The Montebello Academy Pedagogical methodology is a hybrid construction of systems taken from Highest performing education models in the world according to PISA, which align with the research of top pedagogical experts, Robert Marzano and John Hattie, as to what “works best” for student learning. Applying this research, we have confirmed that the classroom experience becomes much more engaging when students come to class prepared to contribute and learn from each other, rather than arriving for a didactic lecture without feedback or student input.
In our model, students come prepared even before entering the classroom, where teachers’ skills are applied consistently by “using all the minutes” for learning. From the moment they enter, this allows students to be immediately engaged in purposeful, on-task activities that are guided through seamless transitions. By working individually and in small groups of 3–5 peers, they are encouraged to share their understandings, debate them, and own their ideas through continuous feedback. As the best method of learning, this feedback primarily comes from peers, with the teacher acting as a facilitator rather than a lecturer.
Groups are strategically formed to create a strong collaborative dynamic, with built-in differentiation to ensure that no student is left behind. This results in students achieving a “Deep” and “Transfer” level of understanding, that goes beyond the classroom and is highly visible to both student and teacher.
It’s About Kids has been invited by key leaders in San Cristóbal, the capital of the Galápagos Islands, to establish a school that will extend the advantages of our Quito campus, Montebello Academy, to an even more marginalized and isolated segment of Ecuadorian society.
Today, education on the islands ranks among the weakest in a country already struggling near the bottom of global standings. Opportunities are so limited that many parents have faced the heartbreaking decision of sending their children to live on the mainland with relatives in search of better—though still inadequate—schools.
Because the islands’ economy relies heavily on tourism, parents dream of their children carrying forward their family businesses. And since English is the primary language of the visitors who sustain those businesses, what families need most is precisely what we are best equipped to provide: true mastery of English.
For teachers we hope for a two-to-five-year commitment to Montebello. Many of our teachers choose to stay much longer, but this minimum ensures that both the teacher and the school can fully benefit from the partnership. As the saying goes, "At the end of the day we all do what we most want to do". In Montebello, this reflects why so many teachers fall in love with the adventure, culture and mission of our school, so leaving is often a meaningful and bittersweet moment, no matter how long they have been with us.
Simply Contact Us and our EduVenture Director will reach out to schedule an online consultation. During this session, we will answer your initial questions and learn more about you. If you would like information in advance, you can also send questions through the dedicated WhatsApp messaging platform we provide for inquiries.
While this opportunity is both adventurous and purposeful, it differs from international programs that recruit teachers for short term positions in elite schools with high salaries. That said, Montebello does offer competitive compensation. Experienced teachers, as well as those new to the profession who demonstrate a strong ability with our methodology, receive generous salaries comparable to the best private schools in Ecuador. More importantly, you will be joining a community on a meaningful mission where the professional and personal growth opportunities are equally extraordinary.
Thank you for your interest in It’s About Kids. Please fill out the contact form and let us know your questions or inquiries. Please include as much detail as possible. One of our team members will review your message and get back to you as soon as possible. You may use our phone contact for voice messages. We are out with the kids and rarely answer the phone. If a voice conversation is desired, give us your number and let us know the best time to call you. We would love to talk with you.
1-760-553-2728
