As you evaluate and revise standards for childcare centers, I hope you will consider the conditions necessary for quality Montessori programs to thrive. One is appropriate ratios for balanced mixed age groupings. My understanding that is now set at 14:1. Balanced mixed aged groupings in Montessori programs allow for a stimulating and challenging learning environment that supports children social, emotional, and academic development. Standards should support quality, not hamper it. Montessori programs are generally staffed by well trained and dedicated early childhood educators who have invested time and money to learn to use the Montessori pedagogy with young children.

I also hope that you will consider listing specific criteria for acknowledging authentic Montessori schools. The Montessori Public Policy Initiative has described the elements of quality Montessori programs on their website https://montessoriadvocacy.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/MontessoriEssentials.pdf.

As a long time Montessori teacher, school director, and Montessori parent, I can speak to the impact that a quality Montessori education can provide to children in our commonwealth.

Thank you for your consideration.