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Why Seneca Village Montessori?

Seneca Village Montessori uses the Montessori Method, but is guided by an African Centered approach to teaching. An Afrocentric curriculum helps to provide our children with a strong sense of self while the Montessori approach allows for our children to learn through movement and activity while encouraging their creative spirit. Combining the two creates a “best of both worlds” scenario for our students.

African Centered Education

Seneca Village Montessori School’s foundation is built on the Nguzo Saba or the seven principles of Kwanzaa. We believe that the teaching of these principles and their message will help in the development of an Afrocentric value system for our students. Afrocentric values lead to Afrocentric goals, which lead to a new history for African people.

The Montessori Method

The Montessori method is a unique educational approach that nurtures a child’s intrinsic desire to learn. Montessori focuses on the whole child—her cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Montessori is designed to help all children reach their fullest potential at their own unique pace.

“Testimonials”

  • I just wanted to share how impressed I am with Osselito's growth. His language development has soared in the past couple of months. Each day he comes from school he is so eager to tell me about his day. Lately he is has been talking about the systems in the body and which body parts are in working together. He has been talking about the forest and animals in the ocean, and for some reason he has taken to using the word "actually" a lot. I'm just really grateful to know he is spending his day immersed in such advanced discourse and engaging learning activities. It puts my mind at ease.

    Jahkia Sanders - Parent

  • "I am overwhelmed with joy when I think about the undeniable mark Seneca Village is having on my little ones' life. Every day she is surrounded by kids that look like her, talk like her and will likely share many of the same experiences when trying to relate to the world. This may be the only time during her educational journey where her history and culture is at the forefront of her education. I am forever thankful to Mama Sharifa for birthing this idea and appreciate each and every person involved in keeping the village moving and growing. "

    Maynell A. - Parent

  • SVMS and it’s wonderful teaching staff and leadership has been a godsend. Our son has grown exponentially over the last two years and we know that is largely a result of the warm,  loving, nurturing environment you all have created. Much love and many thanks!!

    Lakesha Jennings - Parent

  • Seneca Village is a haven for the black and brown children it serves. My son joined the village in the summer of 2018. He was a new two speaking only a few words. His receptive language was where it should be but we couldn’t get him express himself verbally. By the time the summer was over our watoto was speaking many more words and astounding us each day with the knowledge he learned over the summer. We feel at home in Seneca Village. From the RBG flag at the door to the images of black and brown children in the libraries, we are sure we have our son in the right place.

    -Patrick and Chason Dewar -Parents

  • "It Takes A Village To Raise A Child- That's what Seneca Village Montessori means to me. Mama Sharifa and her nurturing team of Mamas step in and take our place co- parenting and teaching our children about their African heritage and planting seeds of growth. The Village is not only beautiful inside and out, it's welcoming and inviting.  It is my granddaughter's 2nd year at SVMS. I have witnessed her transform into a little scholar. She is confident and loves to do things on her own. Jaliyah's favorite saying is "I can do it". She always has something exciting to tell me about her day at SVMS and I am eager to hear all about it.   I love that SVMS focuses on new languages and healthy eating. Also learning through music and dance .The Village is also attentive to our needs as parents. Ex. Date night which gives us some much needed adult time. Acknowledging some of  our upcoming  entrepreneurs (Ex. Creative Cake Bar ). I could go on and on about SVMS because I just love it! I will be saddened the day my granddaughter leaves but happy that she would be leaving with the necessary tools to move onto the next phase. I appreciate all of you.Thank you so much! "

    -Anjeanette Reed

  • "Really clean organized, friendly staff, good energy at the place and from staff members, professional, cultural, children are nice and well behaved it's perfect! So glad I listened to my gut and went with this school i'm particular and this place has all checks on the list."

    - Sophronie Ray - Parent

  • "I love what I am seeing and hearing. My niece has drastically improved within a month of attending. I follow them on Instagram. I am pleased with the quality of education, nurture and support the children receive. A true village."

    - Okeh