MISSION STATEMENT At Virgin Islands Montessori School & International Academy, we are committed to the total development of each student by providing an Education For Life – strong Montessori principles, the richness of our diverse Virgin Islands culture and upholding global college preparatory standards. PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT - VIMSIA The concept of education at VIMSIA allows the children to experience the joy of learning at an early age, while preserving the spontaneity, initiative and curiosity inherent in students. We provide an environment that guides the individual progress of students to achieve their fullest potential intellectually, socially, emotionally and physically with special focus on nurturing the human spirit. PURPOSE AND AIM - VIMSIA From Toddler through Upper Elementary, VIMS is dedicated to the Association Montessori Internationale’s (AMI) Montessori philosophy and method of education. Our International Academy is student-centered and built upon a strong International Baccalaureate pedagogy. VIMSIA is an active viable institution set upon a solid foundation of excellence in faculty, administration and facilities. Our purpose is to provide the fullest development and highest standard of learning possible in each individual student. Nondenominational and nondiscriminatory, our school welcomes students from all backgrounds. ACCREDITATION Virgin Islands Montessori School (VIMS) is accredited by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) for the Primary - Upper Elementary levels. Dr. Maria Montessori founded AMI in 1929. The organization is directed by an international board, and is supported by distinguished scholars and statesmen throughout the world. AMI/USA was founded to conduct the business of AMI in the United States. The yearly dues we pay go to the United States Office in Rochester, New York. A portion is sent to the International headquarters in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. AMI strictly regulates the standards to be met by member schools and teachers through their consultation program. They offer and run teacher-training programs, and organize national and international workshops and conferences. A team of specially trained consultants visits each school at least every three years. AMI is the reliable authority on authentic Montessori theory and practice, and since its inception, has been the coordinating agency of growth and development in Montessori. For more information about AMI, go to their website: www.montessori-ami.org VIMSIA Toddler and After School Enrichment Program are accredited by the VI Department of Human Services. VIMSIA is proud to be accredited for PK – 12thgrade by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.  VIMSIA is authorized as an International Baccalaureate World School.