This weekend I received an email from an elementary student who wanted to talk to the class about working together to help people in Haiti.  She had done a great deal of research into the relief situation in Haiti and appropriate forms of help, and presented some realistic options to the class during our Community Meeting.  The class then decided to try to raise money for water purification kits available through UNICEF.

What strikes me in particular about this effort is that it purely student-driven.  In Montessori we strive to be true to Dr. Maria Montessori’s statement, “Follow the child.”  Rather than imposing our own adult agendas, we stay attuned to student interests, build upon those interests, and provide support as the children move in new directions.

And speaking of new directions, this child’s presentation to the class and subsequent community plan of action also inspired some lively discussion about tectonic plates.  I imagine there will be some renewed interest in the geography materials tomorrow!