Anti-bias, Antiracist (ABAR) Certificate Program

The AMS Anti-Bias, Antiracist (ABAR) Certificate Program provides a thorough examination of ABAR education to support Montessori schools and classrooms in creating just and equitable spaces for all. This program responds to Maria Montessori’s mandate that we engage in a systematic study of self.

In this class, you will develop a solid understanding of ABAR education, engage in transformative discussions, explore the complex nature of anti-bias work, and strive to deepen commitment to liberation and living out the fundamental tenets of Montessori education.

Registration for the Fall cohort is now closed. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive notifications when this class opens again.

What to Expect

You will join a cohort of up to 30 individuals for a 12-week, 12-module program that includes live experiences in “odd weeks” (week 1, week 3, etc.) and self-guided study in “even weeks” (week 2, week 4, etc.) 

• When: September 9 - December 13, 2024, with live Zoom sessions on Wednesdays, 7:00 – 8:30 PM (ET)
• For: All (Administrators and educators of all program levels and the broader Montessori community)
• Format:  A blend of live (synchronous) experiences and on-demand (asynchronous) content
• CPD Hours: 72 - A certificate of AMS Professional Development Hours will be emailed upon completion. An opportunity to purchase a CEU certificate for 7.2 CEUs will also be made available upon completion of the class at a cost of $28.

Upon successful completion of the program, you will be awarded an AMS ABAR Certificate attesting to your mastery of the program.

Benefits of the Class

• Learn basic ABAR terminology and language that is both reaffirming and validating
• Discover the deeply rooted connections between ABAR education and Montessori philosophy
• Learn about the goals of ABAR education for both children and adults
• Deepen your knowledge of culturally responsive instruction and its impact on academic learning and the social emotional health of your students
• Increase your understanding about the beliefs, assumptions, and observations that shape our experiences in the classroom
• Develop strategies that enhance bias recognition personally and professionally

Program Modules

• Unpacking Our Identities
• Who Am I? Healthy Racial Identity for Students Across All Planes of Development
• Gender Fluidity, Neurodiversity, and Ableism
• Speaking Up: Identity Action Mini-Project
• Power, Privilege, and Oppression in Montessori Environments
• Curriculum Violence: What It Is and How to Stop It

• Creating Prepared Environments for Equity and Justice
• Speaking Up: Interruption Mini-Project
• Advocating for Yourself and Others
• How to Be an Aspiring Ally
• Getting Out of the Way: Working for Equity in Montessori Institutions
• Speaking Up: Allyship and Advocacy Mini-Project

Cohort 10 (Fall 2024)

Timeline

Registration for the Fall cohort is now closed. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive notifications when this class opens again.

• Registration deadline: September 3, 2024 or until full
• Program begins: September 9, 2024
• Program ends: December 13, 2024

Live sessions are on Wednesdays, 7:00 – 8:30 PM (ET).

Cost & Scholarships

• Members: $1,300
• Non-Members: $1,400

The AMS Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Scholarship Program provides financial support for eligible applicants. Learn more.

About the Facilitator

Sherita Shargusingh

Sherita Sargusingh is a seasoned educator with over two decades of experience in working with families and young children. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Studio Arts and a Master of Education in Instructional Technology. Sargusingh is a dedicated advocate for Montessori and multicultural education, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and social justice initiatives in her community. She is actively involved as a conference speaker, curriculum and web designer, K-12 virtual educator, Infant & Toddler teacher, mentor, and school leader.