1. education
2. school

0
2
g
n
i
t
a
r
b
e
l
Ce
!
s
r
Yea
“Hands for PEACE” International Conference
Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort, Pawley’s Island, SC
February 20-22, 2015
;
Make your plans to attend the 19th Annual “Hands for Peace” MEPI Conference!
WELCOME
We are pleased to announce the 2015 MEPI Hands for Peace conference, “MEPI
Celebrating 20 Years” will once again be held at Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort in
Pawley’s Island, SC. We are excited to share with you this year the keynote speaker is our
returning friend, Dr. Jane Bluestein.
With this as our 20th anniversary celebration, we want to give you our BEST! We
have a wonderful variety of topics from which to select. Presenters represent all areas of the
Montessori pedagogy in fifty workshops.
We look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones as we spend 3 days
participating in activities and workshops that will widen our understanding of Montessori
philosophy and current educational research along with renewing our Montessori spirit.
History of MEPI
Montessori Educational
Programs International (MEPI)
was founded in 1995 by a group
of 8 representatives of teacher
education programs interested in
promoting peace through authentic Montessori education and practice.
Dr. Helen K. Billings, an inspiring leader in Montessori education, was instrumental in
guiding this organization’s formation. Through her global network, she encouraged these 8
MEPI founders, along with
countless others, to adopt the
Montessori philosophy into
their lives and especially in
their work as educators.
To this purpose, MEPI
offers education programs
across the US, and in 7 foreign
countries. In addition, MEPI
insures cooperation with
MACTE by having a seat on
their board, and working in
conjunction with MACTE
through periodic reassessment
and revision of policies,
procedures, standards, and
criteria.
Dr. Helen Billings
2
1
2
;
Schedule of Events
Thursday February 19th
Saturday February 21st
4:00-6:00pm
7:30am
Registration Opens
8:00-8:20am
Welcome &
Announcements
8:30-10:00am
Session Five
10:00-10:30am
Networking-Shopping
& Silent Auction
10:30-11:30am
Session Six
11:30-1:00pm
Annual General
Meeting,
Commencement,
Announcements &
Lunch
1:15-2:15pm
Keynote
2:15-2:45pm
Networking, Shopping
& Silent Auction
Early Registration
Friday February 20th
6:30-7:30am
Registration
7:45-8:45am
Welcome & Opening
Ceremony
8:15-8:45am
Ode to the Arts
9:00-10:30am
Session One
10:30-11:00am
Networking,
Shopping & Silent
Auction
11:00-12:00pm
Session Two
12:15-1:00pm
Lunch
1:15-2:45pm
Session Three
2:45-3:45pm
Session Seven
3:00-4:00pm
Session Four
3:45-4:00pm
Silent Auction Results
4:00-4:30pm
Networking,
Shopping & Silent
Auction
4:00-5:00pm
Session Eight
5:00-6:00pm
Closing Ceremony
4:30-6:00pm
6:00-7:30pm
Keynote:
Jane Bluestein
Munch & Mingle,
Karaoke and Good
Times!
Sunday February 22nd
9:00am
Secret Gate Entrance into
Brookgreen Gardens
9:30-12:30pm
Brookgreen Gardens
3
;
KEYNOTE - Dr. Jane Bluestein
We are excited to welcome back our friend
Dr. Jane Bluestein for what promises to be another inspiring
keynote! Jane has worked with thousands of educators,
counselors, healthcare professionals, parents, childcare
workers, and other community members, worldwide. She has
appeared internationally as a speaker and talk-show guest,
including several appearances as a guest expert on CNN,
National Public Radio and The Oprah Winfrey Show.
Dr. Bluestein specializes in programs and resources
geared to provide practical and meaningful information,
training and hope in areas related to relationship building,
effective instruction and guidance, and personal development.
Much of her work focuses on interactions between adults and
children, especially children at risk. Her down-to-earth
speaking style, practicality, sense of humor, and numerous
stories and examples make her ideas clear and accessible to her audiences.
Dr. Bluestein is an award-winning author whose books include Creating Emotionally Safe
Schools; High School’s Not Forever; 21st Century Discipline; Being a Successful Teacher; Parents in a
Pressure Cooker; Parents, Teens, & Boundaries; The Parent’s Little Book of Lists: Do’s and Don’ts of
Effective Parenting; Mentors, Masters, and Mrs. McGregor: Stories of Teachers Making a Difference; and
Magic, Miracles & Synchronicity : A Journal of Gratitude and Awareness. Dr. Bluestein’s latest books
include The Win-Win Classroom, Becoming a Win-Win Teacher and Managing 21st Century
Classrooms.
Formerly a classroom teacher (in inner-city Pittsburgh, PA), crisis-intervention
counselor, teacher training program coordinator, and volunteer with high-risk teens at a local
Day Treatment Program, Dr. Bluestein currently heads Instructional Support Services, Inc.
consulting and resource firm in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Andrew Kutt and the children of
Coastal Montessori Charter School
We are excited to welcome back Andrew Kutt,
founder of the Oneness-Family School in Chevy
Chase MD. Andrew will lead the children of the
Coastal Montessori Charter School in an opening
ceremony that you won’t want to miss!
4
;
You don’t want to miss this year’s Brookgreen Garden workshop! The workshop
will center around the writings of
Henry David Thoreau as
inspiration for awakening the
nature writer in all of us. Come
for this workshop and plan to
stay the whole day, if you can!
This is always a favorite bonus
activity!
Sunday Session
9:30 am-12:30 pm
Registration Key
IT-Infant & Toddler
LE-Lower Elementary
MS-Middle School
EC-Early Childhood
UE-Upper Elementary
Admin-Administration
5
;
Session One
Interactive Science Activities in Biology
9-10:30am
Level: LE, UE, MS
Experience an activity to show students how energy is consumed in the food chain. Students learn that scientists track the population numbers
of various species. We will complete an activity to show how the species are counted. Our third activity, time permitting, will look at the
predator/prey relationship with regard to the tools used by the predators and the body form of the prey.
Teena Kyer has a BS in elementary education and a M.Ed. in learning disabilities. She holds a 6-12 Montessori credential and has taught in
an upper elementary class for 15 years. Teena also does teacher education for Palmetto Montessori Institute and is an active member of
SCMA.
Medieval Labyrinths
Level: All
Often the simple, conscious, and mindful act of taking "time in" can provide the overstressed, overworked, and overwhelmed person to quiet
the mind, calm the spirit, and tame the stressors of life. Taking ownership of your attitude, and creating a fresh mission and purpose, will help
you create the inner peace you seek and allow you to affect change around you to expand your peaceful environment. Quiet activities will
include journaling, visualization and walking meditation on a labyrinth. Take time in and let your best self come out.
Beth Langley M.E. (Beth) Langley has a BA from Columbia College, a MEPI credential at the Primary Level, is a Veriditas certified
labyrinth facilitator, and has a love of art—all things creative. She lives in Boykin, SC and finds peace and contentment in country living.
ADHD/ADD in the Montessori Environment
Level: EC
You've prepared an enticing environment, you follow the children to amazing discoveries, you redirect negative behaviors into positive
learning experiences and yet Sasha can't sit through a 5-minute circle without constantly interrupting you. Alex will not build more than 3
words with the movable alphabet, and Taylor needs to be in your field of vision at all times. This workshop explores how to best meet the
needs of those children in our environments that face attention and behavior challenges even in an environment best suited to meet their needs;
the Montessori environment.
Julie Armstrong is a Master Teacher Trainer with CMTEI, Supervisor and Casa Directress at Our Lady Queen of Peace Montessori
Bilingual School, Positive Discipline in Everyday Parenting Facilitator, Registered ECE with an Honors Degree in Child Studies and
Psychology as well as a prod mother of 3 spirited children identified with ADHD/ADD.
Exploring the Concept of Time: How to Make the Complex Simple!
Level: EC & LE
Jean Piaget, the famous biologist who investigated the stages in the development of the children's mind, declared that the concept of time in
young children was a complex experience and a difficult perception to snatch as the children live in the NOW. We, adults, even don't help in
confusing them with our "Wait a second!" or "Wait a minute" when we know quite well it will be more than a second or a minute. Come and
explore brand new attractive material presentations from three starting points: length of time, passage of time and cycle of time. Travel through
time to glimpse how calendars in use today were made and discover how you can make difficult to understand concepts easy to comprehend.
Daniel Jutras is the founder, Master Teacher, lecturer and examiner of the Canadian Montessori Teacher Education Institute. He received
his Montessori Teacher Education certification from AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) (3-6+) in Perugia, Italy, (1987) (his trainer
was the late Antonietta Paolini who worked with Dr. Maria Montessori for 22 years as her special assistant) and from Montessori St. Nicholas
Centre (Elementary). Dr. Jutras has a Ph.D. in Education from the University of Ottawa (1979).
What Exactly is Your Problem? – I Want You to Know (Part I)
Level: All
Be prepared to bare your soul in order to clear the obstacles that keep you from being present with the children. What is stopping you? We'll
use yoga and breath work to relax, identify and let it go and be done with it. Bring a yoga mat and be prepared to spend session five with us as
well.
Mercedes Stewart The owner and Directress of Mercy’s Garden, Richlands Montessori Preschool and holds a MEPI certification as well as a
Yoga Teacher certification from Kavalyadhama, Yoga Institute in Lonavla, India. She has taught Yoga for more than 10 years.
Incorporating "Learn Not to Burn" into the Busy School Year
Level: EC, LE, Admin, Parents
Learn not to burn is a preschool-1st grade fire safety and burn injury curriculum developed by the National Fire Protection Association NFPA.
During this workshop, attendees will delve into the curriculum, which provides educators with year round lessons that engage and excite the
young child. NFPA's website will be reviewed as well.
Maria F. Bostian – A fire and life safety educator for Kannapolis Fire Department, is an AMS trained teacher who is active in injury
prevention throughout North Carolina. She recently published her first children's fire safety picture book, entitled "What Should Daisy Do?"
Infant and Toddler Roundtable – Join Chrissy Muehlbauer of the Suzuki School of Atlanta, Georgia for a discussion about effectively
and peacefully advocating for our profession. What distinguishes a Montessori infant & toddler education and a daycare setting and how we
educate our parents and community about the importance of Montessori education beginning at birth. Come prepared to share your ideas and
build a network of informed and excited educators.
6
Session Two
11:00-12:00pm
Eat, Play, Read: Parenting For Success
Level: All
You know it in your bones: Parents need to spend less money on their children and just spend more time with them instead. Parents need
your support to fully understand that research shows the very best indicators of life-long success are not all the extra-curriculars, but family
meals, time to play and nightly stories.
Jana Morgan Herman M.Ed. is a lead guide at Community Montessori School in New Albany, Indiana, a teacher trainer for MTECSFBA and MIA and a parent of two grown Montessori kids. Her articles have been published in Montessori Life and Montessori
Leadership.
Lifecycles
Level: EC, LE, UE, MS
There are many ways to visually demonstrate complete and incomplete lifecycles in insects utilizing a few "easy to keep" species. This
workshop will share the species that have worked for me. The habitats are simple and inexpensive to set up. Along with observation,
keeping and raising insects has great potential for practical life in your classroom as well as scientific inquiry activities.
Antoinette Ursits has been in the Montessori classroom in various roles since 1992. She holds a MS in ed and both a primary and lower
elementary AMS credential. She currently teaches in a LE classroom at the Coastal Montessori Charter School in Pawley's Island, SC.
Did Someone Say Publication?
Teaching Young Children to Put Thinking to Paper!
Level: EC, LE, UE, MS
This workshop will provide all of the tools needed to learn how to publish children's books at the Early Childhood through middle school
level through a professional publishing company. You will receive a step by step guide to successful publication at all levels including but
not limited to, time management, successful editing techniques, peer mediation, creativity comma, strategic analysis, oral expression, and
finding happiness.
Tequila E. Howard, Ed.D, is an author, teacher, teacher educator, consultant, program director, and Montessori researcher for the past
18 years. Known for her passion in teaching, training, consulting, and leading, her dissertation is entitled, "Improving Language and
Literacy Skills in Preschool Children Using the Montessori Language Approach" and her most recent children’s publication is entitled, "All
About Me". A board member of the Phi Delta Kappa Educational Organization, she is the founder and leading director of Omilade
Montessori Academy.
Back to the Basics
Level: IT
Back to Basics is a return to simpler times in the infant & toddler Montessori classroom. It includes ideas to use recycled, environmentally
friendly lessons in your outdoor environment as well as safe and fun ways to bring your outside environment indoors.
Christina Muehlbauer attended IGS and is certified in Infant & Toddler through MEPI. She worked at the Montessori School of
Camden, SC for nine years and is currently an infant teacher at the Suzuki School of Atlanta, Georgia.
Building a Code of Ethics
Level: Admin
A code of ethics is a fundamental component of a successful school. It articulates the core beliefs of the group. This workshop will lead
participants through the theory of code of ethics and the process of developing a document that accurately represents who you are and what
you believe.
Dr. John Moncure is Headmaster of the Montessori School of Camden (SC) and president of the Board of MEPI. A retired Army
colonel, he is the author of numerous articles on topics of Montessori administration and holds a PhD from Cornell University.
Music and Movement from the Core
Level: IT, EC, EL, Parents
In Movement From the Core Hazel Ketchum will take participants through musical selections from her CDs “Big as the World” and “Say
Darlin Say”. They will learn how to incorporate musical movement for solo students and community groups. In Music from the Core
participants learn the benefits of large body movements, small finger movements and group dancing. In the musical selections students will
experience Echo, Improvisation and Invention which ties into musical form, composition, dance forms, rhythm, poetry and language.
Hazel Ketchum -- Hazel Ketchum began her performing and song writing career as a drummer in country bands at age 14. She went on to
receive a Masters of Music from the University of Southern California and has had a lively performing and teaching career ever since.
Hazel’s music is the focus of two children’s CDs “Big as the World” and “Say Darlin’ Say. Hazel is in demand as a music teacher and
directs music studies for the Cooper School and Oak Grove Montessori and develops song writing residencies for Engaging Creative Minds.
Hazel teaches for the Mark O’Connor Fiddle Method Camps at Berkley School of Music in Boston and the Method Camp in Charleston,
SC. She also teaches music at Green River Preserve in North Carolina where her musical performances and classes combine with outdoor
experiences. Hazel is co-founder of Science Songs Rock which brings nature and music programs together for elementary school children
and nature fans of all ages. Hazel lives in Charleston with her family and together they run Hungry Monk Music where students of all ages
come to play music, dance and sing.
;
Session Three
1:15-2:45pm
Positive Discipline and Montessori
Level: All
A look at how positive discipline is seamlessly integrated into a Montessori classroom reinforcing self-direction self discipline and self
esteem
Dian Taylor is a certified Montessori teacher and positive discipline parent and teacher educator and director of Garden Montessori School.
Interweaving the State/Core Standards With Montessori Methodology
in the Cultural Curriculum
Level: All
Cut to the Core: a methodology workshop that focuses on weaving the core standards with Montessori lessons. We will examine how well
crafted geography and history lessons will demand critical thinking skills in students, that meet and exceed core standards. At the end of this
session you will be able to: define teaching for deeper understanding, connect content and analyze lessons using core standards and
Montessori mythology, apply elements of powerful teaching and learning.
Nicole Householder is an upper elementary teacher with a level 2 teaching license at Maria Montessori Academy, charter school in North
Ogden, UT. She received her BA from Seattle University in Ecological Studies and Sociology. She holds an Elementary I-II credential
from MEPI and an M. Ed. from St. Catherine University. She is a MEPI board member and has been in the Montessori community since
2005.
Angie Perry graduated with a bachelor in elementary education from Utah State University. She holds a MEPI Upper Elementary
certification, and taught UE for four years. She is currently the Math educator for the adolescent program at Maria Montessori Academy,
charter school in North Ogden, UT.
Seven Weeks…Seven Wonders
Level: EC
This workshop will provide a seven-week outline and activities for cultural studies of seven modern world wonders. It can be used as a
supplement through the school year or a great seven-week summer curriculum. The study starts with the pyramids of Egypt and Africa, then
South America-Christ Redeemer Statue in Brazil and Machu Picchu in Peru. Next Asia and the Taj Mahal in India and the Great Wall of
China. Final exploration in Europe with the Roman Coliseum in Italy, finishing up with the Pyramid at ChiChen Itza in Mexico.
Jennifer Hales Sherman is the Founder (1997) and Director of Oak Grove Montessori in Charleston, SC. Jennifer received a BA in Special
education in (1983) and her Primary Training (AMI) at the Washington Montessori Institute in Washington, D.C. (1989). Jennifer has been
observing, exploring and learning in the Montessori classroom since 1989.
After 20 Years, Many Montessori Treasures Stay Veiled
Level: EC, LE
Daniel will reveal some of Maria Montessori's treasures that need to be unveiled such as her personal presentations of the binomial and
trinomial cube, her famous Pythagorean square, some of her algebraic formulas to build the Pink tower or the Broad stair and some
mathematical aspects of the Constructive triangles or even some variations with the third box of colours if time permits. Many of these
sensorial activities are unknown to many Montessori teacher-guides. Come and let's open her treasure chest for your enjoyment and benefit
of children.
Daniel Jutras is the Founder, Master Teacher, lecturer and examiner of the Canadian Montessori Teacher Education Institute. (See
complete bio on page 5.)
MACTE On-Site Verification Team Training
Level All
This workshop will provide information and training for Montessori credentialed individuals who are interested in participating in OSVT
visits to teacher education programs in the process of obtaining MACTE accreditation.
Dr. Rebecca Pelton & Teresa Noble – bios on page 9.
Taking Time In
Level: All
Often the simple, conscious, and mindful, act of taking "time in" can provide the overstressed, overworked, and overwhelmed person to
quiet the mind, calm the spirit, and tame the stressors of life. Taking ownership of your attitude, and creating a fresh mission and purpose,
will help you create the inner peace you seek, and allow you to affect change around you to expand your peaceful environment. Quiet
activities will include journaling, visualization and walking meditation on a labyrinth. Take time in and let your best self come out.
Beth Langley - has a BA from Columbia College, a MEPI credential at the Primary Level, is a Veriditas certified labyrinth facilitator, and
has a love of art—all things creative. She lives in Boykin, SC and finds peace and contentment in country living.
Toileting Toddlers
Level: IT
Discuss and learn the RIE/Montessori approach to toilet learning. We will begin with the stand up diapering process and move forward
through toileting readiness, parent communication and a fully toileted toddler.
Lisa Howell Teacher at Charlotte Montessori School for 7 years. Montessori certified in infant/toddler and 3-6.
Sarah Galley Teacher at Charlotte Montessori School for four years. Montessori certified in infant/toddler.
8
;
Session Four
3:00-4:00pm
Peace and Communication with Our Parents
Level: All
We interact with parents each day. But in our training we spend minimal time learning about this important part of our job. This workshop
includes various methods to help create a culture of community within your school. It will offer different techniques that will allow the
director, guide, assistant and/or administrator to reach out to families and build something special together. We will review
communication that will occur daily, weekly, monthly and yearly. We will discuss routines to reach your families in an organic manner.
We will also examine a parent education curriculum that is easily implemented. But we will absolutely forage new pathways in Montessori
and utilize technology to accomplish this communication and eduction. It is a direct reflection of the growing spirit of collaboration.
Martha McGlinchy Teien is an MEPI primary owner/director of a #2 classroom school in Avon, CO. She is also on the MEPI board of
directors and the Colorado Montessori Association Board. She still guides a primary classroom full time and directs the school. Martha is
also the mother of 5 children who all began their educational experience in a Montessori school.
Arts and Crafts Through Cultural Studies
Level: EC
Craft ideas to incorporate with the study of the seven continents. This will be an hour of fun filled crafts to make and take with you.
(Workshop is limited to the first 25 registrants. )
Meek Duren graduated with a Bachelors in Marketing from St. Johns University in NY. She started working at the Montessori School of
Camden as an assistant in the UE classroom for three years after relocating from CA to SC. She trained with the Institute for Guided
Studies and received certification as a primary director and has been working as a director for 4 years.
A Toddler's Practical Life
Level: IT
Learn and view examples of the toddler practical life progression from large grasping at 15 months to multi-step works such as salt coloring
and soap grating for a more advanced toddler.
Sarah Galley has been a teacher at Charlotte Montessori School for four years and is Montessori certified in infant/toddler.
Lisa Howell has been a teacher at Charlotte Montessori School for 7 years and also Montessori certified in infant/toddler and 3-6.
Inner Peace Curriculum
Level: EC, LE, Parents
Considering the world we live in today, the peace curriculum for our children is just as important as any other curriculum. During this
workshop you will be refreshed with new ideals and techniques to help guide our children to a stage where they will be able to maintain
their inner peace without the assistance of others.
Brenda Barrett-Coleman currently works with Head Start in South Carolina. She has Montessori certification in LE and taught for 13
years at the Montessori School of Camden. She has a MA in Curriculum and Instruction and is an Orton Gillingham tutor.
Karen Tolliver is a certified Primary teacher at the Montessori School of Camden for 13 years. She has an associate degree from Central
Carolina and is currently working on a BA.
Who Me??? Montessori and Accountability
Level: All
What does accountability look like in a Montessori environment? Is it possible to measure student mastery in this age of high stakes testing
and stay authentic to our practice? In this workshop we will discuss the role and responsibility of the student, teacher, parents and
administrators concerning this controversial topic.
Nancy Lindeman is the Director of the Institute for Montessori Innovation at Westminister College in SLC, Utah. She has been a Special
Educator for 36 years and a Montessorian for 25 years. She is a founding member of MEPI.
Beyond Observation: Strategies for overcoming Behavior obstacles
Level: All
Is your classroom less peaceful than you would like? Could you use new tools to make your observations more meaningful? Bring your
ideas and join us for a collaborative workshop to learn new strategies to expand your observations, overcome problematic behaviors in
your environment and restore peace.
K.Lea Kelley is finishing her 5th year in Montessori and her 30th in education. She is currently teaching at Maria Montessori Academy
in North Ogden, Ut. She holds a Master's degree in special education.
Rachel Fields is the Special Education Director for Maria Montessori Academy in North Ogden, Ut. She holds a Master's degree in
Special Education.
Early Childhood Roundtable- Join Joy Baty of Maria Montessori Academy in North Ogden, Utah in a discussion about early
childhood education and current educational research. Share ideas about how to meet state and federal requirements while staying
authentic to Montessori, in a world of improper pencil grip and Minecraft. Come prepared to share your ideas and build a network of
informed and excited educators.
9
;
Session Five
8:30am-10:00am
Re-Engaging In Your Own Spiritual Transformation
Level: All
We will dive into Montessori's essential teachings on the spiritual preparation of the adult and consider practical means to apply these
inspiring teachings into a way of life. We will focus on developing our own internal peace as a force both in our classrooms and in our
lives.
Mary Ellen Maunz has spent four decades in Montessori as a teacher, head of school, and teacher educator. Founder and program
director of Age of Montessori, she is author of two books and speaks and trains internationally.
Montessori's Cosmic Curriculum-Two Part Workshop – Part I
Level: All
Our relationship to the cosmos and all living things is central to all human spirituality and culture and this relationship is at the core of
Montessori's cosmic education curriculum. This interactive workshop will explore the elements of the cosmic curriculum such as: all life
has value; all things are connected; the cosmos is ever evolving; humanity can be a conscious collaborator with nature. Grounded in
Montessori’s own words about the cosmic curriculum, we will explore how the fundamental concepts of the cosmic curriculum inform all
the rest of the Montessori curriculum subjects at all student age levels, providing a wide panorama for teachers of the Montessori lessons,
activities and extensions that are possible in this area. The workshop will feature original songs, lyrics, activities and creative ideas which
bring the concepts of the cosmic curriculum to life in engaging and dynamic ways.
Andrew Kutt is founder of the Oneness-Family School in Chevy Chase MD. Andrew has nearly 30 years of experience as a Montessori
teacher, administrator, teacher trainer and consultant. He is the author of Living in Harmony, a book that offers virtue lessons.
Cook and Tell
Level: EC, LE, UE
If you ever wondered how to teach health and nutrition in a hands-on way, this is the workshop for you! Bring your apron and get ready to
experience live cooking demonstrations of healthful foods that are inexpensive and easy to prepare. I will share the key lesson stories that
connect the foods to the curriculum, including human interdependency as well as ways to connect food to geography concepts and the
human body. Come with an open mind and get ready to learn how to make health and nutrition fun in your own classroom space. Food is
a unifying force around the world. There are opportunities for peace through food knowledge and experiences.
Dr. Nathalie Hunt has a Bachelor of Science in Human Development from Cornell University, a Master or Education and Doctor of
Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Texas at Austin. She holds a Montessori credential in lower elementary
1-6 NYS certification and is the current director of the Coastal Montessori Charter School in Pawley’s Island, SC.
Montessori Education - How Integrated are the Components
Level: IT, EC, Admin, Parents
As Montessorians, we credit Montessori education as being comprehensive, all-inclusive and broad-based. Children in our classrooms
explore freely and learn first through concrete manipulation leading to complex abstractions and derivations. Join me in this interactive
session about how Montessori is not just a sum of its parts but a whole integrated approach to early childhood education.
Jayanthi Rajagopalan has been a teacher trainer with the Canadian Montessori Teacher Education Institute for 13 years in addition to
owning two schools in Toronto, Canada. Having graduated from London Montessori Centre, UK (now known as MCI), she brings a
depth of experiences and knowledge to her classrooms and training center.
MACTE Self Study Writing
Level: Admin
This workshop will provide Montessori teacher preparation organizations interested in achieving MACTE accreditation guidance on how
to begin the process of writing a self study and an overview of the process. Presenters will address topics related to accreditation, including
MACTE office support, requirements, and on site verification team visits.
Dr. Rebecca Pelton is the president and executive director of the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE).
Teresa Noble is an EC program Director and instructor for IGS. She serves on the MACTE Board of Directors.
What Exactly is Your Problem? – I Want You to Know (Part II)
Level: All
You must have taken Part I in Session One in order to participate in Part II. See page 6 for workshop description.
Mercedes Stewart (see complete bio on page 6).
Building Natural Literacy Through Organic Writing
Level: EC, LE
Explore how a child’s own ideas can be used to help teach phonics, sentence structure, punctuation and independent writing skills. This
workshop will give you tools for creating excited and authentic writers; from the first written word to editing, revising and publishing
larger pieces.
Kacee Weaver received her 6-9 training through MEPI, holds a BA in early childhood and elementary education as well as a M.Ed. in
Montessori Education. She spends her days at Maria Montessori Academy in North Ogden as the curriculum and instructional specialist.
10
;
Session Six
10:30-11:30am
Montessori and the Common Core: What is the Correlation?
Level: EC, LE, UE, Parents
With states all over the nation accepting Common Core what does this mean to a Montessori school? Do we measure up? Come find out
how well a Montessori classroom fits the Common Core, and get some ideas for extensions that will fill in any gaps.
Joy Baty has been an Early Childhood guide for seven years. She is currently working at Maria Montessori Academy, a public charter
school in Ogden Utah, where she has had extensive practice in correlating Montessori works with Common Core objectives.
K.Lea Kelley is finishing her 5th year in Montessori and her 30th in education. She is currently teaching at Maria Montessori Academy in
North Ogden, Ut. She holds a Master's Degree in Special Education.
Montessori's Cosmic Curriculum-Two Part Workshop -- Part II
Level: All
Our relationship to the cosmos and all living things is central to all human spirituality and culture and this relationship is at the core of
Montessori's cosmic education curriculum. This interactive workshop will explore the elements of the cosmic curriculum such as: all life
has value; all things are connected; the cosmos is ever evolving; humanity can be a conscious collaborator with nature. Grounded in
Montessori’s own words about the cosmic curriculum, we will explore how the fundamental concepts of the cosmic curriculum inform all
the rest of the Montessori curriculum subjects at all student age levels, providing a wide panorama for teachers of the Montessori lessons,
activities and extensions that are possible in his area. The workshop will feature original songs, lyrics, activities and creative ideas which
bring the concepts of the cosmic curriculum to life in engaging and dynamic ways.
Andrew Kutt (See complete bio on page 10)
Summer Science Camp- "Taking Our Children Back to Simpler Times"
Level: EC, Parents
Based on Dr. Daniel Jutras’, “A Summer to Remember”, presented by Pascale Quirion at MEPI 2013, this seminar will share the many
remarkable discoveries that have happened since implementing the program for the past 2 years. Specifically, the balance between
classroom and outings, structuring “free exploration,” specific scientific lessons and many wonderful experiments. Share in the children’s
evolution back to simpler times!
Sasha Malashenko is the owner (and teacher) of Inspiration Montessori in Montreal, Quebec. She is a new Teacher trainer being
mentored by Dr. Daniel Jutras of the Canadian Montessori Teacher Education Institute. Prior to Montessori, Sasha earned a BS in
Biology and BA in History and worked as a Wildlife Rescuer and Rehabilitator for 10 years.
Improve Brain Power Through Movement
Level: All
A strong emphasis should be placed on physical activities promoting motor and cognitive development . Researchers have discovered that
those who participate in cognitively enriched motor activities are better at managing tasks and academic skills resulting from structural
brain changes which positively occur . Line dancing is one such activity.
Linda Brashier has been teaching for 38 years. She was the first to bring Montessori Education to Laurens County, SC. She is certified in
3-6 and 6-12.
Montessori and Autism
Level: EC, LE, Parents
Julie Lyras' son stopped talking suddenly at the age of three. Dealing with his Autism diagnosis, Julie changed careers to become a
Montessori educator to help her son. Come hear her story as a mother, teacher and Montessori practitioner about how Montessori can aid
children with Autism and what parents and schools need to do to facilitate their success.
Julie Lyras a graduate of McGill school of Architecture was soon to change the course of her life forevr when she discovered her true
passion; awakening the love of learning in all children. With 13 years experience in Casa and Elementary she is currently training to be a
trainer with Dr. Jutras in Ottawa, Canada.
Elementary Roundtable Join Nicoletta Householder and Kacee Weaver of Maria Montessori Charter School in North Ogden,
Utah, to discuss ways to implement standardized testing and parent education into an authentic Montessori curriculum.
11
;
Session Seven
Montessori Philosophy-Who needs it?
2:45-3:45pm
Level: LE, UE, MS, Admin, Parents
Regardless of our level of development, the Montessori philosophy can provide guidance in our personal and professional lives, as well as
that of our students. We will explore the "how?" and "Why?" of this statement and show how it is reflected in the classrooms we create, the
lessons we plan, and our Socratic interactions with children and peers.
Beti Wyn Holcombe has been a Montessori Director for children of 18 months to 15 years since 1973, but is now semi-retired. She
continues the "examined life" of intellectual pursuits and reflections. A founder and Elder of MEPI, she is the owner/director of a
MACTE accredited course for Elementary I & II.
Yoga: Bringing Peace and Joy to Young Children
Level: EC
Teaching yoga to children in a fun, unique manner catering to their developmental level. Yoga is a wonderful way to help children achieve
inner peace and develop their focus.
Anahita Faroogh is affiliated with the Canadian Montessori Teacher Education Institute. She is the owner of two Montessori schools,
and a trained Children's Yoga Instructor.
Preparing Parents for their Montessori Child
Level: EC, Parents
In the harmonious Montessori relationship between “teacher-child-materials,” there is an obvious omission of “parent.” In fact, parents
are more often than not, an obstacle in their own child’s Montessori experience. This seminar will explore concrete ways to prepare
parents for the evolution of their child in the Montessori classroom. We will explore the preparation of parents for: beginning the journey
(September), classroom observation, seminars and parent/teacher conferences.
Sasha Malashenko is the owner (and teacher) of Inspiration Montessori in Montreal, Quebec. She is a new Teacher trainer being
mentored by Dr. Daniel Jutras of the Canadian Montessori Teacher Education Institute. Prior to Montessori, Sasha earned a BS in
Biology and BA in History and worked as a Wildlife Rescuer and Rehabilitator for 10 years.
Make a Joyful Sound with Finger plays and Rhymes
Level: IT, EC
Finger plays are valuable activities that help children acquire skills that are essential to their development and learning. They help improve
and advance memory and language skills, while also aiding in the development of eye-hand coordination and enhancing their gross and
fine motor skills. This workshop will provide a refresher course on how to deliver fun and exciting finger plays and rhymes.
Meredith N. Hines has been employed by The Montessori School of Camden since 1996. She is dual certified in both Infant/Toddler
and Early Childhood with MEPI. At MSC she serves as Toddler Director, Extended Day Director and Summer Coordinator. Meredith is
currently in school working towards her degree in Early Childhood Education.
To Curve or Not To Curve?
Level: EC, LE, UE, Admin
The controversy surrounding whether or not pre-school children should be introduced to cursive writing will be investigated during the
workshop. Pros & Cons for each and research on the topic of handwriting instruction will be presented. Effective methods and
considerations for handwriting instruction will be explored.
Teresa Noble is an EC program Director and instructor for IGS. She serves on the MACTE Board of Directors.
FUNDraiser - Makin' cash, Makin' Stuff
Level: All
Why look outside the walls of the school for fundraising ideas? Utilize what resources you have in you & in the children. Montessori
believed that the growing child gains his sense of value from producing a product. "A shop or store could be established and here the
children could easily bring and sell the produce of their garden and other things they have made." (From Childhood to Adolescence Pg.
69). Let's explore this idea and come away with some fun and exciting ideas that generate income.
Mercedes Stewart The owner and Directress of Mercy’s Garden, Richlands Montessori Preschool and holds a MEPI certification as well
as a Yoga Teacher certification from Kavalyadhama, Yoga Institute in Lonavla, India. She has taught Yoga for more than 10 years.
Donna Carey & Sheela Miller (bios not provided)
Adolescent Roundtable
Join Susan Putnam and Tina Childress to discuss the adolescent brain.
12
;
Session Eight
4:00 – 5:00 pm
Service Learning: Engaging Students in Social Action
Level: UE, MS
Service learning is a research-based teaching method where classroom learning is applied through action that addresses an authentic
community need in a process that allows for youth initiative and provides structured time for reflection on the service experience and
demonstration of acquired skills and knowledge.
Susan Putnam-- Susan has taught in middle school classrooms for 32 years, the last ten of which have been Montessori. She has served
on the MEPI board of directors for the last 6 years.
Discovering Food Lessons Beyond Snack
Level: EC
Do you have students that often say, “I don’t like the snack we are having today”? Come and learn how to prepare and present food
preparation lessons that students can select as part of practical life. Even the picky eaters will choose to do these lessons when they prepare
the food themselves. Participants will learn that these lessons aren’t snack lessons, but are an important component of practical life
Cindy Saxton -- has been teaching Primary Montessori at McLaurin Elementary for 5 years.
Brandi McKay -- has been teaching Primary Montessori at McLaurin Elementary for 8 years . Both teachers have found that Montessori
is a way of life and enjoy discovering new ways to entice their students.
Creating Inspiring School Environments
Level: All
Reuse, repurpose and create simple ways to add intrigue and function to your environment. You will take inspiration home in your head,
heart and hands.
Amy Rolan -- Amy is the director and primary guide at the Montessori Schoolhouse, Higginsville, MO and loves when students ask
"Amy, where do you work?”
Ruth Ann Perrin is a lower elementary guide and artistic force at the Montessori Schoolhouse.
Woodworking in the Classroom
Level: EC, LE, UE
Children can and do build and discover how easy it is to set up and maintain a woodworking area in the practical life area of your
classroom. Give children the opportunity to make a constellation, planet, airplane or bed. Presentation includes philosophy, equipment,
tools, supplies, introductory activities, building methods and projects. This sequenced approach promotes success, independence and
safety. Handout included.
Susan Scheibenzuber is an AMS trained Montessori teacher who has taught for over 30 years. She has been a school founder,
administrator and teacher. Susan’s children and grandchildren have attended Montessori schools. Susan owns Laughing Star Montessori,
a Montessori materials company.
Infant and Toddler Education: A Discussion About Communication, Movement,
Independence and Self-discipline
Level: IT, EC
Utilizing the “Aid to Life” videos, books and flyers, this workshop will focus conversations around the development of communication,
movement, independence and self-discipline (as time permits) in children ages Birth to 3. The resources are a straight-forward description
of Montessori-based principles for the child at home from birth to three and a great resource for parents new to Montessori.
Floyd Creech -- is director of School Readiness for Florence School District One. As director of school readiness, Floyd is responsible
for programing for the first plane of development. He directs home visitation programs, preschool programs and community outreach for
the StartSmart initiative in Florence School District One in Florence, SC.
The Laughing Classroom
Level: All
Allowing for laughter in the classroom creates a healthy learning environment. Learn when and how to facilitate structured laughing time
to maximize learning and brain power. In this session we will discuss the science of laughter, the benefits, and the use of laughter yoga as a
"fun (d) raiser."
Kristie Norwood -- Kristie Norwood has been involved in Montessori environments since 2003. She currently works at the Institute For
Guided Studies as an administrative assistant and a MEPI conference committee member. She has been a certified Laughter Yoga
instructor since 2012 and is co-leader of the Columbia, South Carolina Laughter Yoga Club. She fully believes that laughing is the easiest,
fastest and the most inexpensive way to live a happy life.
Parent & Administrator Roundtable
Join Martha Teien of Mountain Montessori in Avon, CO for a continuation of discussion about the role parents and admin in the prepared
Montessori environment.
13
;
REGISTRATION ~ 2015
Montessori Educational Programs International
PO Box 6 ~ Smithville, IN 47458
812-824-6366 ~ Fax: 888-708-2470 ~ [email protected]
Please print all information
Name:
Street Address:
City:
Phone: (
State:
)
Zip:
Email:
An e-mail confirmation will be sent upon receipt of this registration
School you are affiliated with:
Emergency contact name _____________________________ phone:_____________________________
Space is Limited! Registrations received after Mon. Jan. 19th are dependent on available space.*
*Postal registrations must have a Jan. 19, 2015 postmark to be considered.
*Registration rates increase by $100 after Jan. 19, 2015.
Your registration includes a boxed lunch on Friday and a sit down plated lunch on Saturday!
A breakfast buffet is available on location at Webster's for $9.99 plus tax and gratuity. They are open daily from 6:00am-10:00am.
Munch-n-Mingle Friday night will have delicious hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar.
Full Conference – MEPI member
$185
One Day – MEPI member
$145
Full – non MEPI member
$240
Session 1- A B C D E F G
One Day – non MEPI member
$200
Session 2- A B C D E F
Montessori Interns – full or 1 day
$115
Session 3- A B C D E F G
Become a MEPI member
_____ Presenter/Board/MEPI Elder
$50
SESSION SELECTIONS
Friday Workshops- please circle
Session 4- A B C D E F G
Saturday Workshops – please circle
Session 5- A B C D E F G
Session 6- A B C D E F
Session 7- A B C D E F G
Session 8- A B C D EF G
Sunday at Brookgreen Gardens –Please check if you
plan to attend Sunday’s event.
Henry David Thoreau _________
LUNCH SELECTIONS
Friday – Feb. 20, 2015
o Turkey Sandwich
o Roast Beef Sandwich
o Veggie Sandwich
Saturday – Feb. 21, 2015
o
o
o
o
Caesar Salad
Caesar Salad w/Chicken
Caesar Salad w/Shrimp
Not Attending Lunch
14
;
Additional Information
Lodging Information:
Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort
14276 Ocean Hwy. ~ Pawley’s Island, SC 29585
www.litchfieldbeach.com ~ 1-888-766-4633
Room rates range from $89 - $99 – Please mention MEPI when making your reservation.
Transportation Information
The closest airport is Myrtle Beach.
Shuttles or taxis are available from the airport.
Rental cars are located on location at the airport.
Cancellation Policy
A written request for all refunds must be sent to the MEPI office no later than February 23, 2015.
Requests received after this date will not be honored.
Membership fees are non-refundable.
All refunds will have a $35 cancellation fee deducted.
After February 6, 2015 an additional $50 for food and beverages reserved on your behalf will also be
deducted from your refund.
15