Montessori State Advocacy Groups

Working in concert with other Montessori proponents in your state is key to successful advocacy. The majority of education policy is created at the state and local level and most states have active advocacy coalitions that you can connect with to get involved. Click on a state below to find your state advocacy group along with links to information about Montessori teacher credential recognition, child-care regulations, QRIS, and more in your state. Policy information is fluid and we will be updating and expanding the information here over time. If you are aware of any changes that need to be made, please email info@montessoriadvocacy.org.

Montessori Educators of Alabama

Contact(s)

  • Megan Johnson: mjohnson@cmskids.org
  • Courtney Davis: courtney@ucmontessori.org

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: 19 years of age and a high school diploma or G.E.D.; within thirty (30) days after employment, child care workers/ teachers shall have at least twelve (12) clock hours of training in child-care and development.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Alabama career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential. College credits in ECE or a related field are required to advance to higher levels.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Alaska Montessori Association

Contact(s)

  • Sabrina Binkley: sabrina@sprucetreemontessori.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited insititution provides a pathway to lead teacher status.

Requirements: Minimum Requirements; 18 years of age and hold either a current child development associate (CDA) credential from the Council for Early Childhood Professional Recognition or a Montessori certificate issued by a program accredited by MACTE.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Type of Credential Recognized: A Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program

Additional Information: A Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program credential is recognized at level 8 of 12 on the Alaska career lattice. Level 8 is equivalent to 24 SEED EC related credits.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact(s)

  • Jenny Goode: jenegoode@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Additional Requirements:

18 years of age and a high school diploma/GED.

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: 18 years of age and a high school diploma/GED.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Arizona career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential. College credits in ECE or a related field are required to advance to higher levels.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Arkansas Montessori Movement and Alliance

Contact(s)

  • Amanda Rumancik: amandarumancik@gmail.com
  • Lizzie Kotyankar: arkansasmontessori@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: High school diploma/GED.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact(s)

  • Emma Johnston Leon: emma@montessorita.com
  • Megan Ricks: meganr@bowmanschool.org

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: 12 core semester units in early childhood education/development; 6 months experience in a licensed child-care center or comparable group child-care program.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The California career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential. College credits in ECE or a related field are required to advance to higher levels and without them individuals can only serve in support positions.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Colorado Montessori Association

Contact(s)

  • Martha Teien: martha@mtnmontessori.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: Certain Montessori credentials plus 12 months experience qualifies for lead teacher status

Requirements: Completion of a Department approved course of training. Approved Trainings include: Montessori Training approved for MECR, Montessori Centre International, AMI, or AMS.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Type of Credential Recognized: A Montessori credential from AMI, AMS affiliated or MACTE accredited program

Additional Information: A Montessori credential from AMI, AMS affiliated or MACTE accredited program awards 2 additional points in the system. When following the career lattice link click on "EC Professional Credential Worksheet" to see point system details.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently has a verification program. Contact your state group for more information.

Montessori Schools of Connecticut

Contact(s)

  • Paige Bray: bray@hartford.edu
  • Jill Evans: Jill.Evans@cobbschool.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

Yes

Type of Credential Recognized: AMI

Additional Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree plus:

For Birth to Kindergarten Teaching Endorsement

  • Special Education Course
  • 6 credits in Reading
  • 3 credits in Model Programs for Early Childhood Education

For Grades 1-6 Teaching Endorsement

  • Special Education Course
  • 6 credits in Reading
  • 3 credits in Math

Restrictions: This pathway to licensure allows individuals to teach in Montessori schools only.

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: 20 years of age or older; A high school diploma or equivalency certificate, and 1080 hours of documented supervised experience over a 9 month span of time or 12 credits in early childhood education or child development.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Montessori Works Delaware 

Contact(s)

  • Linda Zankowsky: lzankowsky@comcast.net
  • Cathy Lopez-Cooling: cathy@chmsde.org
  • :

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: A Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited insititution provides a pathway to lead teacher status.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential is recognized at level 8 of 10 on the Delaware career lattice. This level is equivalent to 15 ECE credits; or 12 SA related credits; Delaware First (DPEC) or DelaCare qualified. Level 8 professionals are qualified for the following positions: Montessori Lead Teacher (IT, SA or EC); Head Start Program/Center Coordinator; Early Head Start Program Coordinator; Early Head Start Director; Montessori Administrator; Early Head Start Family Advocate; CDA Representative

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

DC Montessori Coalition

Contact(s)

  • Rachel Kimboko: rachel.kimboko@dcwildflowerpcs.org
  • Charis Sharp: charissharpphd@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: An AMI, AMS, or NCME Montessori credential or a Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited institution provides a pathway to lead teacher status.

Requirements: An associate’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, and a Montessori certificate issued by AMI, AMS, NCME, or a MACTE accredited institution.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The D.C. career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential. College credits in ECE or a related field are required to advance to higher levels.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Florida Montessori Partnerships

Contact(s)

  • Lorna Cohen: lorna.cohen@cmcsmontessori.com
  • Josie Hill: jhill@lakelandmontessori.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: CDA

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Montessori Administrators of Georgia

Montessori Partnerships for Georgia

Contact(s)

  • Ashley Morris: amorris@montessoriteachered.com
  • Annie Frazier: annie@montessori-partnerships.org

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

Yes

Type of Credential Recognized: From a MACTE Accredited Institution

Additional Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
  • Passing score on the appropriate GACE content test
  • Three semester hours of acceptable college credit or five approved CEU’s in identifying and educating exceptional children covering all exceptionalities
  • Passing score on the Georgia Educator Ethics Exam, Program Exit Level

Restrictions: This pathway to licensure allows individuals to teach in Montessori schools only 

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: 18 years of age and an education requirement of at least a CDA or TCC in Child Development.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Adequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential is recognized at level 7 and 8 of 12 on the Georgia career lattice. The level 7 Montessori credential is equivalent to a Associate degree (AA/AS or AAS/AAT) in Early Childhood Education or Child Development . The level 8 Montessori credential paired with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology or Social Work is equivalent to Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BS) in Early Childhood Education or Child Development or a Non-ECE Bachelor’s, combined with an ECE Associate , ECE TCD, or containing ECE/ECE-related course-work (15 semester or 25 qtr. hours

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Montessori of Oahu

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

Yes

Type of Credential Recognized: AMS, MACTE

Additional Requirements:

Pathway to licensure is through Chaminade University. Montessori credits from other MACTE accredited programs transfer but candidate must complete other required course work and/or transfer other credits to complete the degree to obtain a state license.

Restrictions: This pathway to licensure allows individuals to teach in Montessori schools only 

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: Minimum Requirements; High School Diploma with 2 years of child-care experience and required ECE trainings.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Hawaii career lattice only makes explicit mention of a Montessori Associate Credential which places one at 3.2 on the lattice.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

High School Diploma with 2 years of child-care experience and required ECE trainings.

Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state.

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: College credits in ECE or a related field are required to advance to higher levels.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Association of Illinois Montessori Schools

Contact(s)

  • Denise Monnier: denise@montessoriadvocacy.org
  • :

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: An AMI or AMS Montessori credential provides a pathway to lead teacher status.

Requirements: 19 years of age and completion of a training program accredited by AMS or AMI may be substituted for the courses directly related to child-care and/or child development required by this Section. Persons holding a Montessori pre-primary credential may supervise children through age six. Persons holding a Montessori primary or elementary credential may supervise children six years of age or older.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: An AMS Montessori credential is placed at a level 2, equivalent to CDA plus 6 credit hours in ECE.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

United Montessori Schools of Indiana

Contact(s)

  • Vyju Kadambi: vyju@montessoriadvocacy.org
  • Jessica Davis: assistanthos@montessori.k12.in.us

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

Yes

Type of Credential Recognized: From a MACTE Accredited Institution

Additional Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Restrictions: None, teachers seeking licensure are granted licenses and fully able to also teach in non-Montessori settings.

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: 18 years of age with required trainings in CPR, Child Abuse Detection/Prevention and Safe Sleeping Practices.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: A Montessori Certificate is recognized as an "equivalent credential" at the same level of a CDA, which places one at a level 3 of 7. A bachelor's degree in any field with at least 15 credit hours in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or Elementary Education places one at level 5.

Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state.

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: College credits in ECE or a related field are required to advance to higher levels.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state.

Contact(s)

  • Miranda Stegman: mrs.stegman2wms@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: 18 years of age and a high school diploma/G.E.D

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: Kansas does not currently have a career lattice.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Kentucky Montessori Alliance

Contact(s)

  • Jana Morgan Herman: jana@kmsky.org
  • Tony Guagliardo: montesri@iglou.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Kentucky career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential. College credits in ECE or a related field are required to advance to higher levels. Scroll to last page of career lattice link to see lattice.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Louisiana Montessori Association

Contact(s)

  • Catherine Sargusa: catherine.saragusa@tangischools.org

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: No specific mention of the Montessori credential

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements minimal

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Louisiana career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential. College credits in ECE or a related field are required to advance to higher levels.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Maine Montessori Association

Contact(s)

  • Sue Beemer: suebeemer@cornerspringmontessori.com
  • Casey Beaudoin: cassandrabeaudoin77@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: 21 years of age and at least an associate's degree in early childhood education.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Maine career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential. College credits in ECE or a related field are required to advance to higher levels.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Montessori Schools of Maryland

Contact(s)

  • Kavitha Mehta: kmehta@northcrestmontessori.com
  • Nancy Anselm: nancypanselm@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

Yes

Type of Credential Recognized: Individuals with a bachelor's degree in any field and a Montessori credential issued by AMI, AMS, or a MACTE accredited institution are eliglble for a teaching license upon passing PRAXIS exams.

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: 19 years of age, high school diploma/GED or courses for credit from an accredited college or university, 400 hours of experience and required child development trainings.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential with 2 years of experience is recognized at level 4 of 6 on the Maryland career lattice. Level 4 is equivalent to a CDA or 135 clock hours.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently has a verification program. Contact your state group for more information.

Montessori Schools of Massachusetts

Contact(s)

  • Martha Torrence: mtorrence@summitmontessori.org
  • Laurel Zolfonoon: lzolfonoon@concordmontessorischool.org

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: A Montessori credential qualifies for Early Childhood Professional Qualifications Certification which qualifies for lead teacher status.

Requirements: A Montessori Certificate can be substituted for certain educational requirements. You must also show an official transcript for completion of Child Growth and Development and letter from the program detailing your certificate completion date. The Montessori certificate must be from a recognized program affiliated with the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Evaluation (MACTE). A Montessori Early Childhood credential requires a total of 1,250 hours (33 credit hours) with a nine months supervised internship/student teaching experience in a Montessori early childhood classroom.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Michigan Montessori Education Advocacy Network

Contact(s)

  • Susie Hyatt: hyattsc@comcast.net
  • Mona Ahuja: mrsahujammc@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: An AMI or AMS Montessori credential or a Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited institution provides a pathway to lead teacher status.

Requirements: 19 years of age, high school diploma/GED and Montessori credential from an AMS, AMI or  any Montessori teaching training institution recognized by MACTE that meets or exceeds 270 hours of academic training with 480 hours of experience.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential is recognized at level P1 of P5 on the Michigan career lattice. The P1 level is equivalent to a CDA, 12 semester (18 term) credit hours in early childhood education/child development or child related field, valid Michigan School Age Youth Development Credential, or a valid Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health Infant Family Associate Credential. P1 professionals are qualified for the following positions: Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) Associate Teacher, Head Start Assistant Teacher, Early Head Start Lead Teacher, Lead Teacher in Child Care Center, Trainer

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Minnesota Montessori Network

Contact(s)

  • Peggy McKenna: pmckenna@lakecountryschool.org
  • Shawna Maryanovich: maryanovich@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

Yes

Type of Credential Recognized: From a MACTE Accredited Institution

Additional Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree. **Note: this combination qualifies for a three year temporary certificate. Rule-making is under way to extend this to a full certificate.

Restrictions: This pathway to licensure allows individuals to teach in Montessori schools only

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: An AMI or AMS Montessori credential provides a pathway to lead teacher status.

Requirements: One of the following Montessori credentials: AMI, AMS preprimary, AMS primary, or AMS provisional certificate; If credential holder does not have a bachelors degree additional requirements include 2,080 hours as assistant teacher, aide, or student intern and 12 quarter credits. If credential holder has a bachelors degree, additional requirements include 1,040 hours as assistant teacher, aide, or student intern.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Type of Credential Recognized: Primary from AMI or AMS

Additional Information: A primary diploma from Association Montessori Internationale or a provisional certificate from the American Montessori Society is recognized at level 7 of 12 on the Minnesota career lattice. This level is equivalent to Certificate in CD or ECE from an accredited college, or 16 approved credits.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Mississippi Montessori Alliance

Contact(s)

  • Karyn Jankowski: karynjankowski@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: 18 years of age, have a high school diploma/GED or CDA/ MDHS DECCD Child Care Director’s Credential/ MDHS OCY Director’s Child Care Credential or 3 years prior documented experience caring for children who are under 13 years of age and who are not related to the caregiver.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential is recognized as a career pathway on the Mississippi Teacher Credential Pathways document. It is listed as an "early childhood training program".

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact(s)

  • Carla Alexander: tilliescorner@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Missouri career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact(s)

  • Marissa SherKenney: marissa@bozemanmontessori.com
  • Mary Ellen Maunz:  maryellenmaunz@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

Yes

Type of Credential Recognized: From a MACTE Accredited Institution

Additional Requirements:

A credential from a MACTE-accredited institution qualifies for a full teaching certificate with no restrictions.

Restrictions: None

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: A Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited insititution provides a pathway to lead teacher status via the workforce registry.

Requirements: A Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited insititution provides a pathway to lead teacher status via the workforce registry.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential from a MACTE program is recognized at level 3 of 10 on the Montana career lattice. This level is equivalent to a CDA, Current National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) accreditation and 120 hours of approved training in the past 5 years, 12 semester college credits in Early Childhood Education/Child Development. This level also requires Minimum of 1000 hours working in an Early Childhood setting, First Aid and CPR Certification and an annual training required for renewal: 16 hours of approved training.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Nebraska Montessori Network

Contact(s)

  • Kathie Sweet: sweetka@unk.edu

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: 18 years of age, a high school diploma or GED; 1500 verified clock hours of experience in organized group activities for young children or acquire at least 3 credit hours or 45 clock hours of training in administration, early childhood education, education, or child/youth development, in a period not to exceed six months.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Montessori Nevada

Contact(s)

  • Mary Levy: mary@mountainviewmontessori.com
  • Aja Debruyn: aja@mhmlv.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Nevada career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

New Hampshire Montessori Association

Contact(s)

  • Laura Mammarelli: nhmontessori2007@gmail.com
  • Juliet Fleischer: julietfleischer55@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: A Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited institution provides a pathway to lead teacher status.

Requirements: 18 years of age, high school diploma/G.E.D, have a minimum of 1000 hours experience working with children in a licensed child-care program, and a credential from a teacher preparation program accredited by MACTE.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Adequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential from a MACTE program is recognized at level 4 without a degree, 5 with an Associates degree, or level 6 with a Bachelors degree out of 6 levels on the New Hampshire career lattice. Level 4 is equivalent to a High School Diploma or GED, 1000 hours of work experience, and a minimum of 18 post-secondary credits in approved coursework. Level 5 is equivalent to an Associate degree in ECE OR an Associate degree including a minimum of 18 post-secondary credits in approved coursework with 1,000 hours OR 200 supervised practicum hours within an approved college program. Level 6 is equivalent to a Baccalaureate degree in ECE OR a Baccalaureate degree including a minimum of 24 post-secondary credits in approved coursework.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

New Jersey Montessori Association Corporation

Contact(s)

  • Saloni Mathur: salonipcs@hotmail.com
  • :

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: Montessori credential provides pathway to lead teacher status.

Requirements: Montessori education equivalent to a Bachelor’s Degree and 2 years of experience.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Adequately Recognized

Additional Information: "The Montessori ECE credential from a MACTE program is recognized at the credential level on the New Jersey career lattice. If you hold a Bachelor's degree with the Montessori ECE credential, the New Jersey career lattice recognizes it at a Bachelor’s Degreed¹ Plus License/Endorsement Related to Early Childhood Professional level. "

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Montessori Network of New Mexico

Contact(s)

  • :
  • :

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: A Montessori credential provides pathway to center director status. There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential for lead teacher status but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: For center director: 21 years old and Montessori Teacher Certification with 2 years experience in an early childhood growth and development setting. Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The New Mexico career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

New York State Montessori Alliance

Contact(s)

  • Diane Lanci: owmontessori@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The New York ECE Career Lattice considers the following Montessori credentials as EC credentials: *American Montessori Society, Infant/Toddler Credential *American Montessori Society, Early Childhood Credential *Association Montessori International Certification The Montessori ECE credential with 5 years of experience is recognized at level 2c, which is the educational equivalent to High School Diploma. Level 5B is equivalent to an Associate's degree in ECE with 3 years of experience and a Montessori credential. Level 5C is equivalent to an Associate's degree in ECE with 5 years of experience and a Montessori credential.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Montessori Association of North Carolina

Contact(s)

  • Bobbe Spink: bobbe_spink@yahoo.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state.

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: "The North Dakota ECE career lattice recognizes the Montessori credential at stage D. This level is equivalent to 1-year Early Childhood Certificate from a vocational or technical school or 3 semester credit college course directly applicable to Category D Core Competency Areas. Category D professionals are qualified for the following positions: Family or Group Child Care (Bright & Early ND Step 3), Center Assistant Teacher (Bright & Early ND), Montessori Teacher or School age Program Group Leader"

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact(s)

  • Mary Beth McCormack: mccormackmarybeth@gmail.com
  • Heather Gerker: heathergerker@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

Yes

Type of Credential Recognized: AMI, AMS, or from a MACTE Accredited Institution

Additional Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree. **Note: This combination qualifies for a four-year provisional certificate, during which time additional requirements must be met.

Restrictions: This pathway to licensure allows individuals to teach in Montessori schools only 

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: 18 years of age and high school diploma or high school senior and also enrolled in a college credit program in child development.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Adequately Recognized

Type of Credential Recognized: American Montessori Society (AMS) Early Childhood Credential; Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential is recognized at level 1 (without a degree) on the Ohio career lattice.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact(s)

  • Kathy Carey: edmontessorilife@aol.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: High school diploma/GED, or Licensing approved equivalent

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Oklahoma career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Oregon Montessori Association

Contact(s)

  • Francesca Lowes: ed@oregonmontessori.org

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: An AMI Montessori credential or credential from a MACTE accredited institution provides a pathway to lead teacher status via the workforce registry.

Requirements: 18 years of age and documentation of attaining at least step 8.5 in the Oregon Registry. Montessori Credentials are recognized in the Oregon Registry as follows: AMI training centers (for Step 8.5), Montessori Northwest (for Step 8.5), and MACTE accredited programs (for Step 8.5). A Montessori credential from any one of the listed accredited programs qualifies as meeting the requirement for head teacher status.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential from an AMI, Montessori Northwest, or MACTE accredited program is recognized at step 8.5 on the Oregon Registry. Level 8.5 is equivalent to 40 quarter credits from a Community College.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Pennsylvania Montessori Alliance

Contact(s)

  • Marie Conti: pennsylvaniaMontessori@gmail.com
  • Diane Force: PennsylvaniaMontessori@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: A high school diploma/GED and 2 years experience with children.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential is recognized at a level 3 or 4 on the Pennsylvannia career lattice*. *Specialized Certificates or Diplomas in Early Childhood Education or Child Development, which range from nine to thirty-six credits. These may fall on Level III or Level IV depending on the number of credits. Certificates or diplomas that contain twelve or more college credits will be placed on Level IV. Level 3 is equivalent to a CDA.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state.

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: A bachelor's degree in education or CDA or Master Certification from the Department of Education.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state.

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: High school diploma/GED and 3 years of supervised experience in a licensed/ approved early childhood program or certified family day care home; and a history of regular participation in an ongoing early childhood staff development program.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Rhode Island career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

SC Montessori Alliance

Contact(s)

  • Barbara Ervin: barbaraervin@scmontessori.org
  • Amy Hunter: conference@scmontessori.org

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

Yes

Type of Credential Recognized: From a MACTE Accredited Institution

Additional Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.Pass the Praxis II

Restrictions: This pathway to licensure allows individuals to teach in Montessori schools only

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: 18 years and a high school diploma/GED and at least 6 months’ experience as a teacher/caregiver in a licensed or approved child care facility.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact(s)

  • Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state. :

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential is possibly recognized at a level 3 on the South Dakota career lattice* *CDA, SD OST Credential, or other similar credential which includes a minimum of 120 hours of training; or a vocational certificate with early childhood or youth development emphasis.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state.

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: 18 years of age and a high school diploma/GED

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state.

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: 18 years of age and a high school diploma/GED

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Montessori Alliance of Tennessee

Contact(s)

  • Jaime Yeager: info@matenn.org

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently has a verification program. Contact your state group for more information.

Texas Education and Advocacy for Montessori

Contact(s)

  • Jai Brisbon: jai.brisbon@texas-montessori.org

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: 18 years old and a high school diploma or equivalent.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Texas career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential. College credit is required to move to the intermediate and advanced levels.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state.

Contact(s)

  • Nancy Lindeman: nolindeman@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Utah career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state.

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential.

Requirements: 20 years of age and at least a Vermont Early Childhood Career Ladder Level Four (4) A or B Certificate

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The Vermont career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Virginia Montessori Association

Contact(s)

  • Corey Borgman: cmb2ng@virginia.edu
  • Shanna Honan: Shanna@chesapeakemontessorischool.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

Yes

Type of Credential Recognized: Individuals with a bachelor's in any field plus a credential issued by AMI, AMS or a MACTE accredited institution , who pass required state exams and who have completed a course satisfying the VA Literacy Act are eligible for a license. Currently applies only to Arlington Publid School district.

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: A Montessori credential provides a pathway to lead teacher status.

Requirements: 18 years of age, 3 months experience and a teaching diploma from an internationally or nationally recognized Montessori organization.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Virginia career lattice may recognize the Montessori credential at a level 3 as a "State or nationally recognized child-related training certificate (120 clock hours or more)"

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Pacific Northwest Montessori Association

Contact(s)

  • Hilary Prentice: hilary@sammamishmontessori.com
  • Gracie Martinez: gracie.martinez@threetree.org

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: An AMI Montessori credential or credential from a MACTE accredited institution provides a pathway to lead teacher status via the workforce registry.

Requirements: 18 years of age, have an ECE initial certificate or equivalent as approved and verified in the electronic workforce registry. WA workforce registry recognizes the Montessori credential at a Level 2, step 7 which is a pathway to a statewide credential.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Adequately Recognized

Additional Information: The career lattice for early learning professionals has steps 1 - 15 with 15 representing the highest level of professional development. The Montessori credential is represented on the career lattice at levels 7, 9 (with an associate's degree), 12 (with a bachelor's degree) and 15 (with a master's degree). The Montessori credential at level 7 is equivalent to the CSEFEL Training or State Credential in ECE (47 credits). The Montessori credential at level 9 is equivalent to ECE or related Associate degree with 30 or more approved ECE or school-age college credits or Apprentice Journey Level Associate II. The Montessori credential at level 12 is equivalent to ECE or related Bachelor’s degree with 30 or more approved ECE or school-age college credits. The Montessori credential at level 15 is equivalent to Master’s or higher degree in any field with 30 or more approved ECE or school-age college credits at any level of coursework. Professionals represented at level 7 are qualified for the following roles: Head Start Teacher AssistantECEAP Assistant TeacherCCC DirectorCCC Program SupervisorMontessori IT (A to I) or ECE (Primary) Teacher. Professionals represented at level 9 are qualified for the following roles: ECEAP Lead Teacher, ECEAP Family Support Specialist, Head Start Lead Teacher (alternative pathway), Apprentice Trainer, Montessori IT (A to I) or ECE (Primary) Teacher. Professionals represented at level 12 are qualified for the following roles: Head Start Teacher, Head Start/ECEAP Education, Coordinators, CC Licensor, Intermediate Trainer, Montessori IT (A to I) or ECE (Primary) Teacher. Professionals represented at level 15 are qualified for the following roles: ECE College Instructor/Professor, Advanced Trainer, Montessori IT (A to I) or ECE (Primary) Teacher.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently has a verification program. Contact your state group for more information.

Montessori Alliance of West Virginia

Contact(s)

  • Spencer Martel: info.mawv@gmail.com

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: Lead teacher requirements are minimal.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Not Recognized

Additional Information: The West Virginia career lattice does not specifically recognize the Montessori credential.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Wisconsin Montessori Association

Contact(s)

  • Katie Loss: lossca@milwaukee.k12.wi.us

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

Yes

Type of Credential Recognized: AMI or from a MACTE Accredited Institution

Additional Requirements:

  • Basic Skills Test: Praxis CORE, ACT, SAT, or GRE
  • Content Area Test: Praxis II
  • edTPA score report
  • Score report for the Wisconsin Foundations of Reading Test

Restrictions: This pathway to licensure allows individuals to teach in Montessori schools only

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: There is no specific mention of the Montessori credential but there are minimal requirements for lead teacher status.

Requirements: 18 years and required child development trainings.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Wisconsin career lattice recognizes a Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program at level 6 out of 17. This level is equivalent to a CDA. However, an unrelated bachelor's degree is recognized at a level 12.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.

Contact MPPI to inquire about starting an advocacy group in your state.

Montessori Credential Recognition Information

There are several contexts in which an individual’s Montessori credential may or may not be adequately recognized: for state teacher licensure, under child-care regulations, and in workforce registries and career ladders. You can find information regarding Montessori credential recognition in your state below.

Pathway to State Teacher Licensure:

No

Pathway to Child-Care Licensing Lead Teacher Status

Type of Credential Recognized: A Montessori credential provides pathway to lead teacher status via the workforce registry.

Requirements: 19 years old; high school diploma/GED or 6 months documented prior work experience in day care or 5 clock hours of day care training or a professional credential from a nationally-recognized organization. Wyoming workforce registry recognizes the Montessori credential at a level 4.

Career Lattice/Workforce Registry

Generally, MPPI recommends that individuals with a bachelor’s degree and an AMI or AMS credential or Montessori credential from a MACTE accredited program be recognized at the same level as an individual with a bachelor’s in ECE. Therefore, career lattices that recognize a Montessori credential lower than that are designated as inadequately recognized.

Recognized: Inadequately Recognized

Additional Information: The Montessori ECE credential is recognized at level 4 of 8 on the Wyoming career lattice. The Montessori credential is equivalent to an associates degree in any field. Level 4 professionals are qualified for ECE Intermediate positions.

Verification Program in Place? What is Verification?

This state currently does not have a verification program. Contact MPPI if you’d like to explore starting one.