FAQ
Is the Montessori Learning Center a school?
No. We are not a private school or charter school.
We are a WV DoHS-licensed childcare center and an Educational Service Provider recognized as a microschool by the WV Secretary of State. The Montessori Learning Center provides services for children ages 3-12. We follow the philosophy and methods of Dr. Maria Montessori, which center on independence, respect, and “following the lead of the child,” for both our preschool and school age children.
What is special about Mountain Laurel Learning Cooperative’s Montessori Model?
“MLLC has been crucial for our family and for both of our kids’ development. They are flourishing academically and emotionally. What goes on in this Montessori environment — both inside and outside the classroom — is pure magic. We wouldn’t trade anything for this Montessori classroom experience. My heart truly explodes whenever I am in the classroom.”
~ Sara Litzau, MLLC parent and volunteer
Our Montessori Learning Center emphasizes independence and self-directed learning with respect for the child’s natural growth. Classrooms are carefully prepared indoor environments with specific materials that guide learning in practical life, sensory activities, language, math, science, and cultural studies. Individualized, small-group, and collaborative learning opportunities are provided.
Each day includes outdoor freeplay and exploration to support child-led learning in natural environments where Guides act as facilitators, supporting children to explore, take appropriate risks, and engage with their surroundings at their own pace.
Music, art, gardening, guest speakers and field trips are interwoven throughout the year.
Together, this approach supports holistic development, social emotional intelligence, confidence, creativity, critical thinking, and academic achievement.
What hours do you operate?
The Montessori Learning Center is a childcare and educational program, operating Mon–Thu from 8:30 AM – 3 PM, during the months of September through May.
Who operates the program?
Our programs are offered by Mountain Laurel Learning Cooperative, Inc., a non-profit education organization guided by a volunteer board of directors.
What does a typical day look like?
| Primary classroom | |
|---|---|
| Time | Activity |
| 8:15 – 8:30 | Arrival / Sign-In |
| 8:30 - 9:00 | Circle Time |
| 9:00 - 11:45 | Work Cycle |
| 11:45 - 12:30 | Lunch & Outdoor Prep |
| 12:30 - 1:15 | Outdoors / Free Play |
| 1:15 – 2:45 | Group Time & Specials |
| 2:45 - 3:00 | Responsibilities |
| 3:00 - 3:15 | Pick-Up / Sign-Out (Late after 3:15) |
| Lower & Upper Elementary classrooms | |
|---|---|
| Time | Activity |
| 8:15 – 8:30 | Arrival / Sign-In |
| 8:30 - 11:30 | Work Cycle |
| 11:30 - 11:45/12:00 | LE Community Time / UE Group Activity |
| 11:45/12:00 - 12:30 | Lunch & Outdoor Prep |
| 12:30 - 1:15 | Outdoors / Free Play |
| 1:15 – 2:45 | Work Cycle & Specials |
| 2:45 - 3:00 | Responsibilities |
| 3:00 - 3:15 | Pick-Up / Sign-Out (Late after 3:15) |
Is there financial assistance available?
Yes! We accept MountainHeart childcare assistance and Hope Scholarship funds for eligible school-aged children. MLLC also has its own Fee Assistance Program and offers a 10% sibling discount. Learn more here.
How do I learn more about enrolling?
Interested families can complete the Inquiry Form, and the Learning Center Director will be in touch.