The Montessori method is practiced in classrooms worldwide, but its impact extends far beyond academics. Dr. Maria Montessori’s earliest classrooms were in the impoverished neighborhoods of Rome, and her work in India during World War II helped lay the foundation for an inclusive, global movement that continues to thrive today.
Grace Montessori School is proud to carry on Dr. Maria Montessori’s legacy through a new sister school partnership with the Nairobi Intime Community School, located in the Mathare area of Kenya’s capital.
Starting in the Spring of 2025, the sister school program features a pen pal exchange, where students share artwork and letters, expanding knowledge, culture, friendships, and personal growth for children on both sides of the Atlantic. The program is rooted in the Montessori tradition of fostering a deep appreciation for diversity through hands-on learning about world cultures.
Grace Montessori School’s Founder Cathy Reid’s deep belief in the transformative power of Montessori education led her to connect with Intime Community School, and what began as a shared philosophy quickly blossomed into a partnership. Cathy made several trips to Kenya to meet with school leaders, deliver Montessori materials and introduce teachers to the principles of Dr. Maria Montessori.
“Part of the exhaustion of the trip was the daily exposure to the extreme needs of the school and community,” said Cathy. “During that time, I concluded that I can only focus on what I know best and where I have the most experience: Educational needs. To that end, I put out an appeal for a donation of $1,100 to cover the cost of a computer, printer, internet cable installation at the school, 12 months of internet, and a supply of paper and ink.”
An anonymous donor responded to Cathy’s appeal, gifting $1,100 to the school. The donation enabled continued teacher training through Skype or Zoom, provided older students with access to technology to develop life skills for jobs and access information for learning, and facilitated the establishment of a sister school relationship with Grace Montessori School.
This one act of generosity created a ripple effect.
Cathy, who is approved by the American Montessori Society to teach courses leading to Montessori Primary Level Teacher Certification, is providing Montessori teaching methods to Intime teachers via Skype and Zoom.
Last fall, Cathy shared her excitement about our partnership with Intime Community School:
“I came home from Kenya exhausted but buzzing with energy after seeing the children dive into their new Montessori environment. Although the space is designed for three- to four-year-olds, kids aged three to nine are exploring, learning and having a blast with the materials. Teachers are seeing them show up more regularly, tackle tasks independently, work together as a team and take pride in caring for their classroom.”
Founded in 2018, Intime Community School serves around 50 children from pre-primary school ages to grade four. With a director, four teachers and a cook, Intime Community School provides not only early childhood education but also a feeding program for children and staff. By combining learning with daily nourishment and community advocacy, Intime Community School is meeting the basic needs of its children and empowering them to envision a brighter future.
Help us continue building bridges through education. Learn about ways you can support Grace Montessori School’s mission at www.gracemontessori.org/getinvolved.