The Full Story
About
The Public Montessori Institute of Oakland (PMIO) is an innovative model of teacher formation designed to cultivate a sustainable pipeline of Montessori teachers in grades preK-6, prepared to serve public Montessori schools. In addition to the typical curriculum and theory of Montessori training programs, PMIO embeds anti-biased and anti-racist practices, reflection, and instructional practices into all aspects of our work with residents. Through PMIO, we support existing public Montessori school staff who want to access teaching as a profession by offering the training needed to obtain Montessori credentials and meet the unique needs of our students.
We believe the demands of all public school teachers require training that includes an extended period of apprenticeship supported by a professional community equipped to support new teachers through modeling, ongoing reflection, coaching, and targeted professional development. The training program needs to be the locus of formation, the nexus of ongoing support and improvement, and a community intentionally oriented toward flourishing for all its members, particularly underserved communities.
Mission
The Public Montessori Institute of Oakland (PMIO) recognizes that teacher training is pivotal, not only for academic excellence but also for creating a teaching staff that reflects the diversity of our community. Through PMIO, we support educators who are equipped to meet the unique needs of the students in their communities and foster a sense of belonging for students and families of the global majority.
Vision
Communities of the global majority, with a commitment to students and families, need pathways to viable careers in public Montessori education that are typically denied to them through other avenues.
