As a Montessori educator for over 15 years (Early Childhood Credential awarded from AMS through VMTEC, a MACTE accredited training center) and now as a Montessori school administrator, I plead that you understand the importance for authentic Montessori teacher training.  Montessori teacher training is both rigorous and intensive (equivalent in work load to earning a VA teacher's license, which I also hold currently).  I propose the wording from 22VAC40-185-190 section c "A certification of qualification from an internationally or nationally recognized Montessori organization" be CHANGED to read "A certification of qualification from A MACTE ACCREDITED training Montessori organization"

Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE) is recognized by the VDOE and is a member of the Association of Specialized and Professional Accreditors.

Thank you.