Student Testimonials

Loredana Perrelli, Netherlands: I would say that the entire course was an extraordinary revelation to me. It was a wonderful revelation in the fact that I had to take an inner journey before any didactical knowledge could take place. No other study experiences have given me such a valuable experience. I could not have achieved all of this without the help of the UMA staff. Feedback was always stated positively and respectful. At the beginning, I was a bit skeptical about on-line courses because of this virtual contact with the teachers. In the case of UMA, it has been like I was talking to my evaluator in person. UMA showed me trust and understanding and for this I am very grateful. Thank you so much.

Angela McClure, Georgia: The Montessori training has totally restructured my life and beliefs in teaching. Distance learning is wonderful for people like me (public school teacher) and this program has taught me more about the development of a child than what I learned while obtaining my ECE and Master's degrees... The support I have received at UMA has been phenomenal.

Mark Germain, Japan: Throughout the course, I became increasingly aware of the importance of the preparation of the adult. I would now be very reluctant to hire staff that is not Montessori-trained, or certified through a course whose curriculum didn’t include inner preparation. However well-meaning (and misguided) a person can be, I now see proper training as essential. The children deserve at least that much - 0 to 6 being the foundation year of a lifetime. It is time people realize how primordial a good “teacher” is to the development of children (and the larger society). UMA exceeded all my expectations. With so many diploma mills on the web, and with most prestigious institutions who offer distance learning, yet providing little to no contact with a mentor, I was surprised at your very high level of commitment. Trudy, you have been a tower of strength! Even though we have never met (not yet, I know I have found a valuable friend. I’ll never forget all the assistance you willingly supplied when I decided to open my school. Also, I appreciate the fact that you left no stone unturned, which you did with empathy yet forcing me to take a good hard look in the mirror.) I’ll ever be thankful. I’ve grown quite confident that I am an effective Montessori teacher. Why? Quite simply, and that’s all that really matters: a normalized class! It’s truly beautiful.

Melanie Corrado, Florida: I have to say that it has been a real pleasure working with the staff over the past year. They have been helpful and informative and very much a part of the reason that I now feel confident in my ability to be a leader in the field of Montessori early childhood education. They encouraged me to think about each and every assignment and always made sure that I had a clear understanding of one topic before going on to the next. When completing a course and becoming certified through distance learning, communication is of utmost importance. I always felt as though they responded to me in a timely matter whenever I had a question and/or upon completion of an assignment. In addition to working on my assignments, I also held a full-time job, was pregnant and eventually gave birth half way through the course. My personal life, therefore, was extremely busy and I have to admit there were times that I thought I would never be able to finish this program. UMA, however, made it possible in that they understood that my personal life and the events taking place were of utmost importance. If I couldn’t turn in an assignment right away that was understandable. In addition, I always felt as though the responses that I received with regard to my assignments were fair, accurate, and well thought out. They helped me to think further into the subject at hand and allowed me to clarify any misunderstandings. As I look back over all of my assignments and all of the thought and hard work that was involved in completing them, I am amazed with the amount of knowledge that I now possess in the field of Montessori education. This course covered every aspect of the classroom, the materials within, and how to create positive parent/teacher relationships. The knowledge that I have gained in the past year is what gives me the confidence to lead a group of children and educate them according to the Montessori philosophy.

Becky Gamboa, Michigan: The staff at UMA are very knowledgeable about what they teach and I had first hand experience of that through their very insightful comments and explanations to the numerous essays I wrote, and by the recommendations I was provided when I needed their support the most. The UMA training layout was very effective. Each section of the training curriculum transitioned well. I was glad to know that the staff at UMA was always there when I needed them.

Sinchita Mitra, Ohio: I feel that the UMA program’s course material was more than excellent. It was exhaustive and detailed and yet presented in a very fluid manner for easy grasping. I could not have hoped for better communication. During the course, I went through a difficult pregnancy, followed by a C-section which left me mentally and physically exhausted. During all this time, my evaluator was always beside me, helping me and providing me with courage and support over the phone. But for the help and support that I received from her, I would have found it almost impossible to complete the course. I am ever thankful to her for all that she has given me. She is not only a great Montessori teacher, but she is an excellent human being. I am fully confident that I am fully prepared to be an effective Montessori teacher. My experience as I have gone through this course has given me a totally new perspective of life. The course has very detailed and has given me a very sound foundation of the true principles of Montessori education.

Michele Wildflower, Vermont: I learned so much about child development, the way the child’s brain works, how the thought processes are engaged….proper demonstrations, etc. I think the most significant part of the program is the inner preparation. I felt very supported by the UMA staff, any questions I had or could not understand were responded to in a timely, patient manner. The extra help I was given in preparing my school, was awesome, I could not have done it without UMA. I feel very confident in my preparation as a Montessori teacher. I have learned so much from Trudy and John and appreciate that they started UMA. By educating adults, we can hope to make the world a better place. UMA is doing just that. Through the proper education of children, we can begin to build a world, in which children receive what they need, understand the importance of peace among individuals, and help to preserve the Earth and all her resources. THANK YOU, UMA, FOR HELPING TO MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE !!!

Tasneem Ashraf, Washington: I appreciated the fact that after I submitted an assignment, my instructor carefully wrote comments and expected me to answer all queries thoroughly before moving on to the next assignment. She made sure I grasped all the concepts before moving ahead. So Montessori of her! Not rushing her students through the course. The staff at UMA provided excellent support and responded promptly whenever I had questions. I stayed motivated because of the support I received from the staff.

Kathleen Wylie, Virginia: I've enjoyed this very much. Thanks again for all that you have given me! You have so much insight and understanding. I know I will continue to seek your guidance when I run into snags, and I value your perspective.

Vicki Ferrara, Alabama: UMA exceeded my expectations. I feel that I developed a personal relationship with the staff, a common bond that will always be there... You pulled the rug out from under me when I needed it; you refused to let me slack off or turn in something that was not right. You didn't just take my tuition and tell me I was wonderful and here is my certificate. It was always obvious that the integrity of the program was foremost in your concerns."

Shanthi Vaidyanath, Vietnam: The staff at UMA has been most supportive with regular positive feedback and encouragement. This course provided me excellent information and thorough learning of Montessori philosophy and its application."

Marnie Hazlewood, Bahamas: It is amazing, in my five years of college, I never felt so excited and eager to study! The UMA program is very organized and very detailed. I was provided with stimulating and thought-provoking material and assignments. I was challenged more than I thought I would have been and I am very grateful for this because it has prepared me to take on the job that awaits me in the world of children.

Shirley Miller, Montana: This was a rewarding, insightful course. I believe I got much more than my money's worth. I received more than I expected in not only how I deal with children but also my own personal growth. It has been a wonderful experience. My view on how children learn has changed. I've realized that I don't have to be a "good" teacher but instead create a favorable environment for learning. I'm excited and motivated

Rebecca Wickens, Washington: Whenever I had a question you would immediately get back to me which I GREATLY appreciated. You would walk me through the steps until I understood. You didn't just give me the answers; you made sure it was comprehended. I am very excited to use the information in this course to start a new Montessori school. I have learned in abundance by taking this course. Not only has it prepared me for my future, it has also given me the chance to look at my own parenting skills…It helped me to see life through a child's eyes again. I have been able to use the course and implement some of the teachings in my own life. I have also really enjoyed learning and preparing the material presentations in all areas of the classroom. I highly recommend this program.

Emma Czipczer, Romania: My personal evaluator offered me the model of a Montessori teacher through humanity, the way to work with students, and the meticulous respect for Dr. Maria Montessori's creation. The staff deserves all the honors for their high level of professionalism. They are very special persons whom we rarely have a chance to meet in life, and I have had this honor. I know that this does not finish here, but continues through our relationship as a 'Montessori family.' I have nothing but many thanks.

Anne Schacht, Florida: We as adults and teachers have the power in our hands to teach and build a better world and future. This is one of the reasons it is necessary to have well-trained individuals in primary education. It is very important for teachers to have an inner preparation to interact with and teach children. I never before saw the children the way I see them today... I feel like I have a new window in front of me

Nadia Luccessi, Wisconsin: Thank you for everything. I have enjoyed this course and even feel that I got a better Montessori education through you than if I had gone to a lab school. Your assignments and essays that I had to write prepared me more that I feel a lecture would have. You truly made me learn and discover on my own. What better way to understand what Montessori is all about.

Taysia Mitton, Vermont: I was thoroughly impressed with the attention given to the spiritual work of the teacher. It was a large part of the training and I feel it was the most important. When it comes to teaching, there is not enough emphasis placed on the spiritual preparation that must be made. If there is to be significant growth an understanding between the adult and the child then work must be accomplished within the adult. Through observing myself and my own actions, I’ve been able to bring attention to areas within myself that need work in order for me to be a better teacher and person. It has given me a lot more confidence. I now eagerly look forward to teaching and especially to opening up my own school. I was uncomfortable writing about my childhood and worried about how my teachers would respond. Instead of getting the responses I feared (such as lack of encouragement to become a teacher because of my past experiences) I received a lot of positive encouragement. I really appreciate the fact that the feedback I received wasn’t “praise” but honest responses. This has assisted me in finding confidence within myself instead of looking to others for support. If I ever feel I need advice, have a question or any concerns with teaching or the philosophy, I am comforted to know I can always turn to UMA for support.

Sharon Gordon, Colorado: To my great surprise and delight, I found the United Montessori Association, a workable solution for even a busy mom/teacher like me. I could get my training while continuing to home school. Because of the personalized training and encouragement I have received from my evaluator, I was able to open my own Montessori school without feeling unprepared, even as I continued to finish the coursework.

Arlene Al-Harthy, Oman: I think that the staff of UMA was extremely helpful, not only with the course, but with any other questions I came up with. They were very professional as well as very friendly and approachable throughout the program. I could not have wished for a better tutor, and I am very grateful to my evaluator for all her support. The UMA course has given me a greater insight into the minds of children and how they are influenced by the environment and experiences. Being able to understand their needs has enabled me to be a better teacher and mother. After completing this course I could see how I have developed in to the person I am today. I am very glad that I took this course.

Patricia O’Loughlin, Minnesota: I felt that the most significant aspect of the program was internal self-preparation and reflection. Anyone can master the particular didactic materials of a method, but truly understanding one’s role in the process is what identifies a good Montessorian. This course spent a significant amount of time with inner preparedness, and consistently returned to ways a Montessorian must comport him/herself. I very much appreciated this, and feel it has affected me greatly. My inner preparedness is in place, I am enthusiastically idealistic, and every day I spend in the classroom makes me smile in wonder at what can be and is being accomplished. I can hardly believe my official studies have come to an end. It seems strange to me, I began this study in what seems like a different life. So much has changed for me, and I think my Montessori training has been the most personally fulfilling thing I have accomplished in the past few years. I have very much enjoyed this program, I have learned so much from you! I certainly hope to continue to benefit from the guidance of UMA through the years to come, as I know situations and opportunities will arise that would benefit from the wisdom of my Montessori mentor.

Sachia D’Sa , New York: I think you do an excellent job being a distance-learning program. I never thought I would have such a good foundation. I am going to be the head teacher in a new Montessori class. I am going to use all the knowledge that I have received about child development, sensitive periods, classroom organization and management, and observation as it relates to the class and the children. Yes, I have full confidence that I will be an asset to my school as a trained teacher. I have had a good grounding in Montessori theory that will help me carry on as a Montessorian.

Jessica Casimiro, Philippines: There was a point during the course when I said to myself, “C’mon, just give me the answer!” But then I discovered that, hmmm, Trudy is making me learn my lessons the Montessori way! It struck me that the Montessori method is in fact a technique that may be applied to children in all levels of education. Having discovered this idea, I began to make modifications in the teaching strategies I use in my classroom at the University. I began to offer students hands-on learning experience that was more effective than the lecture/discussion. UMA was most supportive especially when I expressed my desire to go on internship. Within a week’s time, the staff was able to connect me with a mentor and within the month, everything was finalized! I am very grateful to UMA. The flexibility of the distance learning program and the reasonable cost offered by UMA have made it possible for me to take up this course. The openness of my mentor has helped me discover myself, too. I know UMA will be with me as I continue to pursue my goals and I’m glad that there’s someone “world-class” to lean on to - now and in the future.

Christine Lonergan, Washington DC: Thanks to UMA, I have grown as a person, parent, and teacher. The intensive instruction enlightened me on my inner self, the holistic approach, and the intricate needs of the child: physically, intellectually, socially, and emotionally. In my opinion, the high standards throughout the curriculum were the most significant to the U.M.A. program. With each exercise, I felt challenged. The requirements were clearly defined and motivating. The responses to my written work were always constructive, clear, and positive. As a student in the UMA program, I felt the instructors valued my work, and in turn, I respected and learned from their advice. In my opinion, the staff’s commitment to detail kept the program polished. Their personal and professional approach made me feel that I was an important and integral part of the UMA program. I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to the UMA staff. You have provided me with a strong Montessori foundation. Your all-encompassing program has given me the confidence to pursue my future work.

Kimberley Tolley, Maine: The curriculum was challenging and thought provoking. The insights from my evaluator on every assignment took my understanding of the concepts to another level. I never felt that the responses or comments on the assignments were “canned” or routine. They seemed to really care that I grasped the principles and was able to see myself executing them in a way that would make Maria Montessori proud. I wasn’t sure what to expect from a distance learning process, but I would do it again in an instant after this experience. Keep up the excellent work. The personalized service that the UMA is providing to those seeking an education in Montessori instruction rivals that of any university or teaching institution. I’m proud to have completed the program and am more than thrilled to recommend the program to others. I feel that I not only have mentors in Trudy and John, but friends as well. I sense their spiritual connection to the world and the work they are doing is truly making our world a better place to live in.

Beverly Gislason, Iceland: UMA met my full expectations and more! The assignments and assessments were sent quickly and promptly. I was amazed at the depth, thoroughness and detail. I always felt free to say and ask anything. The encouraging personal words made me feel part of a “family” more than an isolated person on the Internet!! I fully intend to allow UMA to be a continued benefit to me in that fact that I wish to include them in advising and counseling my husband and I as we set up our Montessori School in Iceland !!

Linda Haberkorn, Virginia: I am very grateful for the opportunity to have worked through this course to completion. It has been an excellent learning experience and I am excited about my future as a Montessorian. I feel confident that I am fully prepared to be an affective Montessori teacher. The lecture notes, assigned readings, assigned lessons, follow up, observations, text books, and UMA reference materials all worked together to prepare me to work as a Montessori teacher. I want to say thank you again to you, Trudy and to John, for all your help and encouragement. It has been a great way for me to complete my studies as I did not have to spend a lot of time away from my family traveling to a school that is some distance from my home. I was able to pace myself through the course and work on it in my own home, on my own timetable.

Theresa Turgeon, Montana: I just want to say thank you to my evaluator for the hard work she puts into this program, into her teaching…and for being the wonder person that she is. I know John and Trudy have spent many, many hours perfecting the lessons and researching Dr. Montessori’s method in order to perfect this distance-learning program. It has been a great pleasure working with them and they gave me every bit of confidence I needed. It’s been a lot of years since I had “homework” but I found it a real learning experience and a lot of fun as I completed each lesson. Thank you! I know if I have questions or need some advice I will be able to email or call Trudy or John anytime and they will be happy to give me any support I will need. They are great people, and very “down to earth,” and ready to lend their support and advice.

Amy Farrell, California: My life has changed a great deal from my experience with the UMA program. Probably the biggest change has been the confidence that I have gained with these skills. I was really surprised at the thoroughness of the responses that I received for my assignments. It was apparent that the assignments were carefully read and there was a high expectation for the work that I was turning in. I felt like my evaluator gave me excellent support. Because of my son’s birth and my family situation I took a few months off from the program and I felt like I was very supported during that transition time. You answered all of my questions and was very patient when there were assignments that I struggled with. Thank you for creating a program that I could do from home. It was a great opportunity to be able to learn so much, and I would not be able to do it if I had to go to a traditional school.