The Montessori Teacher Academy (MTA) was founded in 1989 to meet the growing demand for Montessori teacher training. Through a unique partnership between Indiana University South Bend and The Montessori Academy at Edison Lakes, Mishawaka, Indiana, the Academy is the only Montessori teacher training program in Indiana. MTA is affiliated with the American Montessori Society (AMS) and has accreditation through the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE).

Early in the 20th century, the Italian educator and physician Maria Montessori developed a revolutionary approach to the education of children that was years ahead of its time. The Montessori philosophy is based on a profound respect for children and their innate desire to learn. The Montessori method is primarily an "education for life," a way of understanding children's needs as individuals and assisting them to develop their potential to the fullest extent possible.

Training is conducted in a Montessori school, affording hands-on access and experience with the entire Montessori curriculum and materials.

The Montessori Academy at Edison Lakes, where the summer academic training takes place, is an award-winning, state-of-the-art facility on an expansive campus serving students from age 18 months through 14 years. It was the first accredited Montessori school in Indiana.

Small class size assures each teacher trainee personal attention and the opportunity to form lasting friendships and professional relationships. The excellent reputation and quality of programming of the Montessori Teacher Academy has attracted students from throughout the Midwest and from as far away as Alaska and Great Britain.

The Montessori Teacher Academy recruits distinguished, experienced faculty who represent international and American Montessori, public Montessori and traditional public schools.

For current Academic Schedule and Application Information from IUSB:

Enrollment in the Academy is limited; early application is advised. Interested persons may apply for the entire certification program or the summer academic program only. For further information, call 574/237-4191; fax at 574/237-4428; or write IU South Bend Continuing Education, P.O. Box 7111, South Bend, Indiana 46634-7111.

Prospective students are encouraged to arrange a personal tour of the training facility, The Montessori Academy at Edison Lakes, at their convenience by calling the Academy at 574/256-5313. The Academy is located at 530 E. Day Rd., Mishawaka, Indiana.

The Montessori Teacher Academy has accreditation through the Montessori Accreditation Commission for Teacher Education (MACTE):

MACTE
University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Tallent Hall Room 236
900 Wood Rd., Box 2000
Kenosha, WI 53141-2000

To link to the MACTE web page: