COMMUNITY ADVOCATE – There is a moment, during morning drop-off, that Janet Gelcich treasures above all others. Coats are being unzipped, children are arriving excited for school, and the day is just getting underway. Janet greets each student with the type of warmth that tells a 3-year-old child that they belong.
“I am so passionate about early childhood education, and the impact that teachers and a child’s school experience can have throughout the rest of their life, “ Janet told the Community Advocate. “My favorite part of my day is greeting them in the morning, a fresh start every day, excited for what’s ahead.”
For the last decade, Janet and Heather Vinci– two individuals with extensive backgrounds in education – have envisioned running a school together. This year, they are officially opening Meadows Montessori School, located inside of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (183 West Main Street) in Westborough.
“We care about the children, their families, and providing a caring environment where they learn to be independent and prepared for what comes their way,” said Heather. “We can’t wait to bring Montessori education to Westborough families.”
Montessori education – developed more than a century ago by Italian physician Maria Montessori – involves hand-on, child-directed learning in mixed-age classrooms. The older students in the classroom develop leadership skills, younger children get some of their first role models, and each child is allowed to learn at their own pace.
It’s a type of upbringing that Janet and Heather are passionate about. Heather currently serves as the director of the South Shore Montessori School, an institution that she founded and continues to help thrive, while Janet serves as the Children’s House Director at the Riverbend School, an independent Montessori school in South Natick.
For both Janet and Heather, founding Meadows Montessori School is an opportunity to fulfill a dream, bring a tried-and-true educational approach to the area, and return to classroom-based roles where they can do what they love: directly impact students.
There’s nothing like contributing to a child’s formative years, they said.
“When a child leaves my classroom, as a kindergartner, I’ve had them for three years of
their lives –I’ve known them, and their families, for half of their life,” said Janet. “If I can set them up to be a kind, thoughtful person that can problem-solve, they can do anything! They are independent, capable, well-rounded human beings.”
Added Heather: “The exciting part of it is watching their independence. The entire classroom is set up for children to be successful. Everything they need is prepared. They can rely on one another. They’re learning from each other – young learns from old.”
For months, Janet and Heather have meticulously planned what the Meadows Montessori School experience will look like. It includes a bright and light-filled educational space, weekly enrichment activities, and opportunities for parent and family involvement. It’s a close-knit space where everyone is devoted to helping students.
Just as important to the founders is who gets through the door.
“We really want Montessori education to be affordable for everyone,” Janet said. “We want everyone to experience the magic of a Montessori education.”
Meadows Montessori School also offers extended-day and summer programs. The school is currently accepting sign-ups and inquiries, and is hosting a series of Open House events throughout the fall. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet Janet and Heather, view the classroom, and understand what Meadows is all about.
Looking for more information? Visit https://www.meadowsmontessoriwestboro.com/.
