Welcome to Agia Sophia Academy!

Your Leading Montessori School

in Beaverton, Oregon

A Haven of Learning, Growth, and Personal Enrichment

At ASA, we recognize the vital role early education plays in shaping a child's future, and we are here to address this demand. Join us on a journey where education is synonymous with delight, inquisitiveness is celebrated, and each child's potential is wholeheartedly embraced.

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The demand for a nurturing and comprehensive educational experience for children is increasingly evident. As parents and guardians, we all share the desire to provide our young ones with the best opportunities for their growth and development. In an ever-changing world, the Montessori method emerges as a solution, offering a distinct pathway to promote independence, kindle a passion for learning, and honor the uniqueness of each child. 

What is Montessori?

Montessori, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s, is an educational method that has gained worldwide recognition, spanning six continents and experiencing significant popularity in the United States over the past half-century. It is grounded in the scientific observation of children's learning processes, emphasizing the teaching of abstract concepts through hands-on, sensory experiences.


The Montessori curriculum encompasses seven primary areas: practical life, sensorial, mathematics, language, science, history/geography, and art. These materials are thoughtfully arranged on accessible, low shelves, each subject area occupying a distinct part of the classroom. Each learning tool is meticulously designed to be manipulated by the child's hand and internalized by their mind, offering a kinesthetic approach that benefits all children.


Lessons in the Montessori method are typically presented individually or in small groups, maximizing each child's learning potential and catering to their unique readiness levels. This personalized approach not only enhances learning but also fosters a strong teacher-child relationship, creating an enriching educational experience.


Benefits of a Montessori Education

Choosing a Montessori education for your child can have a profound impact on their development.

Here are some of the key benefits:

Montessori geometrical color shapes arranged in a box

1. Independence and Responsibility

This education empowers children to become independent learners. They learn to make choices, solve problems, and take responsibility for their actions. This builds confidence and a strong sense of self.

2. Love for Learning

This method fosters a love for learning from an early age. Children are encouraged to explore their interests and passions, making learning a joyful and lifelong pursuit.

3. Individualized Learning

With a low student-to-teacher ratio and personalized attention, this education allows each child to progress at their own pace. Our tailored approach is designed to prevent any child from being left behind.

4. Critical Thinking

Our activities are specifically developed to encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Children learn to think independently and approach challenges with confidence.

5. Social and Emotional Development

The environment is rich in social interactions, allowing children to develop strong social and emotional skills. They learn to work collaboratively, resolve conflicts, and develop empathy.

6. Strong Academic Foundation

This education provides a solid academic foundation that goes beyond memorization. Children develop a deep understanding of concepts and a love for learning that serves them well throughout their academic journey.

7. Respect for Others and the Environment

This education instills values of respect for others and the environment. Children learn to care for their classroom, the materials, and each other, fostering a sense of responsibility and compassion.

What Sets Agia Sophia Academy Apart?

Two girls sit together while doing the phases of the moon activity.

Full & Half Day Options

You can select either our 4-hour half-day program or our 6-hour full-day program. We are a licensed childcare provider and can accept DHS Employer Related Day Care vouchers and Dependent Care FSAs.


Music

We believe that music is essential for a well-rounded education. Our students have music instruction three days a week, covering dance, theory, history, and practical application through writing and playing instruments. They learn through art songs, classical music, Orthodox music, and American Folk Songs.


Art

Art is a fundamental part of a complete education. It provides unique experiences, knowledge, and a distinctive way of knowing not found elsewhere. Art education allows students to be artistically creative, express themselves, and engage intellectually and spiritually. It also provides skills that transfer to other subjects and life situations. Our art program begins at the Kindergarten level, teaching students drawing fundamentals, including line, form, shape, space, value, color, and texture. They work with various media to stimulate their creativity. Art history is integrated into the program to build a better understanding of history.


Physical Education (PE)

In our PE program, students develop physical and spatial awareness through movement. They master locomotor and non-locomotor movement patterns and improve motor skills and physical fitness through manipulative skills and fitness activities. We follow National Standards for Physical Education and Dance, helping students build muscular strength, aerobic capacity, muscular endurance, and flexibility. They also learn about other cultures and enhance social skills through cooperative games, creative dance, and folk dances.


Greek Language

We recognize the advantages of early language acquisition and start teaching Modern Greek to ASA students at age 3 using the Total Physical Response language instruction principles. This approach teaches language naturally, using images, songs, actions, and manipulative objects. Greek culture and history are taught through traditional songs.


Faith & Clergy Visits

ASA students begin and end each day with a short prayer service. We have one Divine Liturgy a month and visits from local clergy and guests. Our Faith class supplements home and church attendance with instruction in the Gospels, the Nicene Creed, and Divine Liturgy.


Community & Special Events

We organize various activities for our students, such as Passport to ASA, Special Guest Day (e.g., Grandparents Day), Pizza Day with the Board, 100th Day, St. Nicholas Day, Safety Days, and in-house presentations. In the past, we hosted the annual Orthodox Youth Cultural Exchange, where children from various Orthodox churches shared their ethnic dances, songs, and more to celebrate Orthodox culture.


Diverse Community

We hold our diverse and inclusive community in high esteem. Our students come from various cultural backgrounds, and we celebrate this diversity. It provides a rich environment for your child to learn about different cultures, traditions, and perspectives, promoting empathy and cultural understanding.


Frequently Asked Questions

See some common questions and answers below, or call us at (503) 641-4600.

  • Do your teachers hold licenses?

    Certainly, all our teachers are not only licensed but also possess advanced degrees and education certifications.

  • Which subjects are included in your curriculum?

    Our commitment lies in delivering a comprehensive curriculum that nurtures the complete development of students, encompassing their minds, souls, hearts, and bodies. Our aim is for students not only to comprehend but also cherish the beauty that manifests in every subject.


    The subjects covered at ASA comprise mathematics, grammar, literature, writing, logic, history, geography, science, faith, Latin, Greek, art, music, and physical education.

  • Is there a uniform or dress code in place?

    Yes, we have a dress code that includes specific requirements for uniforms. Students are expected to wear burgundy polo shirts with navy slacks (for boys) and navy jumpers/skirts (for girls). 


    For more detailed information on our dress code policy, you can refer to our handbook. Additionally, we offer a uniform exchange cabinet where gently used uniform items are available.

  • What are the advantages of enrolling in a full-day program?

    We strongly recommend that parents enroll their children for either five half-days or five full days each week to ensure a consistent learning environment. Older students, in particular, benefit from attending full days, as it allows them to receive additional one-on-one support in the afternoon and participate in specialty classes like Greek and Music.


    It's worth noting that younger students who initially start with half-day programs may eventually express a desire to stay for the entire day during the year. This is a positive sign and doesn't indicate a lack of desire to be at home. Instead, it signifies that your child has acclimated to the learning environment and craves the educational benefits they receive.

  • Is it necessary for students to adhere to the Orthodox faith?

    No, it's not required. We extend a warm welcome and hold deep respect for students from any religious background, tradition, or even those with no religious affiliation at all. Our ongoing commitment to embodying the essence of the Orthodox Christian faith in all aspects of our work at ASA is reflected in our dedication to embracing and respecting all students, in harmony with God's love for them and as an expression of His directives.


    Please keep in mind that students will be expected to attend Orthodox Liturgy with respect, engage in the memorization of Scripture and prayers, and be exposed to the teachings of the Orthodox Christian faith, doctrines, and worldview, both directly and indirectly.


    Just as with students who are not in communion with the Orthodox Church, it's important to be aware that your child will not partake in Communion during school church services. Communion is a solemn and profound practice within the Orthodox Church, and it's not uncommon for Orthodox Christians to abstain from it if they haven't undergone proper preparation.

  • When can I observe the classroom?

    Parents are encouraged to schedule an observation time with the lead teacher to visit the classroom. Our designated observation time occurs after 9:00 a.m., allowing the first half hour of the school day for the children to settle into their environment. 


    It's important to note that a child's behavior may differ when a parent is present in the classroom. To maintain the integrity of the classroom atmosphere, we kindly request that you remain seated in the observation chair unless your child invites you to participate in an activity. 


    Additionally, we ask that you refrain from engaging with other children. The morning class time holds great significance for the children's development and concentration, particularly at the beginning of the school year when they may be easily distracted from their work.


Three kids showing their activity sheets.



We're here to help you make the best educational choices for your child.


If you have any questions

or would like to schedule a tour,

please don't hesitate to contact us

at (503) 641-4600. 

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Don't wait to unlock your child's potential. Apply to Agia Sophia Academy today!