Who We Are
My name is Catherine Walker, aka Ms. Cat. I am the Executive Director and Lead Teacher of Golden Elementary Montessori, aka GEM.
My family and I moved back to Iowa in 2007. We had been living in California, where there are many Montessori schools from infant through elementary. I worked at a Montessori preschool 2005-2007 while living in CA and it was there I found my love for Montessori education.
When we returned to Iowa, I discovered there was a Montessori preschool in Dubuque! I was very excited because I knew nothing about it before I had children. As I taught in the 3-6 year old classroom, I was continually amazed at the growth of our students. I knew Montessori Elementary was something they needed to continue the growth the children were having.
This has been a dream that is coming to reality. Starting small and growing and learning each year, Golden Elementary Montessori (GEM) will open and eventually serve children in grades first through sixth.
If you ever have questions, feel free to contact me and I will be happy to answer them. I look forward to opening and cannot wait to meet the families and children who will be a part of this Montessori community!
Our Approach
We Facilitate Student Driven Learning
“If education is always to be conceived along the same antiquated lines of a mere transmission of knowledge, there is little to be hoped from it in the bettering of man’s future.” ~ Dr. Maria Montessori
Children learn in a variety of ways. Some children need to move around. Some children prefer to sit on the floor to work or stand up at a desk. Many children learn through experiences or using hands on materials. A Montessori education gives them freedom within limits. The teacher is a guide to help the children challenge themselves in their own learning.
01.
— Our Mission
At GEM, we strive to provide an array of experiences using the research based Montessori method and enviornment, to allow student driven learning and independence, while recognizing failure as an opportunity for growth.
02.
— Our Vision
We believe in providing meaningful, non-traditional opportunities for individualized learning in a diverse community-focused environment.