“Erdkinder” (Children of the Earth)
As we usher in the New Year there is one event in the minds and hearts of all Montessorians- The Centenary of the Montessori Movement. It was in January of 1907 that the first Montessori School was opened in Italy. Aren’t we privileged to live at this particular time in history! The Centenary gives us the opportunity to reflect toward a promising future.

My personal hope for the future is that all children in this planet will enjoy the relaxed beauty of learning in an ideal Montessori Environment.

Here at Ramalynn, to honor the 100th year anniversary of Montessori, we have embraced the idea of “ErdKinder” (Children of the earth) proposed by Dr. Montessori as an ideal setting for children. Most Montessori Schools are not as lucky to implement the “Land Component”.

This year at Ramalynn, the middle school children are privileged to experience “hands-on” learning on 20 acres of land in Lonsdale, Minnesota. This is quite an accomplishment for Ramalynn to celebrate the 100th year of the Montessori Movement.

At this newly acquired land, the Ramalynn students will participate in activities that offer a balance between manual and intellectual work. Through their work on the land, the Ramalynn Community will continue Dr. Montessori’s vision which deeply fosters respecting and preserving the civilization.

The students will be introduced to the wonders of nature through connecting with this land.

They will study:
• Century old oak trees
• Woodlands- a home to a thriving botanical and wildlife population.
• Organic Gardening and making compost
• Restoring an old farm house built in 1870
• Engage in soil study and plant ecology as well as the economics of production and exchange.

Besides the intellectual pursuits, this experience on the land offers many character building opportunities for Ramalynn Students. The land fosters meaningful social interactions such as Integrity, Respect and Responsibility.

“Erdkinder”, let us celebrate the century of the Montessori movement with embracing the land of our ancestors.

Lovingly,

Mrs. Lynn Ramalingam
Founder of R.M.A