SERVING AGES 3-15

WELCOME FROM OUR DIRECTOR

Abintra develops confident, self-motivated learners who creatively meet the challenges of life.


Sherry Knott

How we accomplish this vision is through a program designed for discovery; what many would call Eureka moments, bursts of awareness that make children want to repeat experiences and learn again. At Abintra, discovery leads to a daily joy of learning in our students-- the joy that comes from figuring out how to walk and talk; discovering how a new number results from adding or dividing; from seeing a vital plant spring from a seed that is given sun, soil and water; or—one of the most exciting discoveries—that a box of cut-out alphabets contains ALL the words in a dictionary!

At Abintra, the joy of learning that results from individual discovery continues through elementary and middle school. Abintra students don’t simply learn “what;” they learn “how.” As you look over our website, you will see students actively engaged in learning through discovery.  You will not see students sitting in chairs lined up row by row, staring at a lectern or chalkboard.  You will see students in comfortable positions, touching materials, analyzing, collaborating with teachers who guide the process of discovery that leads to learning and growth.

For your child it could be the revelation of the scientific principles that govern the universe; for another it is the thrill of leading the first classroom community meeting; for still another it is understanding the mysteries of cube roots and pi.

This active learning approach requires supportive guides. Abintra’s faculty is comprised of life-long learners who understand that continued self-examination is key to great teaching.  Our guides participate in many hours of professional development in addition to their classroom work and are committed to utilizing a collaborative faculty model.

This is an environment built on respect between adults and children that extends to our community and environment.  This respect is reflected in our diligent effort to preserve nature on our ten-acre campus, our commitment to service, our inclusion of children with all learning styles, and diversity that isn’t just a checklist of goals but the pursuit of understanding and appreciation of differences among those in our community.

Sincerely,

Sherry  Knott

Sherry Knott, Abintra's Executive Director since 1996, has served as parent, trustee, and guide since enrolling her two children at Abintra in 1991.  She graduated from Belmont University with a BA in English and Secondary Education.  She received her MEd in Educational Psychology from the University of Georgia and an EdS in Montessori Education from Barry University in Miami, Florida.  Sherry has worked in public schools and nonprofit development.  She has volunteered for the past sixteen years in local politics, the Tennessee Prison for Women, and on Northwest Davidson County environmental issues.  She is a member of the American Montessori Society.  She led Abintra in achieving SACS accreditation in 2007.  Sherry's son and daughter are both Abintra graduates.