How Montessori and STEAM Work Together

At its core, the Montessori philosophy encourages children to explore, discover, experiment, and learn by doing. STEM learning, or in our case, a STEAM-based approach, builds upon that same foundation.

In our Montessori classrooms, our children investigate scientific concepts, engineer creative solutions, apply mathematical thinking, express themselves creatively and artistically, and make meaningful connections across disciplines. STEAM is fully integrated into each classroom from Toddler to Middle School.

Our students experience STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) through project-based learning, engineering challenges, scientific investigations, coding, Maker Faire projects, environmental studies, and regional STEM competitions. These experiences encourage collaboration and innovation while helping students connect classroom learning to the world around them.

Why STEM-Certification Matters

In 2017, Hudson Montessori engaged in the rigorous process to become the first (and still the only) National Institute for STEM Education (NISE) STEM-certified school campus in New Jersey. We gained this distinction 18 months later in 2019. 

At the time, we were one of the few elementary schools in the entire nation to become certified—most were high schools or middle schools. This distinction matters because it’s more than a label; we provided evidence through our Montessori philosophy and approach that we are STEAM school. 

Our journey didn't stop with campus certification. Several of our Montessori educators also earned the National Certificate for STEM Teaching through NISE, demonstrating their expertise in research-based STEM instruction and their commitment to continuous professional growth. 

The certification process emphasizes instructional excellence, student-centered learning, and real-world problem solving, which have been at the core of the Montessori philosophy for over a century.

Making STEAM Connections

As we prepare to launch our STEAM Connections information hub online, we'll be leading you on the journey of our experiences, told by students, our teachers, and our community partnerships, which are at the heart of what makes our STEAM program strong.

We invite you to join us as we explore how Montessori and STEAM come together at Hudson Montessori School to inspire the next generation of curious thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and compassionate leaders.

Hudson Montessori School, located in downtown Jersey City, serves children from 18 months through 8th grade. The teachers use an interdisciplinary, theme-based learning approach grounded in Montessori philosophy and methodology to foster students' love of learning. Our nationally certified STEM campus is the only one of its kind in New Jersey, featuring STEM-certified teachers who meet the highest standards set by the National Institute for STEM Education. The school welcomes parents to a school tour to learn more about its programs.