Montessori Academy of London | London, Ontario

Dear Montessori Academy of London Families & Friends,

As the 2022-2023 school year comes to an end, it is an opportunity to reflect and celebrate an MAzing year. For some, like myself, it was a year of firsts. For those of you who have been part of this special community for some time, it was a year marked by renewal. We welcomed back activities such as the Journey to Discovery for parents to experience Montessori education firsthand. We had the stellar performances of ‘Annie Jr.’ at the Wolf Performance Hall and our Winter Concert at Centennial Hall. The school hosted classroom visits and socials with parents able to join other parents in the classroom to watch their children in action. And Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day welcomed extended family members into the school for the first time since 2019! Opening the doors to friends, family and the broader community was a special chance for many to feel and experience the strength of the relationships and magic of this school.

Enrolment for 2022-2023 was strong, which means we welcomed many more new families to our community than we have in past years. We have seen a strong interest in admissions as well which is a testament to the incredible and world-class Montessori education offered right here in London.  Not to mention, we also celebrated the 55th Anniversary of the school, marking an important milestone in the history and legacy of the school in the community.

The Board’s and school’s commitment to providing a world-class Montessori education – one that promotes academic excellence and prepares children and young adults to engage the world as active citizens and successful leaders – was reconfirmed in our new Strategic Direction – 2022-2027 that will guide us through to 2027.  The Strategic Direction was developed through the active engagement of our community, including school leaders, educators, staff, volunteers and families. Like the Montessori Method itself, our school remains stable and focused, yet flexible and adaptive to the world that surrounds us. The Board and its members also remain committed to guiding direction by mindfully stewarding the school’s resources and strengthening our incredible Montessori Academy community.

This past year, Governors Kevin Higgins and Wilma McIntyre completed their terms serving on the Board. Kevin and Wilma have been absolutely integral over the last many years helping to establish strong governance practices for the school. Their legacy and impact have set a strong foundation for us all and we are very thankful for their contributions.  This year, we also welcomed a new Governor, Kelly Wang, while appointing a new Executive Committee. We are so fortunate to have such dedicated and passionate contributors on our Board. Thank you to all Governors past and present. It is truly a privilege to serve among such a dedicated group of individuals. You can learn more about each of our Governors on the school’s website: Board of Governors – Montessori Academy of London | London, Ontario.

As we enter summer and look toward the next school year, I am filled with excitement at what the year will present. Our enrollment is strong, our community continues to be vibrant, and some exciting renovations are underway at 711 Waterloo St. – aka the Elementary location! Just wait until you catch a glimpse of our new and improved spaces, including the corridor between 719 and 711 Waterloo, meeting rooms, classrooms and, of course, the Elementary Library! MA-zing, doesn’t even begin to describe what’s in store for our students, faculty and families.

Warm regards,
Melissa

Melissa Sariffodeen, President
Montessori Academy of London Board of Governors