The purpose of this qualitative case study was to investigate why the Montessori approach has been viewed as a culturally congruent educational model by some Hawaiian language immersion and culture-based (HLIC) educators and how aspects of it have been used in HLIC classrooms. Data collection included semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 40 Hawaiian educators, document analysis, and visits to 12 school sites. Using grounded theory methodology, similarities in core teaching strategies based on shared values and worldview emerged. Challenges and nuanced distinctions were also revealed, along with an emerging and uniquely Hawaiian pedagogy. Findings indicate that educators and researchers should take worldview and beliefs into account when designing programs and creating both preservice and inservice training opportunities.