Because of widespread interest on the part of the Clay County parents, the District plans to develop a Montessori School within Swimming Pen Creek Elementary School, located centrally in the school district. Additionally the value of the Montessori approach has been proven for years. The Montessori Method of Education, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, is a child-centered educational approach from birth to adulthood. Dr. Montessori's Method has been time-tested, with over 100 years of success in diverse cultures throughout the world. With the introduction of a Montessori school, Clay County School District launches a first of many planned opportunities for parents to choose the type of educational experience they desire for their child. 

The main purpose of a Montessori school is to provide a carefully planned, stimulating environment which will help the child develop an excellent foundation for creative learning. The goals for children attending the Montessori school include developing a positive attitude toward school, helping each child develop a positive self concept, assisting each child in building a habit of concentration, fostering an abiding curiosity, developing habits of iniative and persistence, and fostering inner security and a sense of order in the child. 

Students currently enrolled in the school will not be affected by the proposed changes at Swimming Pen Creek Elementary School. Families will be responsible for transportation if their student transfers from another elementary school. If parental demand outpaces the school's capacity, a lottery distribution of slots for admission will be developed. 

Currently  within Clay County School Distric,t there are few choices of programs for parents of students to select from to meet their goals and aspirations for their child. Mounting evidence shows that parents both want and know how to make informed choices for their children's education. Studies additionally show that choice can be a powerful engine for parental involvement. These studies indicate that parents with children in choice programs attend more school activities, volunteer more in their children's schools, communicate more with teachers, and help more with homework. When parents get involved with education, the more likely their children will excel in school. 

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The proposal for developing a Clay County School District Montessori Model is based upon children developing:

Intrinsic Motivation: Children who go through Montessori tend to develop the desire to engage in an activity for enjoyment and satisfaction.

Creativity and Originality of Thoughts: While Montessori students are typically confident about their own knowledge and skill, they respect the creative process of others and are willing to exchange ideas, information, talents, and credit with their peers.

Social Responsibility: Montessori children tend to be aware that their words and actions impact the welfare of others. They normally are leaders and team players, making positive contributions to their community.

Autonomy: Montessori children tend to be self-directed, composed, and normally independent.

Confidence and Competence: Children attending Montessori schools tend to become confident and competent. As adults, they normally become quite successful. At the same time, they tend to retain the ability to learn from their mistakes and remain reflective and open-minded.

Academic Preparation: On an academic level, Montessori provides students with skills that allow them to become independently functioning adults and lifelong learners. As students master one level of academic skills, they are able to go further and apply themselves to increasingly challenging materials across various academic disciplines. They learn how to integrate new concepts, analyze data, and think critically.

Strategy 1.3

Prepare all students to be full option graduates who are prepared for college, eligible to enlist in the military services, or able to compete in the workforce. 

1.3.11

Develop Office of School Choice and create programs for both elementary and secondary schools. 

That the Clay County School Board support and approve the creation of a Montessori Model school within Swimming Pen Creek Elementary School; to open in the fall of school year 2018-19. 

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