Arbor Schools, Toddler-Primary-Elementary-Middle, is dedicated to allowing each of its students to develop his or her self. In the tradition of Maria Montessori we believe that each child possesses an intense motivation toward self-development. Arbor’s goal is to establish models to guide the children successfully in this endeavor. At Arbor we encourage self-motivation and independent learning so children will solve problems, define what is important to them, use their time constructively, assume responsibilities, and continue to learn and grow. We strive to develop a positive and realistic attitude of respect toward self, others and learning. We believe children should have a life that satisfies them and uses their resources, while benefiting themselves and others. We have long term goals in mind when we work with children. We want them to become unique individuals, who can think logically, have a good self-image and be capable of reaching beyond their needs to those of others. We believe that these characteristics will be more valuable to them as adults than will some of the standard achievements, such as, excellence in handwriting, or speed in computation. Accordingly, our curriculum is designed with this in mind.