At Rowntree Montessori Schools, we understand that every child is unique, and our teachers embrace the rich diversity of learning styles within their classrooms. By tailoring instruction to meet individual needs while encouraging collaboration, they create a space where every student can thrive.
Through innovative strategies that integrate social-emotional learning into academic instruction, our educators build a strong foundation for their students’ success from the very first day of school.
Ms. Samina Thawer, one of our beloved senior kindergarten teachers, shares her approach: she prioritizes creating a safe, welcoming, and nurturing environment where academic learning and emotional growth are equally valued.
Each day, she begins with a morning circle, where students greet one another, set intentions, and share how they’re feeling. This meaningful ritual helps establish a positive tone and strengthens the sense of community within the classroom. To maintain this supportive atmosphere, Ms. Thawer incorporates “feelings check-ins” throughout the day, offering each child the opportunity to express their emotions. These practices not only expand emotional vocabulary but also encourage healthy and open communication.
Social-emotional learning is thoughtfully integrated into every subject at Rowntree, and Ms. Thawer ensures it shines through in every lesson she teaches. In reading lessons, for instance, her students explore the emotions and motivations of characters, sparking discussions around empathy, conflict resolution, and self-regulation. These lessons emphasize the importance of kindness, collaboration, and self-awareness—critical skills that extend well beyond the classroom.
Recognizing that no two students learn the same way, Ms. Thawer uses a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse needs. For example, in science, students might watch engaging educational videos, perform hands-on experiments, or reflect on their learning using interactive whiteboards. These dynamic approaches keep students actively engaged while deepening their understanding of complex concepts.
Ms. Thawer helps her parents be actively involved in their children’s education every step of the way. Through regular updates via email or Google Classroom, she shares insights into both academic progress and social-emotional growth, ensuring open communication not only during challenges but also when celebrating milestones, fostering a strong partnership between school and home.
At Rowntree, we firmly believe that academic success and social-emotional development go hand in hand. By cultivating an environment where both are nurtured, we empower our students to feel confident, supported, and motivated to succeed. Through classroom management styles such as Ms. Thawer’s, we’re able to focus on both emotional and academic growth, preparing our students to excel and navigate life with resilience, empathy, and compassion.
