Reflecting Back on My Montessori Upbringing

by Haley Ogbemudia

The culture established in Mrs. Gloria’s schools prepares its students not only for academic success, but for life beyond its doors. The Montessori influence gives students a role to play, where they actively take part in maintaining their environment, setting the table, and practicing manners alongside the standard education curriculum. The skillset one gains is unmatched, as I can draw from personal experience.

As one of Mrs. Gloria’s two daughters, I have had the opportunity to attend her first school establishment back in Massachusetts during pre-school to kindergarten, arguably some of the most important years for young children. While at Dovecrest, my older sister, Britney, and I learned to set the table, use appropriate greetings for the people we encountered, how to dress appropriately for occasions, be good listeners, common courtesy, consideration, camaraderie and class. While I may not have realized then, the values I was given at the beginning of my life is what I continue to utilize and fall back on today.

Currently, I am in my final year in college, and the leadership opportunities I have stepped into without second thought or the internships I have vouched for myself were not a result of my own doing. The confidence instilled in me from Dovecrest, from the teachers who believed in me and made me comfortable, from my peers who were my biggest supporters, to my family – they are the reason I have reached the aspirations I have.

In the next few years, I plan to begin medical school to pursue surgery. While I anticipate this will be an intellectually challenging life path, the outcome to honor a community and be trusted with their care is a strong calling I have had for my entire life. My mother’s selflessness in her journey through the field of early childhood has taught me the value of hard work and dedication. Watching her uplift everyone who has helped her advance her brand has taught me the importance of humility. Therefore, as we begin to highlight the childcare system success stories I wanted to start with Mrs. Gloria, one of my biggest role models in life. It has been a blessing having someone like her as not only a resource but a mother, who managed to excel in both roles.