Radical Joy and Classroom Management

1.5 CPDs, Run Time 51:45

The dominant narrative in education tells us that teaching is an act of survival—defined by overwork, unmanageable classrooms, and unrealistic expectations. But what if we challenged this story? What if our classrooms were centered instead on the joy and wellbeing of both teachers and children?
In this lesson, I’ll explore the transformative power of joy in Montessori environments and communities, and how leading with joy is a radical act of resistance against the current educational climate. We'll explore practical ways to transform your classroom from a space of mere survival into one filled with joy, and how this shift can impact your entire community.
Tom Brown is an AMI-trained guide specializing in both elementary and adolescent education, with an M.Ed. in Montessori Education and over a decade of experience teaching in public and private Montessori settings. He is the founder of Marigold Montessori, where he currently serves as an educational consultant, presenter, and coach. Tom has played a key role in establishing, leading, and supporting the growth of several Montessori schools and organizations in both the US and UK. He is also the editor of Direction Magazine, a publication of AMI UK. His work is driven by a deep commitment to social justice, ABAR (Anti-Bias, Anti-Racism) education, youth advocacy, and child-centered learning.