Classroom Behind the Classroom: Professional Development February 2025

At Apple Montessori Schools, we pride ourselves in our Classroom Behind the Classroom. Our IACET-accredited training department, led by Head of Training and Development Chelsea Etse, is on site in our schools regularly, training our staff on everything from how to effectively use our newest materials to ensuring we are delivering consistent quality amongst our locations. Part of our Training Team’s purview includes hosting four Professional Development Days (PDDs) and two Apple Academy trainings during the school year.

On Presidents Day back in February, while our schools were closed to students, our staff participated in our most recent Professional Development Day. During the training, Apple leaders had a chance to strengthen their leadership skills and share invaluable knowledge through several workshops. PDDs give us a chance to connect with other Apple school teams and are filled with team-building activities and non-stop learning; they fuel our passion for always doing the best for our students, their families, and our communities.

The February 17 workshops covered essential topics such as Math, Communication, Yoga, The Young Montessorian, and The Preschool Three Year Cycle. These sessions provided invaluable insights and practical strategies for our staff to implement in their daily practice in the classrooms. In addition, we placed a special emphasis on our Montessori materials. Through hands-on workshops, our presenters showcased a variety of materials tailored to different age groups, ranging from infants to preschoolers. Staff had the chance to engage with these materials firsthand, fostering a deeper understanding of their use and application in the classroom.

We also had the privilege of hosting Secure Environment Consultants (SEC) in several of our schools. SEC, founded by a former Secret Service agent, led our staff in Critical Incident Response Training. This training equipped our staff with the necessary skills to respond effectively during emergencies. Through insightful discussions and practical drills, our team gained confidence in navigating various emergency scenarios, ensuring the safety of our students and staff alike.

Overall, this PDD was a resounding success, equipping our staff with the tools and knowledge needed to continue delivering exceptional educational experiences to our students. We are already looking forward to the next one on Monday, April 21!