Our History
1971
Sister Anthonita Porta, OP, a Dominican Sister who spent 18 years in education before becoming a Montessorian in 1969, establishes the Montessori Children’s House at St. Joseph Academy in Adrian, Michigan with Sister Leonor J. Esnard.
1991
The Adrian Dominican Montessori Teacher Education Institute (ADMTEI) is founded by Sister Anthonita as a nonprofit and begins its credential program for Montessori teachers. It is accredited through the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE).
1993
Sister Anthonita steps down as administrator of the Montessori Children’s House in order to concentrate on teacher education and to assist in setting up Montessori schools throughout the country and the world. Sister Anthonita works tirelessly as an advocate for children, the poor and the disadvantaged.
2002
Sister Anthonita is named a Living Legacy by the American Montessori Society.
2009
Sister Anthonita passes away unexpectedly and Sister Leonor Esnard assumes the Directorship of ADMTEI.
2011
The spirit and legacy of Sister Anthonita continue as ADMTEI celebrates 20 years of high-quality Montessori teacher education!
2015 - 2022
ADMTEI renews its accreditation through MACTE and remains accredited through 2028.
2021
The Adrian Dominican Montessori Teacher Education Institute celebrates 30 years of high-quality Montessori teacher education!
2022
Sister Leonor Esnard retires in July, and Debra Gorman Cagle becomes the new Executive Director of ADMTEI.
Get Involved
-
Apply to our Program
Become a Montessori-credentialed, early childhood educator in as little as ten months! Our Program features classes on the weekends, allowing you to do your practicum teaching during the week. Contact our office with any questions!
-
Attend a Workshop
We host professional development workshops throughout the year and an annual two day workshop for Montessori Assistants in August. We can also provide a made-to-order workshop at your facility.
-
Make A Donation
Perhaps the Montessori Movement has left an imprint on your heart and you want to see more adult learners choose the Montessori path. Perhaps you just want better educational opportunities for all young children. Your monetary support is vital and greatly appreciated!
Current Board of Directors
President – Sister Leonor Esnard
Financial Director – Ed Weber
Sharon Wimple – Secretary
Rev. Robert Dister – member at large
Maria Mueller - member at large
Ruma Duttagupta – member at large
Patience Williams – member at large