I recently came across an Education Week article titled “Are Today’s Students Less Independent? Depends on Who You Ask,” and it made me reflect on how we foster independence at Andover School of Montessori. Although the article notes that research on changing levels of student independence isn’t yet conclusive, it raises a crucial point: helping children develop independence is more important than ever.
Guiding students to become independent learners is a core Montessori principle and one of our highest priorities. At ASM, students help create their work plans in collaboration with their teachers, giving them structured goals along with the freedom to decide how they’ll accomplish those tasks. This is often referred to as freedom within limits. By doing so, students develop key skills in self-direction and self-motivation, while building a strong sense of ownership and responsibility over their learning. When students can choose and explore at a pace that aligns with their individual needs, they strengthen their decision-making abilities and gain a deeper sense of agency. Uninterrupted work cycles further nurture independent thought and self-regulation, as students immerse themselves in tasks without constant adult direction. As they grow older, children take on more complex projects, such as the science fair, guided by clear timelines and checkpoints, an experience that is very similar to real-world responsibilities and equips them with vital skills for the future.
By consistently practicing these skills, children gain confidence in their ability to plan, execute, and reflect on their work, a true hallmark of independence. While broader research continues to explore how and why student independence may be changing, our commitment at ASM remains the same: to empower each child to develop the self-reliance, curiosity, and initiative they need to thrive both in school and throughout life. As the author of the article states, “Whether real or perceived, encouraging independence in students and helping them develop the skills to direct their own learning and advocate for themselves are all important to their success in school and life.” At Andover School of Montessori, we live this every day.
