About Us

Mission

At Fiddlehead Montessori Elementary, we are committed to the development of the whole child, providing an enriching environment for each individual to grow to their full potential academically, emotionally, socially, and globally, while cultivating independent learners through the teachings and curriculum of Maria Montessori.

Vision

Our vision is for each child to graduate with the ability to be a self-directed learner and creative problem solver with an increased curiosity about the world.

Board Members

  • Kelly Linnemann

    PRESIDENT

  • Alexis Gentry

    VICE PRESIDENT

  • Andrew Velin

    TREASURER

  • Jaime Diamond

    SECRETARY

Core Values

Independence

Self-esteem is built by increasing independence. The Montessori environment provides freedom within limits and independence with responsibility. Children learn at their own pace and level, as appropriate to their developmental stage. Children explore their own interests through independent projects several times a year.

Community

Fiddlehead values and encourages community among our families and local organizations. We provide opportunities for family members to volunteer, gather for social school events, and congregate on campus weekly during pick up.

Diversity

Multi-age classrooms build the expectation that differences between children are normal and celebrated. We embrace, value and celebrate our differences and encourage diversity in our student, staff and parent community. We do not discriminate based on race, national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, identification or gender expression in our hiring practices and acceptance of students.

 

Conflict Resolution

Fiddlehead staff teaches and models peaceful problem-solving skills. We assist children with language to resolve conflicts in the classroom and on the playground. Children consider the impact of their words and actions on others, frequently collaborate or help one another, and take care of the classroom environment.

Nature Connection

Outdoor programs provide children with unique nature connections in Anacortes’s local forestlands. We provide children with wild experiences through educational activities, which deepens their relationship with nature and guides them to a greater understanding of what is present in the woods.

Global Perspective

We look beyond our classroom to better understand the needs of others around the world. We value cultural differences by studying cultures. We emphasize respect for nature and humanity as we share our planet’s resources. We value the importance of service and strive to participate in public service projects. Our school seeks to reduce its environmental impact by learning about and discussing our planet’s needs, recycling, reusing materials and cleaning with green products.

 

Doctor Maria Montessori (1870-1952)

The Montessori Philosophy

Our pedagogy is based upon the work of Italian physician and educator Maria Montessori, who believed education should be student-based and student-inspired. The teacher’s role is not to impart information for the student to memorize and recite; it is to follow the student’s academic interests and guide them through their unique way of learning and integrating knowledge. This philosophy has been handed down through teacher education and certification programs such the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) and the American Montessori Society (AMS).