2026-01 January & February Newsletter

“Our care of the child should be governed, not by the desire ‘to make him learn things,’ but by the endeavour always to keep burning within him that light which is called intelligence.”

—Maria Montessori

Calendar of Events

The above information is from a “Google Calendar” and can be added to any Google Account by clicking here.

Introduction

As we begin a new year together, we want to take a moment to thank you for the trust you place in us, in MMEC, and in the work we do each day with your children.A new year signifies a time to reflect on the past and realize hopes for the future. In our classrooms, this means continued growth, socially, academically and emotionally, as we continue to engage our students with authentic Montessori experiences.

MMEC remains committed to providing a learning environment rooted in Montessori principles, where each student feels safe and welcome and is encouraged to reach their full potential. Together as educators and families, we must continue to work collaboratively to support these efforts.

May this new year bring many moments of joy and discovery!

Re-enrollment

Each family will receive a package for the 2026–2027 school year during the week of January 6. This package will include a Letter of Confirmation along with an overview of tuition rates and available payment plans. Information and application forms for sibling enrolment are available on our website.

To confirm or register a student, families are asked to complete and return all required forms to Catharina as soon as possible, and no later than January 23. While registration for new families remains ongoing, review and acceptance of new applications will begin after February 1.

Current students and their siblings are given priority consideration. Please note that we are unable to hold a student’s placement beyond January 23 without a signed Letter of Confirmation and receipt of the initial non-refundable deposit.

As a school committed to keeping tuition accessible while delivering a high-quality Montessori education, families will notice a modest increase in tuition and care fees. By carefully managing overhead and administrative costs, MMEC continues to prioritize staff compensation and well-prepared learning environments. This approach supports staff retention and provides students with stability, consistency, and an exceptional educational experience.

Please note: This information applies only to the Casa, Toddler, and Out-of-School Care programs. In accordance with the Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, the table below reflects the flat monthly fees set by the provincial government. Families with children enrolled in before- and after-school care may apply for subsidy at: https://www.alberta.ca/child-care-subsidy.

Thank you for your continued commitment to and support of MMEC.

MMEC Fees & Tuition:
https://mmec.ca/fees-and-tuition/

Casino Volunteers Needed: Feb 24 & 25

MMEC is hosting a charitable Casino at Cowboy`s Casino on February 24th and 25th. MMEC volunteers operate this event solely, and many shifts are available on both days. The responsibilities of the various roles are straightforward, and you will be trained onsite. Please consider volunteering your time!

In the past, the school has received over $65,000, which we have allocated to special programs for the students (off-site trips, residency programs, physical activity equipment and our permaculture and toddler gardens). Funds from this casino will support the replacement of the Chief Crowfoot large play structure, scheduled for replacement in the summer of 2027.

Shifts can be scheduled by visiting the link below:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Xu2K_3MZ_v0FjzyGTspVKIPJ40iiPkxCPgcX8ldTv7Y/edit?usp=sharing

If you have any questions, please email [email protected] for details.

Driving Cautiously

We have received several complaints from neighbours about our parent population driving dangerously, making U-turns, and speeding through the alley behind the school. We strive to be good neighbours and value our relationships with the community and the community association. Please be a courteous driver and be conscious of our neighbours and children while driving. The CPS will be present in the new year to monitor along 13 Ave and 12 Ave.

Annual Education Results Report

Please see the MMEC AERR for 2024-25:
https://mmec.ca/alberta-education/

Montessori TED Talk

Julia Volkman has just released a TED Talk that beautifully connects neuroscience with our classroom practices: Are We Teaching Against the Brain?

In just 10 minutes, Julia makes a compelling, evidence-based case for interest-based learning, showing how allowing children to pursue their own curiosities supports brain development and encourages deeper intellectual engagement. As a Montessorian, her research powerfully validates the principles at the heart of Montessori education. Many of you may remember Julia from her presentation at the Montessori Canada Spring Conference—her ability to make complex neuroscience accessible and actionable for educators is remarkable.

Library Books Policy

This policy outlines the principles guiding the selection and review of all library materials to ensure compliance with the Ministerial Order on Student Learning (Ministerial Order #001/2013) and associated Alberta Education requirements.

Material Selection Principles: The selection of materials for the main school library will be based on maintaining the core philosophy and principles of Montessori Education, alongside the following criteria…

• Quality Standards and Educational Relevance: Alignment with the curriculum and high standards of literary or informational value.
• Age Appropriateness: Suitability of content, maturity level, and themes for the specific age group of students being served.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Representation of diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences.
• Student Interest: Relevance and interest to the student body to promote reading and inquiry.

All materials will be reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure continued compliance with these principles. A comprehensive listing of the library catalogue is available for viewing upon request.

Library Material Review Process: If a student, parent, or school employee wishes to request that the school review specific library materials on the basis of the above principles or a concern regarding suitability, the following formal process will be strictly adhered to…

• A “Library Materials Review Form” must be completed in full and submitted to the school administration office.
• Acknowledgement of Receipt will be provided to the requester in writing within 5 business days of submission.
• A Review Committee (comprising the Librarian, School Administrator, and a Teacher representative) will individually read and review the challenged material in its entirety.
• The Committee will meet to formally decide on one of the following actions: Retain, Restrict (e.g., limit to specific grades or parental permission), or Remove the material from the collection.
• The final, written decision of the Review Committee will be formally communicated to the requester within 30 calendar days of the initial request acknowledgement.
• A permanent record will be maintained detailing all formal review requests, the rationale for the Committee’s decision, and the final outcome.

Classroom Collections: All classroom libraries and resource collections are the direct responsibility of the Lead Guides (Teachers) to select, manage, and maintain in accordance with the school’s educational philosophy and the principles of age-appropriateness. Parents are welcome to peruse their child’s collection when visiting the classroom during any of the scheduled student-led conferences throughout the school year.

Feb 11: Parent Education Evening

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

We are pleased to invite you to a special parent education evening on Wednesday, February 11, from 7:00–8:30 p.m., featuring Nicole Scruton, a highly respected Montessori educator from Calgary. 

Parent Session Title: 
The Courage to Trust: Growing Confidence in a World That Demands Control 

Nicole Scruton, B.A., AMS Casa Montessori Consultant, brings over 20 years of experience guiding children from birth to six years. A Montessori child herself, Nicole has served as a Casa Directress, Program Supervisor, and currently works as a Community Support Specialist. She mentors families and educators, supports prepared environments, hosts student teachers, and is a repeat speaker at Montessori Canada annual conferences. 

During this engaging and thoughtful session, Nicole will explore: 

● What Montessori can teach us about trusting children and guiding their growth at home

● How learning without fear of mistakes builds confidence and resilience

● Ways parents can balance freedom and boundaries in everyday family life

To support parents during the session, Sarah Enright (Elementary trained and an Accreditation and Development Lead) will also be present to assist with audience questions. 

In today’s fast-paced world, trusting children’s natural development can feel challenging. This session will explore how respect, thoughtfully prepared home environments, and meaningful connections help children grow into confident, capable individuals. Parents will gain practical insights and renewed self-trust to support their child’s joyful and independent development. 

We warmly encourage all parents to attend this meaningful evening of learning and reflection. More details will be shared closer to the event. 

We look forward to seeing you there.

Tax Receipts

Tax receipts will be prepared for families in the primary (childcare) and before/after care programs and distributed before the end of February.

Feb 19: SLT’s Family Fun Event

Save the Date! MMEC Student Leadership Event on February 19 at the Roller Palace (formerly House of Skate). Details to follow!

Photos