Dr. Maria Montessori

1870 - 1952

Dr. Maria Montessori was the first woman to graduate from the University of Rome Medical School. Her interest in the education of children began with her work in treating mentally retarded children. Through her research, she realized that these children were able to learn much more than was generally believed. Her scientific research and teachings brought about remarkable results and set the foundation for the Montessori system of education.

In 1907 Dr. Montessori was invited to begin work with normal children. The slum area of San Lorenzo, Italy would be the setting for her first school. Dr. Montessori brought her philosophy and methodology to many parts of the world.

She continued to work, write, and lecture until she died in 1952 in Holland. Today her system thrives and continues to prove to be influential with current educational trends.