The Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) was founded in 1929 by Dr. Maria Montessori to maintain the integrity of her life’s work, and to ensure that it would be perpetuated after her death. AMI is the recognised international authority on Montessori education and directs studies in affiliated teacher-training institutions around the world. During its long history AMI has fostered the growth and development of Montessori education practices and standards through active work with member schools, teachers and educators. Regular study conferences of AMI have served as important milestones in the exchange of insights which have grown out of the application of Montessori to widely differing lands and cultures.