Woodbridge began as a Montessori school, though has in the past few years refocused attention on providing a more intimate interface between teachers and students. Most obvious is the change in name, something that signals the rededication of the program as a preparatory school. More importantly is the introduction of STEM education, and the move within the kindergarten years away from play-based to learning-based instruction.
Some things remain, of course, such as an attention to providing a safe, comfortable, a space that is organized, familiar, friendly, and which allows for children to work actively with one another at a range of hands-on tasks. Likewise, the school has made a priority of hiring specialty teachers within all of the core curricular areas.
There’s a lot to love. Experienced Italian and Mandarin instructors run the signature language program. One of the things that further distinguishes the Woodbridge offering is the extent of the physical education facility, which is impressive in every way: the gym is a 20,000 square foot sports complex.
With new administration, the Woodbridge program continues to grow and adapt to the community it serves. The school has a weekly open house session for new families to visit the school, and see students within the classroom settings. The administration righty suggests that prospective families plan to visit the school at least three times. “The first visit is always wonderful,” says the admissions director, “the second and the third visits allow a better sense of the fitness of the program to the learner, and gives parents a better sense of what’s going on within the school.” Which is a lot, though that perspective demonstrates the school's desire to work with families to make sure the relationship is right for all involved.
For details on the open house events, or to speak with the admissions team, visit http://www.ourkids.net/school/woodbridge-montessori-school/1117
