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October brings the launch of two new Montessori community discussion forums offered by the International Montessori Council (IMC).  The IMC has hosted their Leadership Forum for about 9 years offering school leaders an opportunity to discuss important topics and support each other as they work together to build a stronger Montessori community. Building on the success of the Leadership Forum, IMC is now expanding their offerings to provide two new forums beginning in October. The Educators Forum will take place monthly bringing together new and experienced Montessori guides to explore topics to enhance their work as Montessori educators. 

IMC Global Peace & Leadership Forum will initially be held quarterly, scheduled at a time that will work for more of our international community. 

While the forums are considered an IMC membership benefit, the live sessions are open to the entire Montessori community, with recordings available to individual and school members. 

Upcoming Forums:

IMC Global Peace & Leadership Forum

Educating Hearts and Minds for Peace, Leadership, and Lifelong Success

October 8^th, 2025

8:00am US (EDT) See more time zones below. 

The IMC Global Peace & Leadership Forum aims to empower Montessori leaders, educators, and guides with tools, strategies, and inspiration to align peace education with academic excellence and future readiness. Participants gain practical approaches to strengthen soft skills such as empathy, collaboration, and integrity in their school communities, while also ensuring rigorous academics that prepare students for higher education and meaningful careers. By attending, you’ll connect with an international network of Montessori changemakers, leaving with renewed clarity, confidence, and actionable steps to lead with dignity and make a lasting impact on children and society.

8:00pm – China (CST), Singapore (SGT), Manila (PHST) /7:00 pm Hanoi, Thailand (ICT), Jakarta (WSB), 9:00pm Tokyo (JST), 5:30pm Delhi (IST), 1:00pm London (BST) 2:00 pm Warsaw (CEST) Johannesburg (SAST) 4:00pm Abu Dhabi (GST), 10:00pm Sydney (AEST) 

Don’t see your time zone check here, put in New York, then your city:

https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/meeting.html

You can find out more information at the IMC website: https://imcmontessori.org/

IMC Educators Forum: 

Compassionate School Cultures

October 15, at 8pm EDT 

Special Guest David Rotberg, Lower Elementary guide at Pines Montessori, 15 years in Montessori & counting.

The inaugural topic delves into school culture. Now that our classroom communities are settling in, this is the perfect time to ask: what about our whole school community? This is not about reinventing the wheel, but rather, looking at our philosophy through a different lens. We will explore how to apply what we already know to help foster a school culture rooted in love and humility.

Joining from a different time zone? Check for your time zone below!

Put in New York, then your city:

https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/meeting.html

You can find out more information at the IMC website: https://imcmontessori.org/

A Self-Soothing and Calming Approach for Teachers, Students and Families

Stress and anxiety have become far too common companions for many in society in general which then spills over into our classrooms.  Montessori guides, both new and those with significant experience, are often expressing concerns about the high numbers of children who are dysregulated, overstimulated, and having difficulty with focus and attention. We try to meet each child and family where they are and provide support, but sometimes the task seems daunting, and our teachers feel overwhelmed.  What we need is some new strategies in our toolbox.  This is why CGMS is happy to partner with Havening for Humanity to introduce a new and very effective approach that helps individuals with self-regulation, calming, and reducing stress.

WHAT IS HAVENING?

Havening is a relatively recent psychosensory approach designed to reduce emotional distress while simultaneously enhancing psychological well-being. Havening utilizes the kinesthetic sense perception of soothing touch to the hands, arms and face.  It is simple and effective such that even very young children can learn to use the technique independently.

This gentle touch, when combined with pleasant distractions(humming/counting), sends an influx of neurochemical transmitters, which calms the brain, reduces stress, improves mood, facilitates receptivity for learning and facilitates connection to self and others.  It can be taught safely and simply and can be exponentially passed on to others from school leaders and teachers to the students and families. The versatility, applicability, and creativity of the Havening technique is so dynamic and fluid that it is easily used in both large and small groups, individually, or with a partner as well as for families and teacher self-care.
HAVENING means…”to put into a safe place”.

One of the Havening mantras designed by Dr. Rudan( a founding partner in this work) applicable for our training is as follows:

“I open my mind to learning,
 I open my heart to friendship,
 I choose to feel safe, calm and peaceful”

To highlight the impact and value of Havening, CGMS is offering a free webinar: “Havening and Montessori: A Self-Soothing and Calming Approach for Teachers, Students, and Families.”

Please join Kitty Bravo, CGMS Director of Education and presenters Marilyn Pearlman, LCSW and Erika Neil, LCSW on October 14th at 7PM ET for a FREE Webinar that will introduce Havening and how it can help individuals cope with everyday stress, anxiety, and more.  You will learn how to share this amazing approach for your school, your classroom, yourself and families. It is uplifting, fun and profound at the same time.

How to Register For This Event:

Please note: You may register at any time before the live event on October 14th, 2025.

Registration for the event will close at 6:45 PM, 15 minutes before the start time. Be sure to secure your spot early!

This webinar is free. Simply fill out the registration form below to receive event details:

Click here to register

MARILYN PEARLMAN, LCSW

Marilyn Pearlman brings her diverse background and training, blending her skills from Occupational Therapy(OTR) and Clinical Social work(LCSW), receiving her BS from Boston University and MSW from The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. She has resided in Sarasota, Florida, for more than 30 years, during which she developed and operated a dually licensed (OTR/L and LCSW) private practice specialized for toddlers through teens and their families having sensory integration, behavioral and educational challenges. During this period she consulted for many of the public and private schools throughout Sarasota, including the New Gate Montessori School. For these last 15 years she has maintained a private psychotherapy practice, continuing to bring new, cutting-edge concepts and techniques into her work and relationships. Marilyn’s scope of experience goes across all ages and populations. Her specialized trainings are in sensory integration, couples and family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma resolution therapy, clinical and past-life hypnosis and EFT. She has been a Certified Brain Coach with The Amen Clinic for more than 10 years. And most recently has added Certified Havening Practitioner and a Humanitarian Havener with The Havening organization.

ERIKA NEIL, LCSW 

Erika Neil is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the greater Washington DC metropolitan area, focusing on trauma treatment and strengthening resilience. She is a Havening trainer and is also trained in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction), Reiki, Quantum Touch, Emotional Freedom Technique, Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, the Flash Technique, Brainspotting, and Trauma Tapping. She attended Harvard University, Columbia University Law School, and Catholic University School of Social Service.

Erika has delivered psychological first aid on several continents with Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charities and Humanitarian Havening. Prior to becoming a social worker, Erika was a lawyer for abused and neglected children in Washington, DC. She was also a school social worker for fifteen years in Northern Virginia before becoming a full-time therapist. Havening techniques have brought about dramatic change and growth in her clients. Erika’s style is collaborative, warm, and solution-focused. She was trained by Havening’s founder, Dr. Ron Ruden and was the first certified Havening practitioner in the Washington, DC area. Erika is passionate about spreading awareness of Havening worldwide, and particularly among young people and families.

When people hear “online training,” they often picture a lonely experience—pre-recorded videos, zero connection, and minimal support.

But at CGMS, it’s different.

At CGMS, Online Doesn’t Mean Impersonal

It’s easy to assume that online training means watching videos alone—but not with CGMS. From the very beginning, you’ll be part of a supportive learning community. Our live cohort sessions, online discussion groups, and responsive instructors ensure you feel seen, heard, and supported every step of the way.

You’ll Learn in Community—Not in Isolation

At CGMS, you won’t be going through this journey alone. You’ll join a dynamic cohort of learners from across the region, with regular group meetings and collaborative projects that bring the philosophy to life. Our online space is active, engaging, and supported by experienced instructors who are there to respond—not just observe.
This is online learning that actually feels human.

You’ll Be Supported, Engaged, and Never Left Behind

Unlike many online programs where learners feel isolated or overlooked, CGMS keeps you actively connected to your instructors and peers. Through regular discussions, guided coursework, and live cohort sessions, you’ll stay engaged in meaningful learning. This sense of connection makes the experience feel personal and collaborative, building relationships that last long after the program ends.

You’ll Still Get Hands-On Experience

CGMS offers a two-week in-person residency, held regionally, so you don’t have to travel outside of Asia.
During this time, you’ll work with Montessori materials, observe experienced educators, and practice giving lessons—all while receiving live feedback and building connections with your cohort.

Ready to Discover the CGMS Experience?

If you’re looking for an online program that combines deep connection, real-world experience, and supportive community—CGMS might be the fit you’ve been searching for.

To learn more about our MACTE-Accredited Teacher Credential Programs, click the link below to get started!

Click Here For More Information

After much anticipation, CGMS has launched our new Secondary Fundamentals professional development course. This 8-week program is designed for Administrators supporting secondary staff or considering starting a secondary program, Teachers/Guides of secondary programs who do not have a Montessori secondary credential and even experienced secondary guides who want new perspectives, inspiration, and professional development hours.  Learners can expect to put in coursework for approximately five hours weekly, including four live classes on Zoom.

Topics will include:

•  Bird’s-Eye View of Montessori Secondary
• Understanding Adolescent Development and the importance of Valorization!
• The value of the Seven Pillars of Montessori Secondary
• Erdkinder: Connecting to Nature
• Erdkinder – Business and Financial Independence
• Erdkinder – Museum: Thinking Structures – Thinking Made Visible
• Field Experience – Place and Service Learning

Practical application that can be used upon completion of this course:

•  Become grounded in the Fundamentals of Montessori Secondary (12-18 year olds) 
• Understand what makes a secondary program a Montessori program
• Explore appropriate environments, materials, and curriculum for teens
• Learn exactly what Erdkinder is and why it is the essential heartbeat of secondary work… and how to incorporate the principles of Erdkinder in any environment.
• Work with a Montessori Secondary Expert to get support for your practice and program
• Learn key principles and practices you can put into play in your classrooms immediately!

Those who complete the entire 8 weeks and all assignments will be awarded a CGMS Professional Development Certificate.

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we pause to honor a leader whose vision and determination
reshaped the course of history. Dr. King’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the importance of
striving for justice, equality, and unity in all aspects of life. At CGMS, we are inspired by his
enduring message and remain committed to fostering a better future for all.
Dr. King’s Vision of Justice and Equality
Dr. King’s dream of a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect transcends time
and continues to guide our collective actions. His efforts to break down barriers and build
bridges between communities remind us that the pursuit of equality requires both courage and
collaboration.

As we reflect on his teachings, we are reminded that the fight for justice is not confined to the
past. It is a journey that each of us must continue, ensuring that our communities, workplaces,
and institutions reflect the values of fairness and inclusivity.

Dr. King’s vision challenges us to see beyond our differences and work together to create a
world rooted in love, peace, and understanding. As we honor his life, let us renew our dedication
to these ideals, striving to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

At CGMS, we are proud to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy and reaffirm our commitment to fostering
environments where respect, compassion, and a love of learning thrive. Let his example inspire
us to be agents of change, fostering brighter, more inclusive communities.
In the words of Dr. King, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate
cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Let us carry this message forward, spreading light
and love through our actions and illuminating a path toward unity and hope for generations to
come.

Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day,
The Center for Guided Montessori Studies