Montessori Teacher Education

Empowering the Next Generation of Montessori Guides

Become a Montessori Teacher. Make a Lasting Impact.

Over 50 Years of Excellence.

AMS & MACTE Accredited | Established 1968 | Santa Monica, California

The Santa Monica Montessori Institute (SMMI) prepares adult learners to become confident, professional Montessori educators through authentic training grounded in practice, mentorship, and Montessori integrity.

Our Program

“The real preparation for education is a study of one’s self. The training of the teacher is something far more than a learning of ideas. It includes the training of character; it is a preparation of the spirit.”

— Dr. Maria Montessori

The Santa Monica Montessori Institute (SMMI) offers professional Montessori Teacher Education programs for adult learners seeking to become accredited Montessori educators. With more than five decades of experience, SMMI prepares teachers to lead authentic Montessori environments with confidence, integrity, and purpose.

A Legacy of Montessori Excellence

Established in 1968, with assistance from internationally known Montessori educators, Claude Claremont, Francesca Claremont, and Mario Montessori, the Santa Monica Montessori Institute has successfully trained high‑quality Montessori educators for over 50 years.

Through close collaboration with adult learners, schools, and Montessori leaders around the world, SMMI has built a strong global network of alumni working throughout the United States, Canada, China, and beyond.

Our teacher education programs are recognized by Montessori schools worldwide seeking well‑trained, professional Montessori educators.

Why Enroll at the Santa Monica Montessori Institute?

Accreditation & Recognition

The Santa Monica Montessori Institute is proudly AMS and MACTE accredited, ensuring that our programs meet the highest standards of Montessori teacher education. Accreditation affirms the quality, rigor, and global recognition of a diploma earned at SMMI.

Proven Success

SMMI graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skill set necessary to work successfully in Montessori environments. Our alumni are in high demand across many Montessori schools both locally and internationally.

High Demand for Montessori Teachers

The demand for Montessori‑trained educators continues to grow rapidly, with over 6,000 Montessori schools in the U.S. alone, including more than 500 public programs. As Montessori education expands, so does the need for well‑prepared teachers.

Quality and Support

Adult learners at SMMI receive comprehensive Montessori albums, sample materials, hands-on practice with Montessori equipment, and exceptional mentorship during and after training. Our primary goal is student success.

Program Leadership You Can Trust

The Executive Director of the Santa Monica Montessori Institute, Pamela J. Crisman, brings over 35 years of Montessori leadership experience. She is a founding and charter member of MACTE and has played a key role in shaping Montessori accreditation standards. All SMMI faculty members are highly qualified Montessori educators with extensive classroom and adult‑education experience.

Flexible Formats

As many of our adult learners are also working professionals, we offer our course as a flexible, hybrid model.

Montessori Early Childhood Teacher Education Program

Program Focus

The Montessori Early Childhood Teacher Education Program prepares adult learners to guide children ages 2½ to 6 years in a prepared Montessori environment. Coursework integrates philosophy, curriculum, observation, and practicum to ensure competence and confidence in the classroom.

Core Curriculum Components

Adult learners receive comprehensive preparation in the following areas: