Our Story & Philosophy
About Alegria.
The mission of Alegria Montessori School is to provide education of superlative quality facilitated by teachers who are engaged with parents and a diverse student body.
Our Mission
Mission Statement.
The relationships between administrators, teachers, parents, and students are built on mutual respect.
Administrators and teachers will focus on each child as an intellectual, spiritual, and social being. Montessori instruction will facilitate each child’s experience of the vitality and joy of learning, as each child grows in knowledge, independence, and a respect for others and the environment.
The children will learn in a safe environment of humane social interactions, good manners, and an appreciation of different cultures.
The Philosophy
What Is Montessori?
Dr. Maria Montessori was an Italian physician and pioneer in child development who observed that children have an innate ability and desire to learn about their world. Montessori’s approach of “following the child” is at the root of our philosophy at Alegria Montessori School. An authentic Montessori environment encompasses the following principles:
Mixed Age Groups.
A fundamental component of the Montessori philosophy is the multi-age classroom. In a mixed group, children of various ages and backgrounds share their talents and interests. Older children serve as role models; younger children are embraced by an established classroom community.
Prepared Environment.
Classrooms are designed to meet children’s physical, cognitive, and social needs. Child-sized furniture and hands-on materials engage children in independent work. A beautiful, ordered environment allows them to develop internal order and discipline.
Hands-On Materials.
Materials introduce concepts on a concrete level. Most include a control of error, allowing the child to check her own work without relying on an adult — a foundation for the leap to abstract understanding.
Freedom With Responsibility.
Children are given as much freedom as they can handle responsibly. Students choose their work, decide where and how to complete it, and with whom they collaborate. The teacher guides this process with as much (or as little) structure as each student needs.
Individualized Instruction.
Each child receives the lessons for which she is ready and pursues her own interests. The flexibility allows children the time they need to fully absorb concepts and pursue work that is both exciting and challenging.
Stewardship.
Peace education and lessons in Grace and Courtesy are major components. Children learn to respect the work of peers, speak calmly, and care for others — extending service and stewardship outwards to the greater community.
“Alegria Montessori is much more than just a school—it’s a close-knit community built on a foundation of excellence, compassion, and a true commitment to nurturing each child’s growth. From the moment my daughter became a student, she received not only a high-quality education but also the unwavering support of teachers and staff who are far more than just educators. They are mentors who lead with patience, kindness, and a deep dedication to every child’s success. Though it’s been four years since my daughter attended, we still consider ourselves part of the Alegria family, which speaks volumes about the lasting impact of the school’s nurturing environment. The leadership at Alegria goes beyond academics—it fosters a lifelong love of learning, encourages curiosity, and instills the confidence to approach the world with integrity and compassion. Alegria Montessori is not only an essential part of our community but also plays a vital role in shaping thoughtful, engaged, and driven individuals who will go on to become the leaders of tomorrow. I’m truly grateful for the profound impact this school has had on my daughter’s life and the lives of so many others.”
-Tom D’Amico
Be Part of the Community
Discover the Joy of Montessori.
A bilingual, nonprofit community in South St. Petersburg, where every child grows in knowledge, independence, and a respect for others and the environment.
