Journey to The Montessori Event 2023 – Marcy Bourdo

North Texas Montessori Institute Instructor, Marcy Bourdo, shares more about her journey to The Montessori Event 2023 and her topic, Managing the Paradoxes of a Montessori Classroom, which she presented at the conference in March.

Your topic is focused on the personal experiences of a Montessori educator, what was your inspiration for choosing this topic?

As the Education Coordinator at Starwood Academy of Frisco, I have the benefit of observing classrooms at all developmental levels.  One common observation made of successful guides at any level is the ability to be adaptive with conflicting aspects (like freedom and discipline) to support individual student needs. My research on this management of paradox in a Montessori classroom led me to discover the concept of a paradox mindset.

How has your experience as an instructor informed your presentation?

In supporting Adult Learners, I wanted to share what research says about a paradox mindset leading to individuals reporting greater joy and satisfaction in their work. It was exciting to see that research supported what I observed Montessori guides often developed (a paradox mindset) unintentionally through their work in managing a classroom. 

If people take away only one thing from your presentation, what would you want it to be?

I hope people take away that, just like a growth mindset, a paradox mindset can be learned and developed.

What are you looking forward to most about presenting at The Montessori Event?

I am looking forward to connecting with fellow colleagues and educators.

How do conferences like The Montessori Event support your personal growth and professional development?

The energy that exists from thousands of Montessorians coming together with a shared purpose to make a difference is inspirational.  This energy is something we can bring back and extend to our own community.