In the Spotlight: Alumni and Current Parent Alex Molnar

Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m a full-time property investor and run my own business, Molnar Jarrett Property, developing boutique homes in the City of Ballarat. In my spare time, I like to read business biographies (such as ‘My Way’ by Melbourne property developer, Sam Tarascio) and play a few matches of tennis each week. My two daughters, Sasha and Ava, are in Cycle 3. Their teachers are Yasmin (Marram) and Oli (Nar Nar Goon).
 
Why did you decide to send your children to MMS?
The decision for my wife, Eli, and I was relatively straightforward as I’m a past student of MMS. My mother was involved in education, and learnt about Montessori during her post graduate studies, so when she found out that a Montessori kindergarten had recently opened near home, she decided to send me to MMS. It was quite progressive of my Mum back in the 70’s!
 
What advice would you give to new MMS parents?
If you’re more familiar with ‘mainstream’ schooling, you need to take a leap of faith in deciding on a Montessori education for your child. I believe from my own experience, that the education is second to none, so I’d encourage new Montessori parents, who’ve already made that leap, to trust in the Montessori principles and approach – multi-age classes, Montessori materials, and self-directed activities. The teachers are highly qualified and act as facilitators within the classroom. As a result, your child becomes the best version of themselves that they can possibly be.
 
How has your Montessori education helped your career?
My Montessori education put me in good stead in that I was self-motivated to learn more about property development and find a way to get started safely. I even had a mentor (very Montessori) that supported and coached me to understand the ins and outs of the business.
 
Why is it important to get involved in the Montessori community?
Montessori is more than a school, it’s a community that provides support and opportunities that are important to students and families. To help my kids and their classmates succeed, I think it’s important to contribute to their development outside the classroom. That’s why I’ve volunteered to assist the Parent Association in organising the Father’s Day event for the past few years. The event has grown from strength to strength with families (not just Dad’s) enjoying food, entertainment and good times together. Furthermore, I have found it fulfilling to give back to the school in a way that suits my personality and skill set.