Welcome

The Montessori Learning Centre was the first private Montessori school in Pickering. The school operates with Montessori's philosophies, theories and a full range of her materials through to the end of the CASA (3 to 6 years) programme. Support materials are used at the Junior (6 to 9 years), Intermediate (9 to 12 years) and the Senior Elementary (13 to 15 years) levels. The school opened with 25 students and has grown to an operating capacity of 240. MLCP is owned and operated by a Montessori Directress. 

At a Glance

While the Ontario School Curriculum is on hand at all times, the philosophy of children working at their "ability level" as opposed to "age level" is predominant throughout the program. Children are placed within each classroom at their level of ability and for each subject, material is presented as appropriate for advancement or reinforcement. Students, then, could be working at different levels in different subjects. Montessori - as an alternative method of education is able to offer an individualized learning environment with a lower staff/student ratio. Generally, students are producing at a commendable level throughout their academic years, especially those with a long term Montessori history. Along with the academic expectations, students are encouraged to develop a good moral base, established study habits and both organizational and production levels of a high standard. Students ages 3 and up engage in studies on language, math and an all encompassing cultural programme. Cultural presentations include studies of natural sciences, geography, history, art, with physical science and chemistry introduced at the older levels. All students receive daily French classes and weekly Music and Physical Education classes. Apart from the basic curriculum, the Elementary students Grades 1 to 8 are introduced to weekly Computer, Art, Civics, Home Economics and library visits. Elementary students are tested bi-annually to gauge areas of strength and weaknesses. General Information Booklets will be distributed upon confirmed placement stating other relevant information.

See our children in action: 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eujR7qRGSRA

Mission Statement

To continue on our path of excellence in education, recognizing the importance of respect, knowledge and individualization for each and every student.

Core Values

L eadership – we strive to be leaders in the community paving and maintaining the way for tomorrow’s leaders.
E xcellence – we commit to the continuing improvement of our teaching methods and curriculum.
A ccountability – in all that we do each day.
R espect – for students, parents, peers and our varied customs and beliefs.
N urture – meeting the individualization of each child and moving them towards achieving their potential.

Our Staff

Staff members are mandated under the MLCP policy manual and annual contracts with regular evaluations. With many of the original teachers still on staff, our staff turn-over remains minimal with an average duration of 5-6 years. Staff members are required to satisfy criminal reference checks with annual First Aid and CPR  updates. All head teachers are qualified Montessori teachers.

What is the PTA?

Your Parent Teacher Association, headed by a group of dedicated volunteers, is the venue through which various issues and fundraising ideas are discussed, along with organizing social activities for both children and parents.  These topics, together with all other important issues are discussed on a regular basis and are designed to address the needs of all children.

PTA Structure

The core committee has collectively decided against electing volunteers to particular positions.  Instead, parents volunteer to help with individual events or tasks on a rotating basis.  This ensures that the responsibilities are divided more evenly and does not require a large burden on specific individuals. If you would like to contact the committee directly, please call Kim Gervais at 905-427-2131 or email at kimgervais@bell.net.

Fundraising Efforts

The MLCP PTA coordinates several fundraising activities during the school year.  For the 2010/2011 school year the largest efforts will be a chocolate bar campaign, a Leaf ticket raffle and and custom holiday cards.  As well, there will be a MIKO Toy Sale purchase period.

Achievements

All funds raised by your PTA are used to support various initiatives that are recommended by the parents, over and above what the school provides, for the benefit of all the students.  The following is a list of what funds were used for in the 2009/2010 school year:

• Timbits and hot chocolate for the Santa Claus parade
• Animal education program from Creepy Crawlers
• Providing the bus for the Elementary trip to a Glen Gould performance
• Musician presentation for Musical Monday
• Fairy Tales program for the Pre-Casa and Infant classes
• Sending the Casa & Elementary children to see King Tut at the AGO
• Pizza & Buses for Sports Day
• Popcorn & Cotton Candy for Play Day
• Ongoing recycling pickups for the school
• Water slide on the last day of school
• Teacher thank you lunch

Schedule of Meetings for Next School Year

Meetings will be held on the following dates starting at 7:00pm with complimentary babysitting provided.  Hope to see you there!

• September 21st       
• October 20th       
• November 25th        
• February 8th
• April 13th
• May 26th

Employment opportunities at MLCP

 
We are always interested in hearing from you. Please email your resume to us at info@mlcp.ca