Families interested in the benefits of a Montessori education will be able to learn more and personally experience several area Montessori schools Feb. 22-26.

As part of Montessori Awareness Week, which is a nationwide celebration of the Montessori Method's child-centered, individualized approach to education, area Montessori schools will host open houses on Wednesday, Feb. 24.

"The goal of this celebration is to make people aware that Montessori education is still growing and thriving," said Vyju Kadambi, Director of Three Rivers Montessori School.  "In fact, a Montessori education is probably more relevant today than it was a hundred years ago.  The Montessori educational approach may be one of the best-kept secrets in education."

During the open houses, parents and families can tour schools, talk to educators and, in some cases, observe classrooms and students.  Open houses will be held on Feb. 24 at the following times:

* Three Rivers Montessori School, 2315 Long Road (Fort Wayne): 9 a.m.-11 a.m.; 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
* Bunche Montessori Early Childhood Center, 1111 Greene Street (Fort Wayne): 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
* Hope Montessori School, 7715 Sunny Lane (Fort Wayne): 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
* Martin Luther King Montessori School, 6001 S. Anthony Blvd. (Fort Wayne): 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
* Oak Farm Montessori School, 502 Lemper Road (Avilla): 9 a.m.-3 p.m.