An arts demonstration and fundraising event is drawing attention to an education system now available in Squamish.
Independence and responsibility set Montessori schools apart from traditional education, according to the education system's supporters.
"Montessori education is a brain-based, developmental, educational method that allows children to make creative choices in how they discover the people, places and knowledge of the world," said founder of the newest local elementary school, Lindsay Graye.
"The big theme is freedom with limits."
Montessori education is a relatively new concept in Squamish, according to Graye.
"It started in 2008 with three children," he said. "Our preschool house now has over 40 children and then we have 12 in elementary - so we actually have over 52 children and we are hoping to expand over the years."
Teacher Nikolai Gurda said he believes giving a child more responsibility allows them the opportunity to exceed expectations.
"We instil them with an incredible amount of independence," said the Grade 1 through 3 teacher, himself a former Montessori elementary school student.
"It's amazing how when you give them that challenge, they rise to the occasion.."
The Squamish Montessori Parent Committee will be holding its inaugural fundraising event - Young at Art - on Oct. 17 starting at 7 p.m. at the Brackendale Art Gallery.
This event is centered on the theme of discovery and will feature live art demonstrations and creations, as well as viewing and auctioning a variety of art from different mediums.
Guests can watch as talented local artists generate unique works of art right before their eyes, while enjoying live music from violinist Yuko Iwanaga, tapas made by one of the Montessori parents and an inviting social atmosphere.
All art created and displayed during the event, such as paintings, photography, jewelry and pottery, will be auctioned off during the evening.
In addition, there are a variety of "art auction packages" for the silent auction: two Canucks tickets (art of sport), two fall planters (art of landscaping), a package of gift certificates to various local restaurants (art of food) and three nights stay at a fabulous vineyard and five star residence in Oliver, B.C. (art of wine tasting).
All proceeds go to the Squamish Montessori pre-school and elementary school classes for classroom materials, school promotion and creaetion of a fund to eventually build their own school.
Montessori currently uses classrooms at Squamish Elementary.
Further information is available by contacting contact Brenda Chelswick at [email protected] or 604-898-0737.
