Everyone talks about peace but no one educates for peace. In this world, they educate for competition, and competition is the beginning of any war. When educating to cooperate and owe each other solidarity, that day we will be educating for peace.
Dr. Maria Montessori
At the International Montessori School of Latvia (IMSOL), we provide an educational experience that fosters collaboration among students, drawing from the strengths of both the Montessori method and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program (IB PYP). Our educational framework is built on a foundation of inquiry and student-led learning, promoting critical thinking and a deeper understanding of global and local issues in order to bring about peace.
Our core philosophy revolves around conceptual learning with inquiry at its center within the Montessori setting. This approach is fundamental to the IB PYP and aligns with the Montessori principles of interest-based learning. Students at IMSOL investigate central ideas that challenge them to think critically about problems from both local and global perspectives. These challenging units not only extend students’ existing knowledge but also offer them the freedom to explore their own interests, take risks, think creatively, and embark on a journey to initiate meaningful change in the world.
Our learning spaces are designed to reflect the peaceful, organized Montessori environment. We use authentic Montessori materials that encourage hands-on learning, exploration, and the development of essential skills. These materials are carefully selected to meet the developmental needs of our students, whether they are exploring mathematical concepts, language, or practical life skills.
In line with the Montessori tradition, we maintain mixed-age classrooms at IMSOL. Currently, we offer an age 3-6 class at our preschool, and an age 6-9 class in our elementary school. This approach allows students to work at their own level and receive individualized learning experiences. It creates a supportive environment where the diverse learning styles of each child are not only acknowledged but celebrated.
By combining the rich heritage of Montessori education with the international perspective and inquiry-based approach of the IB PYP, we equip our students to think independently and act compassionately, preparing them to contribute constructively to the world. Our aim is to nurture individuals who are not only prepared academically but also committed to building a peaceful future.