Montessori School of the Angels

Montessori School of the Angels
Name	Montessori School of the Angels
Established	1972
Type	Private, Montessori
Location	Baguio, Philippines
Campus	Urban
Head of school	Sr. Mary Thomas Prado, RVM
Affiliation	Catholic Church

Montessori School of the Angels is a private Catholic educational institution located in Baguio, Philippines. Founded in 1972 by the Religious of the Virgin Mary, the school integrates the Montessori method of education with a values-oriented curriculum rooted in the Catholic faith. It serves students from preschool through secondary levels, emphasizing holistic development within its campus in the Cordillera Administrative Region.

History

The school was established in 1972 by the Religious of the Virgin Mary, a congregation founded by Ignacia del Espíritu Santo in Manila. Its founding coincided with a period of educational expansion in the Philippines following the Second Vatican Council. Initially offering early childhood programs, the institution gradually expanded its curriculum to include elementary and later secondary education, responding to the growing demand in the Cordillera Administrative Region. The school's development has been closely tied to the leadership of the Religious of the Virgin Mary and the vision of pioneering educators like Maria Montessori.

Educational approach

The school's pedagogy is firmly based on the Montessori method, developed by Maria Montessori, which emphasizes self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play. This approach is integrated with a Catholic formation program, aligning with the teachings of the Second Vatican Council. The curriculum spans the prepared environments for preschool to a structured program for the DepEd-prescribed secondary curriculum. Instruction is conducted primarily in English and Filipino, preparing students for national assessments like the National Achievement Test.

Campus and facilities

The campus is situated in the mountainous terrain of Baguio, within the Cordillera Central range. Facilities include specifically designed Montessori classrooms for different developmental planes, science and computer laboratories, a library, a St. Ignatius Chapel, and multi-purpose halls. The school environment utilizes the cool climate of Baguio to support outdoor educational activities and environmental programs, fostering a connection with the natural landscape of the Luzon highlands.

Student life and programs

Student life incorporates a balance of academic, spiritual, and co-curricular activities. Programs include participation in the Catholic Schools Athletic Association (CSAA), scouting movements like the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, and various clubs. Annual events such as Foundation Day celebrations, intramural sports competitions, and outreach programs in collaboration with local barangays are integral. The school also emphasizes cultural activities that reflect the heritage of the Cordillera Administrative Region and the Philippines.

Notable alumni and achievements

Alumni of the school have entered various professional fields, including service in the Government of the Philippines, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine National Police. Graduates have also gained admission to prestigious universities such as the University of the Philippines and the University of Santo Tomas. The school has been recognized for its performance in academic competitions and its commitment to formative education, contributing to the network of Catholic institutions in the Philippines.

Governance and administration

The school is owned and operated by the Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM) under the supervision of the Congregation for Catholic Education. It is governed by a Board of Trustees and administered by a directress, historically a member of the Religious of the Virgin Mary like Sr. Mary Thomas Prado. The institution complies with the policies of the Department of Education and maintains its status as a member of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines.

Category:Private schools in the Philippines Category:Montessori schools Category:Educational institutions established in 1972 Category:Schools in Baguio