Welcome to Heritage Montessori School, one of California’s first Montessori institutions, dedicated to providing nurturing and holistic educational programs for children aged 2 to 10. At Heritage, we embrace the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, the visionary behind the renowned Montessori educational method.
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A Personal Connection to Dr. Montessori
“Heritage” holds a special meaning for us as it symbolizes our direct connection to Dr. Maria Montessori herself. Our Head of School is a third-generation Montessori practitioner, with ancestral ties to Dr. Montessori through her mother and grandmother. This strong heritage forms the backbone of our organization, inspiring us to carry forward the Montessori legacy.
The Roots of Knowledge
Our matriarch, Ms. Maria Peerzada, had the incredible opportunity to live and work alongside Dr. Maria Montessori during extensive research on early childhood development in India. In 1939, a landmark event took place: the organization of the first Montessori teacher training course for 50 participants. However, the popularity of the course far exceeded expectations, with over 300 trainees showing up. To accommodate the overwhelming demand, the training had to be moved to a humble tent with a thatched roof.
During these training sessions, Dr. Montessori would share her wisdom in Italian, while her son, Mario Montessori, would translate the lectures into English. Ms. Peerzada actively participated in both the Primary and Advanced Courses, personally guided by Dr. Montessori and Mr. Mario Montessori. Following her training, she worked as a teacher and directress in the model school established by the Montessoris in Kodaikanal, serving as an observation school for Montessori students.
Montessori’s Gifted God-child
Ms. Peerzada’s daughter, Qudsia, had the unique distinction of being Dr. Maria Montessori’s only God-child. Dr. Montessori bestowed upon her a special strand of rosary beads as a gift. During her childhood, Qudsia had the privilege of being observed by Dr. Montessori, who would assign her specific movements and tasks. These insightful observations formed the foundation of Dr. Montessori’s seminal work, “The Absorbent Mind.”
Qudsia imbibed a wealth of knowledge about Montessori pedagogy directly from Dr. Montessori. She also underwent Montessori teacher training under A.M. Joosten and received a diploma from the Association Montessori Internationale. Later, Qudsia collaborated with Nancy Rambusch to establish the Whitby School in Greenwich, CT in 1958. Subsequently, Rambusch founded the American Montessori Society (AMS) in the subsequent years.
Upon Mario Montessori’s request, Qudsia played a pivotal role in opening the first Montessori school in California, Sophia Montessori in Santa Monica. Shortly after, she established the inaugural Montessori school in Orange County, California.
Honoring Dr. Montessori’s Legacy
Since Dr. Montessori’s passing in 1952, her groundbreaking method has garnered increasing interest and validation worldwide. She left behind an extraordinary legacy, including a life philosophy, an innovative education system, and a comprehensive teacher training program. Dr. Montessori’s paramount advice to her followers was to always focus on the child and to “follow the child.”
Today, at Heritage Montessori, we carry Dr. Montessori’s vision into the twenty-first century, benefiting thousands of children in the Orange County area. With our rich history and direct connection to Dr. Montessori, we provide a classic Montessori experience that nurtures the whole child and prepares them for a bright future.
An Inclusive Educational Environment
At Heritage Montessori, we embrace diversity and inclusion. Our schools do not discriminate in employment or the provision of educational services based on race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We believe in fostering an environment where every child feels valued, celebrated, and empowered.
Come and experience the Montessori difference at Heritage Montessori School, where we honor our rich heritage while providing a solid foundation for your child’s growth and development.
Note: This article is based on the original content provided by Heritage Montessori School.