The Montessori student-teacher partnership is a unique and dynamic relationship based on mutual respect and trust: Children are offered opportunities to be partners in their own education, being given the freedom to select learning opportunities that most engage/resonate with how they learn best. Teachers act as facilitators, observing each child's interests and developing needs, and providing individualized support, while also ensuring rigorous academic standards in accordance with both the Montessori philosophy and ISBE (Illinois State Board of Education) standards.