Santa Monica Montessori Institute
Educate the whole child.
It starts with you.
Building a foundation of peace through education since 1960.
The Teacher Education Program at Santa Monica Montessori Institute (SMMI) prepares you to guide children toward independence, inspire a generation of critical thinkers, and transform early childhood education.
Rooted in scientific principles, grounded in spirit, and backed by a foundation school with over six decades of history, our teacher education program program honors Dr. Maria Montessori’s true legacy by treating education as a commitment to life itself.
AMS and MACTE accredited curriculum
Serving Southern California since 1960
Why Choose SMMI for Your Montessori Journey?
WHO SHOULD ENROLL
Aspiring Montessori Educators:
Individuals seeking a comprehensive, accredited credential to lead Montessori classrooms.
Traditional Teachers and Assistants:
Current educators looking to expand their pedagogical toolkit, embrace child-led learning, and master the use of the prepared environment.
School Administrators and Owners:
Industry leaders looking to deeply understand Montessori pedagogy, operational dynamics, and authentic Montessori classroom standards.
Career Changers and Lifelong Learners:
Professionals from any background who are passionate about educating young minds, and have a desire to build a foundation of peace through education.
Whether you are looking to launch a meaningful career, transition into a specialized field of education, or deepen your existing classroom skills, the Santa Monica Montessori Institute provides the ultimate platform for professional growth. Our program is designed for a diverse range of adult learners who share a common goal: a deep commitment to helping the child's personality unfold.
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Accredited and Approved Program
Join a trusted program fully accredited by the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE) and the American Montessori Association (AMS).
Approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE).
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Immersive, Expert-Led Training
SMMI is commitment to AMS-accredited standards and a deep understanding of Montessori pedagogy. You will learn from seasoned Montessori instructors with over 10 years of classroom experience. Our intimate cohort sizes (capped at 20 students) ensure personalized, one-on-one guidance.
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Real-World Foundation
Because our Institute is built alongside an active Montessori school infrastructure, you will gain hands-on, authentic observation and student-teaching hours directly within a prepared classroom environment.
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Flexible Learning Paths
Designed specifically for working professionals, our program features a hybrid model with a 12-month academic course that is partially delivered online. This is paired with a 9½-month internship phase. Thanks to our flexible system, you can balance your studies with your current career and begin your professional transformation.
Accreditaion
The Santa Monica Montessori Institute is accredited for its Early Childhood Teacher Education Program through June 27, 2028 by the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE)
420 Park Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Telephone: (434) 202-7793.
Affiliation
The Santa Monica Montessori Institute is a Charter Member of MACTE and has been accredited as an Independent Teacher Education Program.
The Santa Monica Montessori Institute is now an American Montessori Society (AMS) affiliated Montessori Teacher Education Program.
BPPE Approved
The Santa Monica Montessori Institute’s Early Childhood Montessori Teacher’s Certificate will be issued upon successful completion of all phases of the training program. A transcript will be issued which names the course and units completed, which are approved by the Bureau for Private Post-secondary Education. This course is approved by the Superintendent of Public Instruction under the California Education Code, Section 94311(d).
“The child must be given the opportunity to do his own work, to make his own mistakes, and to find his own way.”
Dr. Maria Montessori
Our History
A Timeline of Growth and Excellence
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1957 – The school was founded by actor Tom Laughlin as Sophia Montessori School in Santa Monica
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1960 – Educator Dr. Ruth Dresser purchased the school and renamed it Santa Monica Montessori School
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1960 – With guidance from internationally respected Montessori educators Claude Claremont, Francesca Claremont, and Mario Montessori, Dr. Dresser established the Santa Monica Montessori Institute
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1960s–1980s – The school expanded in enrollment and programming, eventually offering education through 8th grade
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1990 – The school relocated to its current campus at 1909 Colorado Avenue, Santa Monica, California
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2003 – Pamela J. Crisman became Head of School and Director of the Santa Monica Montessori Institute
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2003–Present – Under Mrs. Crisman’s leadership, the school and institute have continued to uphold the principles and traditions of authentic Montessori education while preparing new generations of Montessori educators
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Today – Santa Monica Montessori School and Santa Monica Montessori Institute continue a legacy of Montessori excellence spanning more than 65 years
Contact Us
We are here to guide you through your journey into Montessori teacher training. Reach out to our admissions team for any questions about our programs or to schedule a visit.
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smmiusa@gmail.com
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Phone
(310) 829-3551
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Address
1909 Colorado Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90404
Next Steps
Our Application Process
01
Initial Inquiry
Reach out to our admissions team to discuss your background and interests.
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Application
Submit your application and supporting documents for SMMI review.
03
Orientation and Interview
Join us for an orientation and meet our faculty to learn more about our program.
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Start Your Training
Enroll in your first course and begin your journey as a Montessori educator.