writing to the sender or in class for the group. Students can schedule an appointment with the Director of Training to discuss specific questions or issues that might not be applicable to the whole group.

The TMI website refers to budgeting $700 for books, paper, projects, and other course related expenses.

What are these expenses?

The curriculum albums and other materials the students prepare can vary widely in cost. Often students create beautiful albums and materials by using items they already own or that they purchase for a relatively low cost. It is practical to assume that there will be some supplies needed for album creation, such as paper, 3-ring binders, page protectors as desired, and art-media. Students should be prepared to spend some time and money acquiring these (See supply list below.)

Guidelines for material making will be clarified during the course. Each student will be responsible for making several materials. Kits are provided at cost for students. Most kits are required for the first summer (See material list below.)

Students are also required to purchase books and timelines. Timelines will be purchased or ordered while at the Institute. Many books can be purchased elsewhere (www.nienhuis.com), while a few can only be purchased through the Institute.

What will the assignment schedule be?

Assignments will be given on a weekly basis. Assignments are turned in on Monday morning and returned Tuesday afternoon of the following week.

What supplies will I need?

1.   Curriculum Manual Binders (sturdy Three Ring Binders)
2.   Typing, computer or copy paper on which to write curriculum manuals
3.   Pens
4.   Pencils
5.   Colored Pencils – good assortment of colors for timeline and illustrations
6.   ”Sharpies” – fine and/or extra fine points – in red, blue, black, purple, orange, green, yellow, brown – or other type of indelible pen to write on plastic
7.   Ruler with inches and metric measurements – important!
8.   Tape measure with inches and metric measurements – important!
9.   Scissors
10.   Paper Clips
11.   Glue, Rubber Cement
12.   Hand sewing supplies, i.e., thread, needles, scissors
13.   Paper for Prenatal Timeline*
14.   Plastic overlay for Prenatal Timeline*
15.   Pocket folders – 3 for turning in assignments
16.   Spiral notebooks or loose-leaf binder and paper for taking daily notes
17.   Camera (if you have one) and photo paper for printing
18.   Any computer supplies you might need if you are using one for the course
19.   Indoor shoes – to be worn only inside while at the Institute to keep our environment clean

*These items are usually purchased in bulk by students at lower costs during the summer.

Due to the size of the TMI group this year, the TMI office will not be able to lend out office supplies such as rulers, scissors, etc. Please plan accordingly! Having your own items such as scissors, tape measure, colored pencils, etc. will save you a lot of time during practicals. You will use these things regularly.

What materials will I be required to make other than albums?

First Summer:
Topponcino     (kit is $30.00)
Silk or cotton undershirt     (kit is $5.00)
Mobile     (kits are $12)
Tablecloth, napkin, bib     (approximately $l0.00 to make)
Prenatal Time Line*
Psychomotor Development Time Line           ($50.00)**
Medical Text ($40.00)

Second Summer:
2 or 3 toys from 1st Summer
2 Practical Life Exercises
1 Set of Language Objects
1 Set of Language Cards with Matching Objects
1 Set of Language Cards only
1 Fishing Bag with Contents
1 Gluing Box (kit is $25.00)

* Paper and plastic overlay for this timeline are usually purchased in bulk by the students to save costs. Actual price will vary.

**The first 12 months are completed the first summer; 12 – 36 months completed 2nd summer

It is advised that each student budget at least $500 to $600 to cover the cost of the above plus the materials used in producing the curriculum manuals (see above list of suggested needed supplies). The $500 to $600 will cover the cost of required materials but not optional materials. Please keep this in mind when you budget and/or begin spending for photos, and other optional items.

Prices for several items that TMI sells are listed above. The TMI store also sells other classroom materials.

Where can I find the books from the required reading list?

The required reading list can be found at this link. TMI sells Understanding the Human Being, The Medical Text and The Human Tendencies. The books written by Montessori on the required reading list can be purchased through www.Nienhus.com. Other books can be found at www.Amazon.com or your local bookstore.

What are the parameters of the 250-hour interim year observation requirement?

The 250 hours of observation must be completed between the two summers. The following is the breakdown for the different age groups: Birth to 8 weeks – 50 hours (conducted in any environment,) 8 weeks to 12 months – 100 hours (conducted in any environment,) 12-36 months – 100 hours (40 hours in a community of any kind, 40 hours in a home, 20 hours in any environment.)

Will all students’ Albums look the same?

All students will see and record the same demonstration of a lesson, but will describe this in their albums in their own words. Our goal is for each student to create albums that will represent the Montessori theory and precise use of the materials, yet also reflect the distinct voice of the individual. Students are required to label provided material illustrations and color some. Labeling should be done in pen and the illustrations may be colored in pencil, marker, or your preferred method. Photographs of materials are an accepted addition.

Is student housing provided for traveling students?

The majority of our students travel from some other part of the country or world. Housing is the responsibility of the student, but the administrative staff is happy to assist with this process. We have many regular renters who entrust their homes with our students during the summer.

What is the cost of living in Denver?

Housing and transportation costs are the responsibility of the student. Housing costs can range from $400 to $1200 and up per month depending on the situation. Food expenses vary from $300-$500 per month. Denver has an excellent public transportation system (RTD) which includes city buses and light rail. Monthly bus passes can be purchased for your convenience at $79/month. For more information on public transportation in Denver, please go to www.rtd-denver.com.

Does TMI offer any scholarships or financial aid?

TMI does not offer scholarships. We provide two loan plans for those interested. (Link for loan plan). Association Montessori International does offer a financial scholarship for training center applicants which applies to TMI. Please visit www.amiusa.org for financial aid opportunities.

Can my Montessori school sponsor me or can I find a school to sponsor me?

Many schools send sponsored teachers for training. Loan options also apply to schools sponsoring a student. If you are searching for a sponsorship, please contact TMI or go to www.amiusa.org to visit the sponsorship program.

Does TMI offer student VISAs for international students?

TMI does not qualify to offer student VISAs, as our training is too short. Once students are accepted, they will receive a letter helping them to acquire a tourist VISA for the short duration of each summer.

Does TMI offer translation services for students?

It is the responsibility of students needing translation to hire and pay for this service.

What is the daily schedule? How much time do I need to devote outside of class?

Students are in class full time from 8:00 am to 4:30 Monday through Thursday and 8:00 to 3:00 on Fridays. You can expect to do at least an additional 15 hours per week outside of classes. Below is a sample of a week’s schedule.

Sample of a First Summer Student’s Week Schedule:
Monday:
8:00 Lecture Begins (Absorbent Mind)
Turn in assignment from last week.
8:50 Break
9:00 Lecture resumes
9:50 Break
10:00 Lecture resumes
11:30 Lunch
12:30 Lecture Begins (Observation Theory)
12:50 Break
1:00 Lecture resumes
1:50 Break
2:00 Lecture resumes
2:50 Break
3:30 Practicals
4:20 Community Clean up (Jobs)
4:30 Day ends

Tuesday:
8:00 Lecture Begins (Home Envrionment)
(same break schedule as Monday)
11:30 Lunch
12:30 Lecture begins (Sensitive Periods)
(same break schedule)
3:30 Practicals
4:20 Jobs
Last week’s assignments returned
4:30 Day ends

Wednesday and Thursday:
Same structure as Tuesday

Friday:
8:00 Lecture (Obstetrics cont’d)
11:30 Lunch at the park
1:00 Theory Discussion Groups (at park or Institute)
2:30 Jobs
2:45 Day ends

What is the Loyola Cooperative Master’s Program?

Loyola College of Maryland and Training Centers of the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) developed this cooperative program in 1994. This graduate program acknowledges the high level of work required in AMI Training Courses and translates the AMI coursework into graduate level credit. Graduates receive both the internationally recognized AMI diploma and the Master of Education degree. Students must have a bachelor’s in order to apply for this program.

What additional course work is required for the students participating in the Master’s program?

The Masters cooperative program includes additional course work beyond the AMI teacher training requirements. In addition to the credits earned on-site at Loyola College, the participating students also have some enhanced expectations in the AMI Training Course itself. For example, theory papers are expected to have a deeper foundation in the readings and a more extensive bibliography. A grade will be assigned for this work. The specific details for each assignment will be communicated to participants as the assignment approaches. In addition, students will have five summers after graduating from TMI to attend a three-week intensive program onsite at Loyola College in Maryland.

What are the advantages of participating in the Loyola College M.Ed. program while attending The Montessori Institute?

The Loyola M.Ed. program translates the AMI coursework into graduate level credit. Upon completion, graduates receive both the internationally recognized AMI diploma and the Master of Education degree. For those unfamiliar with Montessori, the M.Ed. is a more widely recognizable validation of the intensive course of study undertaken by AMI Teachers. A Master’s degree can enhance professional prospects by facilitating opportunities to work within public education systems and to work internationally. Some Montessori programs also offer economic advantages to employees who have earned the M.Ed.

What should I know about related costs and financial aid for the Cooperative Programs?

Federal financial aid is available through the Loyola College financial aid office. Students should apply for sufficient funds to cover tuition for the AMI Teacher Training Course and the additional tuition and fees paid directly to their cooperating institution. This amount can also include living expenses and travel for the Loyola onsite summer session and expenses and tuition for TMI.

Can you tell me more about the on-site summer component of the Loyola M.Ed. program?

Upon completion of the AMI Training course, 9 additional Loyola credits are required to complete the Master’s program. These additional credits must be completed in residence at Loyola College in Maryland during a special intensive summer session. The course of study for the summer session helps broaden an understanding of the educational field and functions as a time for students to prepare for the creation of two academic papers that are due later the next fall. Students from AMI training centers at all levels throughout the country will be in attendance. Once a student is enrolled in the cooperative M.Ed. program, they have five years to complete the summer session at Loyola.

If you have any additional questions about the teacher training course, feel free to contact The Montessori Institute, 303-832-6781, or tmiami@mac.com