At Desert Sky Montessori we believe all children should have the benefit of a tuition-free Montessori education. We know that an interest-led education stokes the flame of joyful learning, inspires responsibility, self-discipline, leadership and so much more.

This year, we are pleased to announce that we added a Spanish second language program at Desert Sky. Presently, our children receive one hour a week of instruction from our new Spanish teacher.

As a Charter School, Desert Sky receives 80% of its funding from Bend-La Pine Schools. The rest must come through fundraising. The community is the backbone of support, filled with the passion of educating the children.

The aim of our giving campaign is to raise $15,000 to extend and enrich our Spanish program.

You see, there are many cognitive benefits of learning a second language, such as improved memory, problem solving and critical thinking skills, enhanced concentration and the ability to multi-task. All these are important executive functioning skills that help children be successful in school and in life.

Equally importantly, learning a second language can actually increase empathy. This year, our school has children who have moved from another country and do not speak English. As the native English speakers struggle to learn Spanish, they can fully empathize with the task of moving between countries.

Interestingly, learning a second language can help children develop a better understanding of their native language. When being exposed to a new speech and language structure children may notice the differences in structure and gain a better understanding of how their language functions.

In our Montessori classrooms we use three-part cards to teach vocabulary. To increase the childrens’ success in learning Spanish, we would like to have Spanish materials in all classrooms that the children can utilize between lessons.

We also aim to increase the amount of time our Spanish teacher can be in the classes, working naturally alongside the children speaking Spanish.

Thank you for helping us increase Spanish teacher time and independent study materials in the beautiful Desert Sky Montessori environment by giving to #GivingTuesday #IgniteSpanish at #DesertSky.

Desert Sky Montessori

A Public Montessori School

Fundraising Campaigns

Ignite Spanish