ANGOLA, IND. (07/29/2020) Laurie Stockton-Moreno's passion for Montessori education began with her daughter's school experience and has led her into teaching, administration and even a classroom for homeless children.

As director of Trine University's new Montessori teacher education degree program, she hopes to share that passion with current and future educators.

"The rewards that come from sharing something that means so much to me, and is so relevant to human development, are many," she said. "For me, it is partly about connecting with people, partly about discovery of the value of the Montessori method, and partly about the dream of bringing aspects of the Montessori approach to a wide variety of educators.

“ My hope is that I will be able to inspire countless others to witness the magic of the Montessori method, and to help create more opportunities for inclusion of this philosophy of education in northern Indiana and beyond."

"We are thrilled to have Laurie join Trine University to launch our new Montessori Education program," said Anthony Kline, Ph.D., dean of Trine's Franks School of Education. "Laurie brings varied and distinct experiences in Montessori education, a visionary and collaborative spirit, and a history of excellence while balancing multiple priorities."

Stockton-Moreno's introduction to Montessori education came when some friends recommended a Montessori school for her daughter.
Trine's Montessori teacher education program will be one of only a few undergraduate programs in the nation offered at the university level, and will provide training that leads toward state-recognized Montessori licensure for both undergraduate students and teachers already in the field.

"We are committed to becoming a leader in the state and region of Montessori preparation for both undergraduate and in-service teachers," Kline said. "We are working to earn national accreditation, which would allow us to be the first university in the state to offer Montessori licensure. In doing so, educators can be equipped with Montessori education.