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.

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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.) 

• 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

• 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

• 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

Schedule 

Timeline

• Please check back for information about the next opportunity to enroll in this class.

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.