Early Childhood Education Program

MECA offers a personalized, adult-oriented program leading to an Early Childhood (2 1/2 to 6) credential from the American Montessori Society. Completion of program Phases I through V is required prior to certification. These phases are:

Phase I: An in-depth personal interview

Phase II: A small-group or individual orientation that introduces preparatory assignment work

Phase III: Beginning academics offered twice annually in a weekend format in the Spring and a weekday format during the Summer

Phase IV: A nine-month supervised practicum

Phase V: A sequence of continuing academic seminars that give support during what is typically the practicum year

Phase VI: A postgraduate seminar that encourages students to begin the habit of participating in regular continuing education.

The course requires a minimum of a year to complete, and students are allowed up to three years to complete all requirements. The academic component of the program includes sessions in all areas of Montessori philosophy and pedagogy, Montessori didactic materials for ages 2 1/2 to 6, child development, observation and recording, classroom management, family and community relations, and school administration. Students are assisted by our Practicum Coordinator in establishing a practicum arrangement at an approved school, during which the student receives supervision by MECA field visitors. The practicum spans nine consecutive months and consists of a minimum of 540 hours.

Those student's completing the course of study will receive an AMS credential. Those with bachelor degrees, or their equivalent, will receive an AMS credential in Early Childhood Education. Those who do not have a bachelors degree, or its equivalent, will receive an AMS Associates Credential.

Students are eligible to receive undergraduate and graduate credit for their work through Elgin Community College, Elgin, IL and Concordia University, River Forest, IL.