AMI Talks – How Montessori History Fuels Today’s Innovations in Education
On Monday, 6 January 2025 Sarah Kiteleja and Dr John Exalto presented our AMI Talk on How Montessori History Fuels Today’s Innovations in Education: Why established educational systems should be open to innovation and change; and how we can secure our place at the table.
We are grateful to be able to present two strong speakers from our network: Dr John Exalto, assistant professor in theory and history of education, and Sarah Kiteleja, Executive Director of the Montessori Community of Tanzania. Inspired by the vision of Maria Montessori that education is the best instrument for change in society, they explore the need for innovation and reform in educational systems, sharing insights from practice and academia.
Presenters
John Exalto: Progressive Education and the Grammar of Schooling: Some Historical Observations
Maria Montessori was one of the pioneers of the progressive education movement at the beginning of the 20th century. Just as she faced significant challenges in reforming existing educational systems during her time, similar obstacles remain today. These obstacles arise not only from governments, established educational institutions, and leading professionals in the field but also from educators themselves. In his presentation, John will explore the concept of the grammar of school - the inherent resistance of established educational systems to innovation and change. Drawing on several historical examples from Montessori’s era, inspired in part by her method, John will illustrate how every generation and educational context requires its own visionaries and advocates to drive progress.
John Exalto works as an assistant professor in theory and history of education at the University of Groningen. His research focuses on the intersections of identity, religion, and education, with a special interest in the historical dimensions of progressive education from Comenius to Montessori. He is also the curator of the ADNG Heritage Center for the Dutch Behavioural Sciences at the University of Groningen.
Sarah Kiteleja: Advocacy in Action: Fostering Montessori in Tanzania
Sarah Kiteleja has been committed to driving societal transformation through non-profit organisations for over a decade. As the Executive Director of the Montessori Community of Tanzania, she advocates for equitable access to quality Early Childhood Care and Education, fostering environments that empower children for holistic development. Her leadership, project management, and community outreach expertise have helped propel the organisation's growth and impact.
Sarah holds a master’s degree in Policy and Practice for Civil Society from Bradford University, UK, an AMI 3–6 assistant certificate and an Executive Diploma in Leadership from Aalto University, Finland.
She has held pivotal roles with organisations like the Mwanza Women Development Association and the Children’s Book Organization, where she advocated for education, gender equality, and child rights. Collaborating with government bodies, local organizations, and international partners, Sarah's innovative approach continues to impact Tanzania's education landscape positively.
