Programs Offered
Our Specialized Training Paths
“The child must be given the opportunity to become himself, through the freedom of a prepared environment.”
Dr. Maria Montessori
We offer rigorous, hands-on training designed to bring Dr. Maria Montessori's philosophy to life in modern classrooms.
Our programs blend academic depth with practical experience.
Faculty
Pamela J. Crisman
Executive Director
Pamela J. Crisman is the President and Executive Director of Santa Monica Montessori School and Teacher Training Institute, with over 55 years of experience in Montessori education. She holds a B.A. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, an M.A. in Special Education with a focus on Gifted Education, and a Doctorate in Humane Letters, along with Montessori certifications in both Early Childhood and Elementary Education.
A founding and charter member of both MACTE and IAME, Mrs. Crisman has been instrumental in shaping Montessori accreditation standards nationally and has owned and operated multiple Montessori schools throughout California serving children from birth through high school. She is an internationally recognized speaker and consultant on Montessori Education, having presented in Korea, the Philippines, China, England, and across the United States.
She currently leads Santa Monica Montessori School and Village Montessori School, and continues to train Montessori teachers both domestically and abroad.
Faculty Requirements
Montessori Certification from a MACTE Accredited Teacher Education Program
A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university or its equivalent, in addition to a Montessori credential at the level of instruction
Ten or more years of teaching experience in a classroom with children following the receipt of the credential at the level of instruction
Documented evidence of expertise and experience in the course subjects
Current membership in the American Montessori Society
Evidence of continuing professional development and teaching experience with adults