Student Life
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Studying at MINW is a powerful and often transformational learning experience. The rigorous and in-depth nature of the course requires dedication and focus, and as a student once said, “I’ve never had so much fun working so hard!”.
Students can expect dynamic lectures on Montessori theory and use of Montessori materials, collaborative seminars with like-minded peers, and hands-on guided practice with the materials. In addition to the daily schedule, students should expect several hours of homework each night as they transcribe their handwritten class notes from daily lectures and presentations, and possibly additional work on the weekend. Laptops and recording devices are not permitted for use during class time.
We strive to create a beautiful and comfortable environment for our students. Please click here to learn more about our location and facilities, and to view a slide show of the interior and exterior of the Institute.
While we do not recommend that students be employed during their studies at MINW, we understand that for some people, financial constraints make this unavoidable. MINW strongly advises students to limit employment commitments to 20 hours per week or less.
Students must have a basic level of computer literacy; this includes using word processing software (such as MS Word or Pages) to produce professional-looking documents, and ability to navigate the internet. Regular access to reliable email and access to a printer (color if possible) are also required. College-level typing speed is recommended. MINW provides wireless internet access for students with their own laptops.
Meet our Students

Carlos, graduated in 2009
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A little about you:
Before I came to MINW, I assisted in a Montessori setting where I saw children interacting with activities, fully engaged without direction from an adult. I was also on call as a substitute teacher in the public school system. The difference in the teaching methods directed me away from the public schools to Montessori education as a practice I could apply with my own sons.
Describe the course workload:
It was certainly a lot of work. The interesting information and its relation to the development of children – my children in particular – inspired me and kept me working.
How well did the course prepare you to be a Montessori teacher?
The main element that prepared me for becoming a Montessori guide is the way I now view children. Before this training, I believed that children should not be able to do anything an adult can do. Through this course, I learned the child goes through developmental processes. These processes take time, practice and repetition to master.
Did you enjoy your training at MINW?
Yes! I enjoyed the group studies and interaction when practicing with the materials and comparing notes with classmates. Having another perspective enhanced my knowledge of all areas of the environment.
Would you recommend this course to others? If so, why?
I would recommend this course to others. If you really want to know the child, the course will help open your eyes. You will not only see the physical child in a new light, but within to the core of his being, seeking to bring good to all of humanity.
Patty, graduated in 2009
A little about you:
I have a B.A. in Fine and Performing Arts, and danced in four dance companies. My two children, and now my grandchildren as well, experienced a Montessori education. I worked in Escrow for twenty years, but have discovered my passion in Montessori.
Describe the course workload:
The workload included very interesting literature that sometimes kept me up late at night, because I wanted to read more than was required! The workload seemed comparable to a full load of credits in college, plus a few more.
How well did the course prepare you to be a Montessori teacher?
By the end of practice teaching I found my comfort level with the children in my host classroom. Everything that Montessori wrote and Ginni [Sackett] lectured on was in my thoughts as I observed in class.
Did you enjoy your training at MINW?
I always looked forward to the lectures given by Ginni Sackett, and really enjoyed the Reading Seminars as we shared ideas from the literature in an informal manner. I met some incredibly intelligent and compassionate people that share a similar passion for giving young children an education that is best suited to their psychological and intellectual needs. I knew by the end of this course that I had joined a community that I will enjoy being part of for years to come.
Any advice to incoming students?
Sharpen up your typing skills, and start reading the required readings, not so much to keep up, but to solidify your decision for the course. The Absorbent Mind motivated me to observe a Montessori classroom, and a conventional Primary class, and I immediately signed up for the Fall at the Institute!
Would you recommend this course to others? If so, why?
I would definitely recommend this course to anyone who wants to teach young people. I am surprised that Montessori education is not a requirement in the public schools, as advanced as we are in the U.S.
Nisey, graduated in 2009
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A little about you:
Before MINW I spent four years as an assistant in a Montessori Lower Elementary classroom. I have been working in some capacity with children four the last nine years. I love craft projects, and I ride my bike everywhere.
Describe the course workload:
Heavy. I was responsible for creating my teaching manuals and learning how to use the materials, as well as my daily life. I am in awe of my classmates who did not have previous experience working with children, were brand new to the Montessori philosophy, and had children at home to care for. In this way I feel I was ideally prepared for the full-time job of training to become a Montessori Primary guide.
How well did the course prepare you to be a Montessori teacher?
After four weeks of practice teaching, I feel very confident in my preparedness as a Montessori guide. Also, I feel that in my classmates I have fellow guides I can consult with.
Did you enjoy your training at MINW?
I loved it. Portland has a strong Montessori community. The location of the Institute is such that it is very reasonable to live near enough to commute without a vehicle.
Any advice for incoming students?
The best advice I could give is to be prepared to put other parts of your life on hold. I would also advise incoming students to have at least a minimal amount of computer literacy. The albums require this.
Would you recommend this course to others? If so, why?
I already have! My best friend is taking the course next year. If you love supporting children in their development and are interested in becoming a teacher, this is the place for you.
Lia, graduated in 2009
A little about you:
A native Portlander, married, with work experience in organic farming, gardening and construction, violence-prevention education, and outdoor education. I love being outside!
Describe the course workload:
The course workload was more than I expected. I’m glad I didn’t have to work this year, as I spent around three hours in the evening typing as well as several hours over the weekend.
How well did the course prepare you to be a Montessori teacher?
I feel that philosophically the course has prepared me a great deal, but the best way to be prepared on other levels is to apply my training to work with real children, which I’m planning on doing this year.
Did you enjoy your training at MINW?
I did. Portland is great; I wish I’d had more time to enjoy it!
Any advice for incoming students?
Really clear your schedule, and don’t expect to have as much free time for socializing. A person really gets out of this course what they put into it. Observe in Montessori classrooms as much as possible prior to starting.
Would you recommend this course to others? If so, why?
I would definitely recommend this course. It’s life-changing. I feel as if I’ve been let in on the secrets of childhood. This course has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life. I think this course should be touted as more than a teacher training course; it can be applied in so many ways!
