The Primary program is for children ages 3 to 6 years. In the primary classroom, much of practical life has to do with adapting to one's own culture. Children learn to snap, button, tie bows, shine shoes, scrub tables, dust, polish, sweep, sew and cook. They also learn forms of manners common in culture such as shaking hands, saying excuse me and waiting ones turn. These activities are designed in a sequence of steps, through which the child comes to realize order and logical activity.

Some of the qualities that grow through this work are:

• Concentration
• Independence
• Carefulness
• Social awareness
• Exactness and coordination
• Helpfulness
• Self-discipline
• Self-esteem

Available Programs

9 AM - 12 PM/ 5 days per week

9 AM - 3 PM/ 5 days per week

Teachers

Mrs. Jasna Pozegic, Lead Teacher

Ms. Jasna began working at GDMS in 2001 as an assistant.  She earned her AMI Primary Teacher diploma from the Montessori Institute of Atlanta in 2005.  Ms. Jasna returned to GDMS as a lead teacher in 2006 after the birth of her twins.  Ms. Jasna is also a Licensed Practical Nurse, having studied at the Medical School Tuzla in Bosnia and Herzegovina.  Ms. Jasna speaks both Bosnian and English fluently.

Ms. Beth Camardella, Lead Teacher

Ms. Camardella holds an undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State University and earned her AMI Primary diploma from the Montessori Institute of Atlanta in 2001.  Ms. Camardella has six years teaching experience in the Montessori Primary environment.

Mrs. Doris Bonilla, Assistant

Mrs. DeDee Poole, Assistant