The Surprising Reality: Only 19% of Montessori Teachers Surveyed Feel Supported

March 18, 2024
By Margaret Jarrell

At the AMS Conference in Orlando, Florida last week, the Greenspring Center for Lifelong Learning conducted an informal survey of Montessorians. Because our mission is to elevate and support the critical work of Montessori Guides and school leaders, we were curious to see how this group of Montessorians was faring. While this was a targeted sample (only of Montessorians who attended the conference), some interesting trends did emerge.

  • 64% of the Montessorians surveyed felt inspired
  • 42% reported feeling engaged
  • 31% reported feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and overworked
  • 26% reported feeling appreciated
  • 23% reported feeling fulfilled
  • 19% reported feeling supported in their role

Only 19% of the Montessorians surveyed feel supported?! Clearly there is much work to be done. Anecdotally, we heard many Guides say they don’t feel supported by their Administration.

At the Greenspring Center for Lifelong Learning, we have identified two key components that contribute to teachers feeling support: a school culture of belonging and effective mentoring. But what else is missing? Are you one of those 81% of Montessorians feeling inadequately supported? What would make a difference for you?

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us! In the coming months we will delve deeper into this concern and try to learn more about what types of support Montessorians feel are lacking. This will help shape our direction as we endeavor to meet the needs of our community.

Margaret Jarrell

Margaret began her Montessori journey at age three at a small Montessori school in Washington, D.C. She fell in love with the Montessori Method and went on to pursue a Masters Degree in Education and her Elementary Montessori certification. Margaret was a Lower Elementary Guide at Greenspring Montessori School before transitioning into administration, serving as an Admissions Director, Elementary Director, and now the Director of Greenspring Center for Lifelong Learning. Margaret is also an AMI Trainer in Montessori for Dementia & Aging and co-author of Montessori for Elder and Dementia Care (Second Edition). Learn more about Margaret.

Recent Posts