Text mmsroots to 41444

Roots and wings

Day by day at MMS, children are building a strong foundation for a lifetime of learning and developing the skills to take it as far and as high as their curiosity will take them!

By their side, step by step, are our dedicated Montessori guides and staff, who prepare their environments, create the learning opportunities, and share the joy that inspire the best in each child.

Your donation to the MMS Annual Appeal helps fund Montessori credential training and professional development programs that empower our remarkable professionals and advance our mission to bring the highest quality Montessori education to your child's classrooms.

When you support teachers, you are helping plant the seeds for bright future for our students and the future they will inherit.

Today, we are proud to introduce one of our incredible educators as part of the campaign and share her wonderful Montessori story... meet Tara Fought!



Tara Fought, MMS Reading and Learning Specialist

How did you become part of Montessori and the MMS community?

Quite accidentally! The summer after graduating from Florida International University with a degree in elementary education, I was hired to lead a summer camp that turned out to be part of a new Montessori school opening that fall. What began as a three-week position grew into a15-year career as a Lower Elementary guide.



In 2015, while planning a move to the Charleston area, my mother-in-law — a friend of former MMS staff member, Nancy Johnston — learned of an opening at the school. I arranged a visit with Jennifer during my spring break, and the rest is history!  

What hats have you worn at MMS over the years?

I've had many roles, including:



• Lower Elementary guide - eight years
• Reading and Learning Specialist for Elementary, and now Middle School - three years and counting
• Administer reading and now math screenings three times a year for Elementary students
• Proctor standardized testing 
• A member of the MMS Advisory Committee - three years and counting
• Lower Elementary mentor
• Supported the start-up of LE 3
• Stage director for the winter and spring concerts
• Organize the third year overnights
• Created MMS After Hours and Jump Team enrichment programs
• Trained in peer support for staff members 
• Participate in arrival/dismissal 



Favorite memories/Montessori moments?

When I was a classroom guide, it was easy to become immersed in the daily life of my own class. Since transitioning to the role of Reading and Learning Specialist, I’ve had the privilege of observing, supporting, and participating in all of our Elementary classrooms in some capacity. This broader perspective has allowed me to truly appreciate the unique qualities of each class. This, and watching our students grow and develop over the years, are my favorite Montessori moments here at MMS.

What are your hopes for our students?

I hope our students carry with them a lifelong love of learning, open minds, and kind hearts — ready to approach life with confidence, curiosity, and compassion.

Favorite Montessori quote?

“The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.” I believe this quote captures the essence of the Montessori philosophy making it a perfect match with this year’s theme, “Rooted in the Future."

Any other comments/thoughts/perspectives?

How fortunate I am to work in a school where both the staff and administration work together for the growth and success of our school, our children, and each other. 

You can help build strong roots and a bright future!



This year's Annual Appeal goal is $20,000 and we're more than half way there thanks to our incredible supporters!

In the spirit of community, we invite everyone to take part. No gift is too big or too small to make an impact. Every dollar makes a difference and monthly giving options offer convenience for all.

With your tax-deductible gift, you're not just giving money, you're empowering the next generation of community builders, problem solvers, innovators and peace makers.

At MMS, everything we do is made possible by our community and we are so grateful that you are an honored part of it.

On behalf of everyone at MMS, thank you for sharing our vision and inspiring the future!

Giving is as easy as texting mmsroots to 41444, clicking on the link below, or scanning the QR code with your phone.

And be sure to amplify your impact by sharing why you gave with your friends and fellow parents on social media by using #mmsroots.