Christopher Academy Celebrates Its 50th Year

In February of 1963 Christopher Academy opened its doors, the first Montessori school in the state of New Jersey and among the first in America. The school was started by four families, including three from Westfield, who wanted Montessori education for their eight children. Today the schools boasts an enrollment of more than 150 children from the ages of 2- 8 years at two campuses in Westfield and Scotch Plains.

To help celebrate its 50th anniversary, the school will host an Open House on February 10, 2013 from 2- 4:30 p.m. at our Westfield campus, 510 Hillcrest Avenue. All past  students, parents, staff and friends of both campuses as well as the former Montessori School of Cranford are invited to attend.

“We are hoping to reconnect with as many of our former students, staff  and parents as possible.” Amelia McTamaney, Trustee Chair, expressed. “Whether it’s been a year or a generation since you visited the school, we hope our entire family will stop by to meet former staff and see old friends.”

The Montessori method of education was developed in the early twentieth century by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and scientist. Montessori classrooms revolutionized children’s education, linking teaching methods to children’s unique development. Many of Montessori’s innovations are now standard practice in early childhood settings. Further research in the workings of the brain and child development throughout the last century has demonstrate the lasting positive effects of the method, from increased academic achievement to distinctions in children's creativity, self-efficacy, and community contributions.  

To RSVP to the Open House or for information on Christopher Academy, please contact the school at 908-322-4652, or by email at:party@christopheracademy.com.