Though Montessori schools have a unique mission, philosophy, and pedagogy, all independent schools have similar demands, functions, and requirements governing board care and education, state and federal mandates and compliances, child care, parent care and education, fundraising, financial standards, employment standards, and care of employees.…

Offers suggestions for facilitating collaboration between families and schools, based on experience in Montessori education. Advocates gaining trust through regular informal social gatherings of parents and principal, pointing out that trust can help parents deal with anxiety over future academic success. Notes the efficacy of a parent education…