Since 1976, the Montessori Center for Teacher Education (MCTE) in San Diego has been dedicated to preparing passionate and skilled Montessori teachers. Our programs combine the authentic philosophy and principles of Dr. Maria Montessori with extensive hands-on practice, giving adult learners the knowledge and confidence to guide children with purpose and joy.
For nearly five decades, MCTE has supported generations of educators on their Montessori journey. Whether you are beginning your path or looking to advance your teaching practice, our experienced faculty and supportive community are here to nurture your growth and help you make a lasting impact in classrooms and communities around the world.
Our mission is to prepare and inspire Montessori educators who embody respect, curiosity, and a love of lifelong learning. Rooted in the authentic philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, our programs provide comprehensive teacher training that blends academic study, hands-on classroom experience, and guided reflection.
MCTE is dedicated to developing educators who nurture the full potential of every child, honor diversity, and carry the Montessori philosophy into communities worldwide.
We envision a world in which every child is guided by compassionate, knowledgeable, and inspired Montessori educators. Through excellence in teacher preparation, we aim to shape learning environments that promote independence, peace, and a deep respect for humanity and the natural world.
Our graduates are leaders and advocates who carry forward Dr. Montessori’s legacy, transforming education and strengthening communities for generations to come.
The Montessori Center for Teacher Education is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming community for all students, faculty, and staff. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, marital or family status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, or any other status protected by law.
The Montessori Method was developed more than a century ago by Dr. Maria Montessori, Italy’s first female physician. Through her careful observation of children, she discovered that when given freedom within a thoughtfully prepared environment, children naturally develop curiosity, independence, and a love of learning.
Dr. Montessori opened her first school, the Casa dei Bambini (“Children’s House”), in Rome in 1907. Her innovative approach quickly spread around the world and continues to inspire educators, parents, and learners today.
Now practiced in thousands of schools globally, the Montessori Method nurtures each child’s creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong curiosity—values that remain just as vital today as when Dr. Montessori first shared her discoveries.
