Although the Montessori method has been known and practiced for almost a century in Europe and Asia, only recently has it gained recognition in American public schools. The key to the Montessori method's success is teachers specially trained to translate child development principles into classroom design, instructional strategies, and…

Most large schools have many types of programs serving many types of students, but smaller schools, serving fewer students, may be able to have a more defined "personality," or focus. Focus schools are becoming more popular because their students tend to be high achievers and because many districts are allowing families to choose the schools they…