Essentials are the minimum standards for accrediting educational programs through the IMAC agency. The extent to which a program complies with these standards determines its accreditation status. The Essentials therefore include all requirements for which an accredited program is held accountable. Essentials are supplemented by Criteria and Guidelines by IMAC review committees. In the Orientation Guide of the Generic Review Committee, Appendix A, there is given the complete details of IMAC Essentials and Criteria. (PDF download).Â
Description of a Montessori TeacherÂ
A Montessori teacher is one whose being with children effectively supports and nurtures the children’s normal growth and development. Such normality of growth and development is based on the observations and discoveries of Dr. Maria Montessori as reported in her various pertinent writings and publications since 1907. Montessori teaching broadly reflects an adult function of observing children with freedom in a prepared environment.
Criteria might include:
Qualities of a Normal Child:Â
Precociously intelligent
Eager for Knowledge
Spontaneous self-discipline
Profound concentrationÂ
Social Sentiments of help and sympathy for others
Instinct towards Independence
Joy in goal-directed activityÂ
Continuous and happy workÂ
Attachment to Reality Prudence
Qualities of a Montessori Teacher:Â
Skilled in ObservationÂ
PatienceÂ
HumilityÂ
CalmnessÂ
Faith in Normality
Well-acquainted with self-educational didactic materialÂ
ImaginationÂ
Power of Silence
  The Essentials are set out with the following categories:
I. Sponsorship
II. Resources
III. Curriculum
IV. Students
V. Operating Policies
VI. Program Evaluation