WSM Featured Alumnus: William Lay

William Lay attended Winston-Salem Montessori School from 2005 through 2014. He attended the Children’s House, Lower, and Upper Elementary Programs with Miss Ellen and Miss Sarah.

When asked what he enjoyed about his time at Winston-Salem Montessori School, he said, “I most appreciate the freedom I had to learn at my own pace. I recall much more because learning the Montessori way is naturalistic, unforced, and related to how we learn for the rest of our lives.

He spoke on the transition to a conventional school. “I’m an ADHD kid, so I did not transition to a regular middle school classroom very well. It was too regimented and filled with busy work that made no sense to me. I only attended one year of another private school before transitioning to being homeschooled for 3 years. Then I attended Middle College, where I graduated in the top 10% of my class and am now graduating from college a full year early.”

“Montessori was the basis for my ability to be self-directed and independent when COVID hit. My peers had tremendous difficulty learning at home and managing their time without direction. I was completely prepared to work on my own and yet comfortable enough to seek help when needed. Also, I really feel that the grace and courtesy instilled at Montessori help me navigate this troubled, contentious world with peace and discernment.”

When asked about a meaningful memory with Winston-Salem Montessori School, he said, “I always loved the community sings. So many talented parents and students!!”

“I will graduate from High Point University in Spring 2024. I am an EMT and will be applying to Physician Assistant School. I am an Eagle Scout and did my Eagle project at Winston-Salem Montessori (built the arbor at the back gate).”

When asked what he wished non-Montessori students, parents, and caregivers knew about Montessori, he said, “Non-traditional education is far more valuable than the regimented learning-by-rote experience at regular schools. Winston-Salem Montessori School does not teach to a standardized test, yet we can pass those tests and much more.”

When asked what he wants to say to the current Winston-Salem Montessori School Community, he said, “Thank you all for your caring hearts, sense of humor, and gentle prodding through the years.”

Thank you for being a member of the Winston-Salem School Community William!