Palo Alto’s Bowman School Hosts Regional Symposium

Educators from across the U.S. and several countries gathered at Bowman School in Palo Alto on May 17 for a special Regional Symposium sponsored by the American Montessori Society (AMS). The event welcomed 210 participants from over 60 schools and teacher training programs, offering high-quality workshops, networking opportunities, and insights into Montessori best practices.

With a focus on child-centered education, peace-building, and authentic Montessori methods, the Symposium inspired attendees to bring renewed energy and training to their classrooms. As one of California’s most respected Montessori institutions, Bowman School played a key role in hosting and organizing the event, reinforcing its reputation as a national leader in progressive education.

A MONTESSORI SCHOOL UNLIKE ANY OTHER IN CALIFORNIA

Bowman stands out as the only Montessori school in the state fully accredited to serve children from 12 weeks old through 12th grade. With over 30 years of operation in Palo Alto, it has become a model for comprehensive, developmentally aligned education across all ages.

In addition to educating students, Bowman actively supports the broader Montessori community. It helped establish the Bay Area Montessori Association (BAMA), which recently expanded to a statewide coalition—now known as the California Montessori Alliance (CMA)—uniting Northern and Southern California Montessori schools for professional development, advocacy, and collaboration.

Bowman’s Head of School, Mary Beth Ricks, brings national and international expertise, serving on the boards of both AMS and the International Montessori Council (IMC).

MONTESSORI THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL: RELEVANT AND RIGOROUS

At Bowman, Montessori education continues through middle and high school, supporting independence, creativity, and a sense of purpose. Students engage in hands-on inquiry, real-world problem-solving, and interdisciplinary learning. High schoolers also have the opportunity to pursue the globally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.

With four thoughtfully designed campuses in Palo Alto—including a new high school building at 835 Page Mill Road—Bowman offers age-appropriate environments tailored to every stage of development.

To learn more about Bowman School’s unique Montessori journey from infancy to high school, visit bowmanschool.org, or email “admissions@bowmanschool.org.”