When it was time for Joanne Lehman to go back to work, her youngest child was only three. Joanne was so unsure about leaving her child at school that she decided to join her! That’s how Joanne’s career with Montessori began. Joanne took a job at the school at the same time that her daughter began classes and was so impressed by their program and teaching philosophies that she went through the training to become a certified Montessori teacher, adding to her degrees in education and community service. Now, thirty years later she’s proud to be running her very own JKL Montessori School in Commack.
“I have been in this profession since 1985 and it never ceases to amaze me how quickly children absorb and learn from their environment,” says Joanne. “At this school, creating the optimum environment is of the utmost importance to us. This environment sets the tone for their development socially, emotionally and academically. “
The JKL Montessori School of Commack recognizes that the process of growing is different for each child. They help children to become self-aware, manage simple tasks and begin to discover their world. Montessori School programs are designed to aid, guide and care for each child as he/she progresses. The professional staff utilizes patience, understanding, love and commitment in addition to their knowledge to help each child along the way. The early childhood educators of JKL Montessori School in Commack have devoted their lives to nurturing children and they encourage parental feedback so that together parents and educators can help children reach their full potential.
Based on the model created by Montessori Schools’ founder, Dr. Maria Montessori, the classroom is divided into five major areas: Practical Life, Sensorial, Math, Language and Art & Cultural. The children are introduced to each area based on their own abilities and interest. When they master each area, they move on to the next. In the process, self-confidence is built as well as self-esteem and independence as well as an increased awareness of the world around them. The social and emotional development of each child is also integrated into the program to create a fulfilling and optimal experience. In addition to their regular curriculum, children have the opportunity to experience classes that run the gamut from Spanish, sign language, arts and sciences to music, movement and gym as well as special presentations such as Portable Planetarium, Farm Animals and so much more!
JKL Montessori School of Commack serves children from six weeks of age through kindergarten. Find more information at their website www.jklmontessori.com or call Director Joanne Lehman at (631) 543-0465. Located at 53 Verbena Drive in Commack.