A Child-Centered Education

Compass Montessori Junior High
Written By Treenan Sturman

Dr. Jal Mehta is a Harvard University professor, researcher, and education reform advocate. Like Dr. Maria Montessori, Dr. Mehta believes that schools exist to equitably serve all students, and to help each child be successful and productive citizens that realize their responsibility and agency to bring about a better world. In 2020, Dr. Mehta published the book In Search of Deeper Learning in which he explores the qualities that make for deep, meaningful learning environments. Though his book focused on high schools, many of Dr. Mehta's conclusions are consistent with the practices we see throughout The Children's House, including and especially the Jr. High. We are sharing this particular article with you, not only because of Dr. Mehta's alignment with Montessori principles, but also because it highlights, amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, what continues to make our school such a special community.

Treenan Sturman

Adolescent Guide

Tree started his career in environmental education and conservation, working for non-profit organizations in his native New York City, then Chicago, central Vermont, and, finally, Northern Michigan. The son and grandson of teachers and principals, Tree has had a passion for education going back to his first internship on the lower Hudson River. Shortly after moving to Traverse City, Tree was invited to join in the development of the Children's House Jr. High program. Co-founding and collaborating on Compass Montessori's innovative curriculum has been the culmination of a lifelong dream, which continues to inspire him each and every day. When he is not teaching, Tree enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, rock hounding, hiking, cooking, and sampling as many kinds of cheese as his travels (and the US Postal Service) can provide!

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