Our School
We are now just minutes from Highway 16 off Wollochet Drive in Gig Harbor.
Our garden is a favorite gathering place for the children. The children are the stewards of the garden. The soil is added to the beds. The seeds are started inside then transplanted in the beds, we nurture them and watch them grow. Then we harvest! Such a delicious time. Some of the children’s favorites are strawberries, squash, cherry tomatoes (the gold ones), pumpkins, carrots, and of course sunflowers. Have you ever had caterpillar soup? We love to cook! Here’s a clue for you. All the veggies come from the garden. The pasta noodles look like caterpillars.
Research has shown that children who play and work regularly in natural environments have more advanced motor skills such as agility, balance and coordination and are sick less often. Children that are exposed to the natural world develop stronger awareness, reasoning and observation skills.
We will spend part of everyday outside rain or shine. Bring your rain boots and join us.
Our Classroom
We are a Montessori School. We are unique from traditional preschool and daycare settings. A Montessori classroom is mixed aged. Our classroom is a prepared environment organized for the needs of your preschool aged child. Montessori materials are organized on child sized shelves and tables. Children are encouraged to move about freely choosing “their works.” They may work alone, with a teacher or with friends. The younger children strive to emulate the older children. The older children are given the opportunity to help younger children with skills they have mastered. Confidence and patience grow. Our prepared environment encourages self-directed learning, independence, collaboration with others and respect for all living things.
Why Arletta Montessori
All lead teachers hold a minimum of a BA degree and are Montessori certified and credentialed. All classroom assistants have completed Montessori assistant training. Staff members have current CPR/First Aid training and have passed background checks in the state of WA.
At Arletta Montessori the entire staff is committed to providing a safe, peaceful and happy learning environment where your child will thrive and develop a love of learning.
Our new secure outdoor classroom allows children to explore and learn in our year round gardens, weather stations and wildlife study units during our regularly scheduled class times.
“Highly recommended! This is more than a school. They treat you like family! Our two sons, age 4 & 5, have been under their academic care since they were 2 years old. We have always felt love and attention from Ms Cheryl and staff as well as a consistent behavioral and intellectual increase from both of our boys, each day, in every category! In fact our oldest, who still attends this wonderful school as a supplement to his Elementary School, has impressed his new teachers with the knowledge that he came equipt with. I am a Proud Momma and a thankful one, to all of the staff at Arletta Montessori for helping to foster a love for independent learning in two very different boys!!!”
Our Teachers
All lead teachers hold current Montessori certifications. All lead teachers have experience in the field of early childhood education.
All assistants have completed a Montessori classroom assistant program prior to hire and have years of experience working with young children.
All teachers are certified in CPR/First Aid in ensure your child’s safety.
Cheryl LaPlant
Teacher Cheryl is the Founder and Owner of Arletta Montessori. Cheryl is Montessori credentialed, certified for children from birth through middle school and holds a BA in Education. Teacher Cheryl spent 6 years teaching abroad at the Dhahran Academy, KSA. The largest International Academy in the world at the time.
As a master gardener, Cheryl has been nationally recognized for her environmental science and gardening programs designed for young children. In her free time she enjoys time with her family, reading, cooking and volunteers with several animal rescue groups in our area.
Judy Timmerman
Teacher Judy is a graduate of Bates College and has completed her Montessori classroom assistant training. Judy enjoys crafts and cooking too.
Amy Loughren
Teacher Amy holds a BA in Speech Communication. Amy taught in the Peninsula School District for seven years. Amy is the mother of five amazing children. two dogs and six chickens. In her spare time, Amy enjoys gardening, reading, and knitting.