Lindsey Pollock is proposing a dissertation to examine Montessori principals' perceptions of science instruction in Texas schools. The number of public Montessori schools is growing in Texas, requiring them to align with state standards while maintaining the Montessori methodology. The study will survey principals of both private and public Montessori schools to compare their perceptions of science instruction, determine if they support hands-on practices, and identify trends. Surveys will be distributed to all eligible principals in Texas.

1. Lindsey Pollock
Lamar University
Dissertation Forum
May 4, 2012

2. Dissertation Proposal
Instructional Leadership:
Montessori Principals’
Perceptions of Science
Instruction in Texas Schools

3. Background of the Problem
 Public Montessori schools are increasing in number
nationally and in the State of Texas.
 In the State of Texas there are 14 public and 70 private
Montessori elementary schools. Of the 14 public
Montessori schools, 6 of those campuses have nearly
doubled in student enrollment in the past 3 years. As
public Montessori schools increase in size and
number, implementation of academic goals and
objectives much be aligned to the TEKS and maintain
fidelity to the Montessori methodology. Montessori
educators turn to established private Montessori schools
for guidance.

4. Purpose of the Study
 The purpose of this study is the comparison
of private and public Montessori principals’
perceptions of science instruction in
elementary (grades 1 – 6) classroom
settings.

5. Research Questions
 How do principals’ perceptions of science instruction in
public vs private Montessori schools compare?
 Do principals support hands-on science practices?
 What trends are present in the perceptions of Montessori
principals’ as instructional leaders in the area of science
instruction?

6. Proposed Methodology
Surveys will be distributed to all principals in
private and public Texas schools offering
Montessori education in grades 1 – 6
Survey instrument is used by permission from
Dr. Martha Nabors, University of South
Carolina