Westside Montessori Academy

Since opening its doors in 2008 WMA has grown and flourished in its beautiful surrounding at the Italian Cultural Centre of Vancouver. It is now a dynamic preschool and independent elementary school that provides an atmosphere of learning and genuine care not necessarily found at other independent schools. Nestled next to one of East Vancouver’s most stunning parks, WMA has become an integral part of this lovely community. This small school with a big heart uses the proven philosophy of Dr. M Montessori, successfully blending it with the requirements of the Ministry of Education. The following points sum up why this school is a unique gem of an educational establishment in Vancouver: Westside Montessori Academy focuses on developing the potential of each individual student. It is a challenging and supportive learning environment that allows each child to thrive, developing a life-long love of learning. Children learn at their own pace and in their own learning style which means they can move beyond a grade level or spend the time they need in reviewing a concept. Children are not forced to move forward because of the teacher’s daily lesson plans and they feel a strong sense of accomplishment and pride in their work and classroom. WMA is a non-profit society and as such all the tuition raised is put back into the school. WMA does not charge more tuition than is necessary in order to provide the best environments, teachers, experiences and equipment for their students. The school is not building assets and only invests in its students. This essentially means they can provide two Montessori trained teachers per elementary class of children of 16 or more and 3 or more teachers for the preschool classroom. WMA is a community school. They have established an amazing relationship withthe neighboring seniors home Villa Carital, where weekly visits promote a unique inter-generational program which greatly benefits both the students and the seniors.As well as a weekly activity with the seniors, the older children engage in volunteer and service work at the Villa and the elementary classes are able to join a weekly after school choir club run by the Villa’s music therapists. Finally it is noted by parents and teachers alike that the children at WMA understand kindness, they are caring individuals who are flexible and accepting. Every child is welcomed at WMA and each child’s unique qualities are embraced and encouraged. The classes are multi-age/grade groupings to allow for peer mentoring, leadership opportunities and also allowing younger children to be inspired by their older classmates.