A Montessori education rooted in independence
Little Rock Montessori School provides a rich educational experience rooted in the innovative principles established by Dr. Maria Montessori, who made significant contributions to early childhood education as Italy's first female physician. Her philosophy emphasizes the importance of self-directed learning within a thoughtfully prepared environment. This approach fosters independence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Founded in January 1966 as a parent inquiry group, Little Rock Montessori School opened its first class for primary children later that same year. Over the decades, the school has thrived, outgrowing several rented locations and settling into its current facility on North Rodney Parham in the fall of 1970. This location has allowed the school to expand its range, including three primary classrooms and one toddler classroom. In 2008, the school further broadened its reach by opening Little Rock Montessori School South on Hinson Road, which features three primary and one lower elementary classroom.
What makes us different
At Little Rock Montessori School, students engage in a balanced curriculum that integrates individual and non-competitive group activities. The carefully selected Montessori materials are designed to spark curiosity and motivate sensory awareness, providing hands-on experiences in practical life skills, mathematics, language, geography, science, art, music, and movement. This holistic approach encourages children to explore their interests while developing essential skills to serve them throughout their educational journey and beyond.
The school prides itself on fostering a respectful and nurturing environment where each child is recognized as an individual with unique needs and potential. Children learn to take responsibility for their actions and decisions, cultivating a sense of accountability and self-discipline. The concept of a "community of children" is central to the Montessori experience, where students are encouraged to respect the feelings and ideas of their peers. This collaborative atmosphere helps them develop essential social skills like sharing, cooperation, and empathy.
Come see the difference
Little Rock Montessori School is dedicated to offering a thoughtfully designed and stimulating environment that nurtures children's development across multiple dimensions. The school's philosophy is rooted in the belief that every child is unique and deserves an educational experience that respects their needs, interests, and pace of learning. Students engage in a balanced blend of individual activities and cooperative, non-competitive group experiences — building academic growth alongside social skills and emotional intelligence.
The Montessori materials used in the classroom motivate and enhance sensory awareness, offering hands-on experiences that make learning engaging and meaningful, across practical life skills, mathematics, language development, geography, science, art, music, and movement.
- Toddler Community (22 months–3 years) — foundational skills in a nurturing environment.
- Primary (3–6 years) — structured learning experiences with the freedom to explore.
- Lower Elementary (grades 1–3) — deeper critical thinking and problem-solving.
The school invites families and community members to visit and learn more about the Montessori Method. Observing the classrooms in action can provide valuable insight into how children thrive in this unique educational setting. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a visit or observation, please feel free to call the school at (501) 225-2428 or email alexa.britton@lrmontessori.org.
The Little Rock Montessori School team looks forward to sharing their passion for education and nurturing the next generation of learners.
