Leadership at Sammamish Montessori School, isn’t just a concept—it’s a lived experience. The Primary Leaders Club, an initiative for elementary students, was born out of the Montessori philosophy of fostering independence, responsibility, and empathy. This unique program allows older students to take on leadership roles by working closely with younger children, creating a nurturing environment where both groups grow and thrive.
We believe leadership begins with learning to take initiative, plan thoughtfully, collaborate effectively, and follow through with meaningful actions. Through carefully designed activities, we nurture these skills in our students, encouraging them to become proactive and compassionate leaders. This philosophy is woven into all aspects of our program, from festive celebrations to community-building experiences.
Showcasing leadership – Learning through storytelling and presentation
This year, at Sammamish Montessori School, we utilized classroom presentations to exhibit a child’s leadership ability. Our lower elementary students led a “Historic Halloween” celebration that showcased their growing confidence and creativity. As part of the event, the students researched historical figures, selected a character to present, and worked collaboratively with their families to uncover famous quotes and prepare costumes. On the event day, dressed as their chosen characters, the students presented clues and recited lines to help our curious kindergarteners guess who they were portraying. This activity not only deepened the students’ understanding of history but also taught them valuable public speaking skills, planning, and how to engage their audience in a fun, interactive way. By working together and with their families, they experienced the joy of teamwork while building a bridge of inspiration for the younger children.
Community meals and graceful leadership
In another memorable experience, the lower elementary students hosted a community lunch with the toddler classroom, demonstrating grace and courtesy throughout the event. From helping toddlers set up their places to cleaning up afterward, our students took pride in being role models. The meal included a special treat: a dessert prepared by all the children to celebrate Diwali. Working together to create something meaningful highlighted the importance of teamwork, patience, and cultural appreciation. After lunch, our elementary students read books to the toddlers, gently helping them transition into their nap routines. This thoughtful interaction allowed the older children to practice empathy and responsibility while the toddlers found comfort and inspiration in their older peers.
Shared learning adventures
Our classroom regularly collaborates with other age groups for shared experiences. For example, a recent field trip to the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) with the kindergarteners encouraged cross-age bonding and shared exploration. This activity helps older students refine their leadership skills by guiding younger ones while fostering a sense of community and mutual respect.
Looking Ahead – A culture of compassionate Leadership
We are excited to continue developing our students’ leadership skills with future projects. One upcoming initiative is a donation drive, where elementary students will lead efforts to collect clothing and necessities for children in need. They will take charge of the planning, organization, and communication required for the project, further reinforcing their sense of responsibility and initiative. Why Leadership Matters in Montessori Education: Montessori education emphasizes leadership as a natural extension of the child’s development. Students learn to take initiative, solve problems, and collaborate effectively by engaging in age-appropriate leadership roles. Our program fosters these skills through real-life experiences, empowering children to see themselves as capable leaders who can positively impact their communities. Through events like Historic Halloween, community meals, and shared field trips, we give our students opportunities to grow as leaders while building meaningful relationships with peers and younger students. These activities also help younger children feel inspired and supported as they observe their older friends leading with confidence and grace. As our students continue to embrace these roles, they embody the Montessori values of independence, respect, and care for the community. By nurturing these qualities, we prepare our students for their current academic and social journeys and equip them with the skills and mindset to be thoughtful, compassionate leaders of tomorrow.
