Jen Stone - Elementary Co-Lead Guide
Teaching Experience
Jennifer Stone has been an inspirational educator for over 30 years, beginning her journey at the age of 20. Her diverse teaching background includes dance, yoga, gymnastics, and physical education, leading her to her current passion for Montessori Elementary education. Jennifer’s rich experience brings a unique and dynamic approach to her classroom, where she continues to inspire and nurture young minds.
Educational Background
Upper Elementary and Lower Elementary Montessori Certification
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance
Masters of Fine Arts in Dance and Choreography
Yoga Teacher Certification
Personal Reflections
A Moment of Reflection at the Bluemont Fair
During the Bluemont Fair, I took a quiet moment to step into the Methodist church across the street and gaze at the beautiful quilts inside. Noticing each with its vibrant colors, their patterns, the way they work together with ease and energy, and the peaceful feeling I get from looking up at a piece of artwork, that I know takes a long time to create but is always worth the hours of love and discipline to make.
The Classroom Quilt: A Montessori Journey at 50
I’ve often thought of my classroom as a beautiful quilt. From the moment I chose to become a Montessori elementary teacher at the ripe old age of 50, this image of a quilt just kept popping up in my mind.
The Quilt Maker's Role: Seeing Children in Their True Colors
I see my job as being the quilt maker, likening each of the vibrant colors of each of the pieces of the quilt, to your unique individual children. Everyone wants to be seen and loved for who they are. They want to be seen and respected and supported in their nature and in their true colors. Whether it’s the deep, dark purples of one child’s personality, or the easy pink of another, my job is to see your children through fresh loving eyes each day, so they may become the bright light they are meant to be.
Maria Montessori's Horme: Fostering Innate Curiosity and Willpower
Maria Montessori referred to a concept called Horme. “In Montessori, horme is the drive that compels the child to exert themselves, come into contact with the environment, and learn. It is comparable to the willpower of the adult but quite distinct as it is innate, unconscious”.
Vision for the Classroom: Cultivating a Culture of Love and Learning
My goal is to give your children the tools from our prepared Montessori environment so they can unleash their own vibrant curiosity and discipline into their own learning. My vision for our classroom and my job as their quilt maker, is to support a culture of love and learning and watch as our classroom fills with their unique and colorful energies, just like the beautiful quilts that filled the pews.
Outside the Classroom
In her leisure time, Jennifer Stone embraces a variety of vibrant and energizing activities. She has a passion for singing and dancing, finding joy and expression in music and movement. Jennifer is also an avid lover of the outdoors, frequently going on hikes and swimming to connect with nature. Additionally, she nurtures a keen interest in farming, dedicating time to cultivating and caring for the land. These personal interests not only reflect Jennifer's diverse hobbies but also enrich her teaching with a wide range of experiences and enthusiasms.