(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – Feb. 20, 2026) — In classrooms filled with carefully arranged materials and quiet concentration, some of El Paso ISD’s youngest learners are discovering something powerful: independence.
As Montessori Education Week approaches (Feb. 23–27), EPISD is celebrating two thriving Montessori campuses, Dr. Green Montessori and Moreno Montessori, where children as young as three are building confidence, leadership skills, and a lifelong love of learning.
While both Montessori schools are located within existing elementary campuses, each operates as its own distinct educational community, grounded in the Montessori philosophy and guided by specially trained educators.
“Education is not something we give to children. It's what we awaken in them, in a manner that inspires curiosity, joy and lifelong learning,” said Isabel Justo, Principal of Dr. Green Montessori. “Our students learn to take ownership of their learning, to respect their environment, and to see themselves as capable individuals from a very early age.”
At the heart of Montessori education is the multi-age classroom. It’s a setting where students span three years in age and learn alongside one another. In EPISD Montessori classrooms, enrollment is capped at 22 students with two adults, allowing for both individualized attention and collaborative growth.
In these environments, older students naturally step into leadership roles, while younger students gain confidence by observing and learning from their peers.
“Montessori is built on the belief that every child has unique strengths and gifts,” said Cecilia Perez, Principal of Moreno Montessori. “Our role is to observe, guide, and prepare an environment where those strengths can flourish at each child’s own pace.”
Unlike traditional classrooms, Montessori students are given extended blocks of uninterrupted work time. Teachers, known as guides, carefully observe and introduce materials when a child is ready for the next challenge, ensuring growth without pressure.
The approach supports a wide range of learners, including gifted students, English learners, and students receiving special education services. Because children progress at their own pace, they are able to deepen understanding, revisit concepts when needed, and build mastery without the fear of “falling behind.”
Montessori guides in EPISD are highly trained professionals who hold both Texas teaching certification and Montessori certification, a credential that can take up to two years and includes specialized coursework and internships.
The philosophy extends beyond academics.
Students learn responsibility by caring for their classroom environment. They practice conflict resolution through discussion and restorative approaches. They develop intrinsic motivation and learning not for a grade, but for the joy of mastery.
The result is a learning environment that emphasizes independence, confidence, global awareness, and respect.
For both campuses, Montessori Education Week is an opportunity to reflect on the impact of that philosophy.
“This is about nurturing capable, compassionate, and curious learners,” Justo said. “When you see a three-year-old independently choosing meaningful work and completing it with focus and pride, you understand that this model empowers children in a very special way.”
To learn more about the Montessori programs at El Paso ISD and to schedule a tour with the principals, click here.