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mdmcs non-profit

Our Organization

Montessori del Mar Community School is a non-profit independent school.  It was founded in the spring of 2018.  The organization is made up of a Board of Directors and staff, and serves the learning community of MDMCS. 

Mission

At MdMCS, our mission is to create a purposeful, stimulating, and nurturing Montessori learning environment. Learning at MdMCS is an expansive, child-centered, and collaborative undertaking rooted in the Montessori values of social justice, humanitarianism, and environmental stewardship. 

 

Vision

Our vision is to create a vibrant and comprehensive Montessori program serving the diverse community of the Mendocino coast.  At Montessori del Mar Community School, we believe that children are inherently capable, responsible and trustworthy.  We strive to create an environment that respects and fosters these qualities where children realize their academic, social, and personal potential while maintaining a global perspective.

 

Anti-Bias and Inclusion at MdMCS

Montessori del Mar Community School values inclusion and respect of all humans regardless 

of gender and sexual identity or orientation, race, national origin, ancestry, primary language, religion, class, mobility, marital status, and religious beliefs.  We integrate anti-racist and anti-bias lessons and themes into all classrooms and practice nonviolent confrontation of bias. 

MdMCS will use grace, courtesy and education to confront bias, discrimination and prejudice in our community. After documented attempts at anti-bias education, MdMCS reserves the right to exclude from our school any adult or child persisting in creating a hostile environment for others through discriminatory or biased practices or statements.

Fundraising & Donations

Through donations and fundraising, MdMCS provides opportunities for reduced tuition families, expanded programming, staff development, and enrichment for students in areas like music, art and language. MdMCS accepts donations from MdM families and the North Coast community and holds many fundraising events throughout the year.  For more information on fundraising and donations, speak to any MdMCS Director or mail donations here: MdMCS-Donations, PO Box 1831, Fort Bragg, CA 95437 OR click on the button below ...

Programs

MdMCS operates as an independent Montessori school providing full-time instruction in all content areas. It also runs a Nutrition Education Program at Monday-Thursday at the school.   Families who participate in the all organic and vegetarian meal program pay a fee which covers the costs of food and the chefs. MdMCS also provides an Extended Day Program for registered families for an additional fee.  

In 2020, we added the Montessori Inspired Independent Study program to our offerings. This program integrates Montessori principles with independent study practices. Our independent study program is designed for families wishing to guide their child's learning at home with the support of an MdMCS teacher, the structure of MdMCS provided curriculum, and the resources of the MdMCS learning community. This is a separate program from our classroom based program and has its own designated teacher.

Board of Directors' Meetings

The MdMCS Board of Directors meet monthly.  Meeting dates, agendas, and minutes are announced/shared via email and this website. 

mdmcs board of directors

MdMCS Directors:

  • Zoe Bachelor-Sheppard, President & Promotions/Design

  • Chandra Blencowe, Treasurer

  • Rebecca Yaffe Mayes, Secretary

  • Jennie Bower, Member

  • Roshan Ashford, Member

  • Ryanne Martell, Publicity

MdMCS Board meets quarterly. Fundraising committees meet monthly.

The MdMCS Board of Directors has 5 to 9 Director seats. Officer positions include President, Treasurer, and Secretary. There also several committee chairs including Fundraising Chair. Directors are volunteers and receive no compensation for their efforts on behalf of the school.

MdMCS meetings are an opportunity for parents and the public to observe and participate in the leadership workings of the school and keep up to date on school operations and policies.  It is the responsibility of the MdMCS Directors to advise the Executive Director on programming, staff and operations, as well as to enact policies and encourage practices that maintain the vision and values of Montessori del Mar Community School and its learning community. 

The Montessori del Mar Community School Board of Directors meet quarterly for business meetings and monthly for fundraising planning.  The meetings are announced by email by the Board President and minutes can be found on this website. Agendas are sent out the day before by email and posted on this website. Meetings are open to the public and there is opportunity for public comment. 

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