Leelanau Montessori Public School Academy (LMPSA) in Lake Leelanau began the new year this week with 126 children and an accomplished and committed staff.
The school has full enrollment in its early childhood programs and continues to enroll students at the elementary level.
The school’s lead guides (teachers) have all received Montessori certification from the Association Montessori International (AMI) which is quite an accomplishment, according to Head of School Arden Wilson.
“The faculty and staff make all the difference as we know, and we support successful Montessori educators as we implement our mission,” Wilson said.
The school special education specialist has received a scholarship from the Margaret Elizabeth Stephensen Fund to offset the cost of attending an upcoming AMI certification course in Denver, Colorado.
“This is of particular note as this fund is reserved for those working in Montessori schools that serve marginalized communities,” Wilson said. “ We all should be proud that Leelanau County supports a public Montessori school that will serve anyone who would like to enroll.”
Two classroom assistants are enrolled in the local Grow Your Own Teacher Education Program through the Northwest Ed and Grand Valley State University Masters Program Partnership. They will earn their state certificate over the next two years allowing them to follow a powerful, professional pathway as educators.
“We continue to build a compelling and inviting campus and have added swings and some new green spaces for the children,” Wilson said.
