Judge Lionel R. Collins STEM School

~Lionel Collins Montessori School, formerly Ames Elementary, is a magnet school within the Jefferson Parish Public School System. Any child entering Pre-Kindergarten through second grade residing in Jefferson Parish is eligible for enrollment. Second through Fifth grade requires a minimum of a 2.0 grade average and no behavior referrals.

~Montessori focuses on the individual child and enables him/her to become an independent learner.

~The teacher is a facilitator of learning as students manipulate various Montessori materials. Children make discoveries with the materials which develops their ability to concentrate, be self-motivated, self-disciplined, and have a love of learning.

~Montessori is a highly structured method of instruction. Children have a daily work plan which they are encouraged to complete. Specific skills are addressed through the use of the materials.

~The pre-school/early childhood classrooms are divided into five areas: Practical Life, Sensorial, Math, Language Arts, and Cultural.

Practical Life activities build concentration, coordination, independence, and order.

Sensorial activities develop sensory perception/

Language development activities are integrated in all curriculum areas and activities throughout the day. It strongly addresses phonics, reading, and writing.

Math activities develop math concepts concretely before moving to paper and pencil.

Cultural activities relate to history, geography, and the sciences.

~The elementary program is an extension of the early childhood program. All subject matter is integrated.

~The Montessori framework for instruction is aligned with Common Core State Standards.

~As a part of the Montessori style learning, music and art are offered as well.

*Note that the Montessori program is intended for PreK to second grade.