Q: How long were you at CMS?

A: 10 years. I started when I was two and left after I finished sixth grade.

Q: Where are you now?

 A: I’m at Headwaters, which is a private school in Downtown Austin. It’s an IB school. I’m taking physics and environmental science. And I’m working with one of my teachers to publish a paper. I’m also applying for colleges and preparing for finals. 

Q: What are some of your most memorable moments at CMS?

A: Definitely the Model UN in New York. I was part of the second group that went. I was a shy kid. I didn’t like to talk to strangers. A friend who had been there the previous year pushed me to participate. But the skills I gained helped me. I became the President of the National Honor Society at my school because I learned to write good speeches.

Q: Describe your transition to high school after your time at CMS?

A: Nova did not exist in my time. For middle school, I attended another Montessori in South Austin. It was an easy transition. But high school was tough the first year because it was online. When I got back in person, it was easy to meet people and get involved in school. Academically, I didn’t have any problems although I was graded for the first time.

Q: How did your time at CMS prepare you for High School?

A:  Montessori taught me to love learning. There was no pressure. It was learning something because you were interested in it. That made it easier for me to be interested in learning in high school even though we do get grades. Learning for the sake of learning is what I got from Montessori.

Q: In what way did CMS impact your future?

A: I was petrified of skeletons, but my elementary guide helped me to get over my fear. Now,  I am seriously considering becoming a doctor.

Q: How do you think Montessori education prepared you for life?

A: Montessori taught me to love learning. There was no pressure. It was learning something because you were interested in it. That made it easier for me to be interested in learning in high school even though we do get grades. 

Q: Do you have any words of advice for current CMS adolescent students?

A: Changing schools will be challenging. But I believe Montessori helps. My college counselor says that she loves having Montessori kids because they are so interested in how the world works, and they are so invested in school. Don’t worry about the grades, they come second to learning.