Why do they Flourish?

From the professional poker player who created his own geometry algorithm, to the accomplished engineer who is also a ballroom dancer—the rich and diverse success of Arbor Grads is remarkable. Why do Arbor grads flourish so? Here are three fundamental reasons.

They love to learn

Montessori education recognizes that every child has a questioning mind and a big imagination. That’s why, at Arbor, the students ask the questions —their own questions—not the teachers'. We empower them to find the answers themselves.

When an Arbor student find something they're interested in, they seek it out and do research about it. They talk to their friends and come up with field trips. They learn how to learn. They love to learn. It’s a gift they retain for the rest of their life. And when you possess that love of learning just for the sake of learning, there is no limit to how far you can go.

They know who they are

The Montessori belief is that children are born knowing who they are. The core Montessori principle of respect for the individual—yes, even a 3-year old individual—allows the Arbor student to know they are heard. Which validates their ever-evolving ideas about themselves and the world, and quiets that internal voice which says, “Should I say this? Should I think this?”

Arbor empower students with the freedom and resources to learn what they are good at, what they love, what is their gift. That’s why the Arbor graduate doesn’t need to “go find themselves” in their 20’s. They know who they are.

They know how to do things

Yes. It’s true. Arbor toddlers make their own lunch. The elementary kids do math problems in the millions. The adolescents have their own businesses—profitable businesses. Arbor honors their independence—“the valorization of the child”. We take away the obstacles to learning, and when the child is ready, we assume they can do more than the world assumes they can do.

As a result, Arbor students manage their time better than their peers. They know how to access the resources to learn. Ultimately, Arbor grads leave with a real set of tools that allows them to tackle the challenges in this world and contribute in a positive way as adults. They go forth as poised young people— the problem-solvers in a complex society and fast-changing world.

Explore More

• The Arbor Grad: Where do they go?

• About “The Transition”

• Flourishing in the World