We are called to celebrate! This may seem
counterintuitive as we continue to contend
with the international COVID-19 pandemic
that has kept the USA and many parts of
the world isolated and afraid. It may even
seem inappropriate given the continued
racial injustice that we face. We may find
ourselves overwhelmed by the economic
crisis as we work to save our schools and
protect our jobs. Furthermore, with climate
change, wildfires, hurricanes, and recordsetting
weather events we may ask how we
will ever get through this.
However, we are called to celebrate the
anniversary of Dr. Maria Montessori’s birth
by honoring her legacy with a deep appreciation
for her fortitude, courage, and insight.
We are asked to understand and apply the
principles she articulated throughout her
life, informed by her study of the universal
child, the development of human potential,
and the implications for the future of
So, how do we honor Dr. Montessori’s
legacy while coping with multiple
international and personal crises? I offer
several suggestions as a starting point,
recognizing that practice is the 2nd period
of our 3 -period lesson. First, we educate
ourselves; second, we practice; and
finally, we integrate and share with
others.
• Take care of ourselves – engage
in practices that nurture our physical,
emotional, spiritual, intellectual, and
social health, and well-being.
• Take care of others – cultivate a
practice of kindness, generosity, and
appreciation for all beings we
encounter.
• Understand – develop our skills
of patience, deep listening, and
open-mindedness, engaging with the
intention of understanding others’
experiences with compassion.
• Reflect – assess and align our
practices, curriculum, policies, and
internal beliefs ensuring that our
behavior, priorities, and actions
represent our highest aspirations as
Montessorians, and as humans.
• Advocate - promote access and
opportunities for all people to benefit
from Montessori’s teachings.
Kathy Leitch, Executive Director
International Montessori Council
humanity.
�� ©MONTESSORI LEADERSHIP | WWW.MONTESSORI.ORG/IMC | VOLUME 22 ISSUE 3 • 2020
You will note in this issue we feature the
final part of Brenda Bernstorf’s 3-part series on
purposeful leadership, reminding us that
leadership requires us to practice courage
and transcendence as well as awareness
of our followers’ needs. In an article by
Warren McPherson, we learn why “creativity
is more essential than ever to a healthy,
productive life”. Creativity can also provide
the framework for the future world we
envision. You will be inspired by Punum
Batia’s connection of Dr. Montessori’s life
challenges with our current world circumstances.
And, take special note of Gender
Equity in the Classroom by E. Scott Osborne
with resources and practical ideas you can
implement immediately.
The IMC Board of Trustees recognizes and
embraces our commitment to internal selfstudy,
responsive actions, and continued
relevant support and resources for our
members. In this effort, we have created
a number of task forces, led by IMC volunteers
and in collaboration with Montessori
teachers, leaders, alumni, and parents from
many traditions and backgrounds. These
task forces serve as both practical support
and as “think tanks” on important issues
for today and our future. If you would like
to become more involved in the work of
the IMC through our task forces, school
accreditation, mentor programs, teacher
education program affiliation, publications,
or membership services please contact
me at imc@montessori.org. We will
help you assess where your time, talent,
and treasure are best served. Thank
you for your continued support and
steadfast belief that, as Dr. Montessori
said, “of all things love is the most potent.”
Dear IMC Members...
In service of children
and families,
link
/IMC
