What “Accreditation” Means for Sterling
We are an active member of the American Montessori Society (AMS) and are pursuing full AMS school accreditation. AMS accreditation is widely regarded as the gold standard for Montessori schools because it sustains rigorous, research-aligned practice through a multi-step process: a comprehensive self-study involving the whole community, an on-site peer visit to verify alignment to AMS Standards & Criteria, and formal review by the AMS Commission and Board. Once achieved, accreditation typically spans seven years.
We are engaged with the AMS Pathway of Continuous School Improvement, the framework that helps member schools demonstrate fidelity to Montessori while moving toward (and through) accreditation. The Pathway recognizes four stages: Member, Verified, Accreditation Candidate, and Accredited. Each signaling a deeper alignment to Montessori’s core components and quality standards.
The 5 Core Components We Uphold
AMS identifies five essentials of authentic Montessori implementation. These live at the heart of our program:
- Trained Montessori teachers
- Multi-age classrooms (approximately three-year spans)
- Use of Montessori materials
- Child-directed work
- Uninterrupted work periods
These components are the backbone of our classroom experience and the lens for continuous improvement as we pursue accreditation.
Academic Excellence as a North Carolina Public Charter School
As a North Carolina public charter school, Sterling meets all state requirements: we design our academic program to meet or exceed state performance standards, administer state-required assessments, and participate in the state accountability system—while preserving the Montessori approach that makes learning joyful and self-motivated.
Our curriculum aligns to the North Carolina Standard Course of Study. Montessori lessons and materials provide the “how,” and state standards ensure clarity about the “what” students learn across subjects.
How We Teach (The Sterling Way)
Our classrooms are intentionally prepared communities where children develop robust academics, executive function, and character—without sacrificing wonder.
We observe deeply
Teachers study each child’s interests and readiness, then tailor lessons that meet them where they are and move them forward.
We learn by doing
Sensorial, hands-on materials and long, uninterrupted work cycles turn focused effort into mastery and joy.
We foster independence and interdependence
Students practice autonomy while learning to contribute to—and rely on—their community.
We follow the science
Practice is evidence-informed and refined through ongoing self-study, peer feedback, and data.
We honor many backgrounds
Families bring a wide range of languages, cultures, and life stories—differences that enrich learning and strengthen our school.
Our AMS Accreditation Journey (At-a-Glance)
- Status: AMS member school, actively pursuing accreditation through the AMS Pathway.
- Focus Areas: High-fidelity Montessori in every classroom; continuous teacher development; environment & materials; outcome monitoring; and strong family partnership.
- Commitment: Maintain alignment to the 5 Core Components while meeting North Carolina’s academic standards and accountability expectations.
In short: we hold ourselves to two high bars—authentic Montessori and strong state results—so every student learns deeply, grows confidently, and is ready to contribute.