Our Programs

Co-curriculum

Damariscotta Montessori School prides itself on the strength of its academic curriculum, as well as its support of the social and emotional development of the child. We also recognize there are other areas of study that can serve to enrich the overall educational experience. These are a few of the experiences we weave into the learning at DMS:

lATIN

Beginning in lower elementary, classroom teachers begin giving students Latin lessons and weaving it into the weekly curriculum. There are formal lessons as well as moments in the traditional Montessori curriculum that integrate Latin as well. For example, a teacher may pause to point out that quadrilateral comes from the Latin words quadra (four) and latus/later (side).

Beginning in middle school, students participate in formal Latin lessons twice weekly with Ms. Mitchell. 

mUSIC

In addition to music instruction in the classrooms, Ms. McCann is available to give optional lessons on string instruments, including violin, cello, guitar.

ART

Art is a part of the Montessori environment in every classroom, because art is one of the ways children express themselves, develop fine-motor skills, and explore their creativity. In elementary and Middle School, children receive art instruction from Ms. Wyman and Mrs. Tabor.

Physical Education

Movement, the development of gross motor skills, and teamwork are taught through the physical education program.

Extra-curriculars:

Offerings vary, but parent volunteers have led programs for children across many subject areas. Past offerings have included soccer, trail running, and Lego robotics. DMS also offers a downhill ski club that meets at Camden Snowbowl.

Outdoor Classroom/Nature Trail

At DMS we consider the outdoors to be an extension of the classroom environment. Beyond our gardens, we have outdoor space for lessons, as well as a nature trail that weaves through the woods and is available to children of all ages. Primary children can be seen taking walks with their teachers to find and identify leaf shapes, while older children use the natural surroundings as a means to find real-life examples of their work in botany, zoology, and biomes.

Summer Program

We offer a summer program as well! Weekly themes change each year, so stay tuned to learn more.

Parent and Toddler Playgroup

We often host a parent-toddler playgroup on Wednesdays, from 9:00 to 10:30. It is currently paused as we find a parent volunteer to facilitate this lovely outdoor time. Make sure you have weather-appropriate gear, as we spend our time exploring the nature trail, and playing on our playground. For more information or to sign-up, email shawnalyt@damariscottamontessori.org