Our School

Little City Montessori is an independent preschool and elementary program in Philadelphia. LCM is inspired by the concept of Montessori + Motion combining authentic Montessori child-led learning along with daily active enrichment in music, dance, gymnastics, athletics, yoga and more.

Our Mission

Our goal is to kindle the love of learning by empowering students to lead their own educational journey in a diverse, compassionate, high-fidelity Montessori environment. We strive to build a community of students, families and faculty who truly care for each other and their neighborhood.

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Educational Credentials

• Authentic Montessori curriculum and workcycle
• American Montessori Society (AMS) Member
• Private Academic School license with state-certified teachers
• PA Board of Ed approved Kindergarten program

Exceptional Teaching Staff

• All lead teachers hold Montessori certification
• Experienced teachers have backgrounds in Art, Music, Foreign Language, Speech Pathology
• Favorable student-teacher ratio - 4:1 in Toddler, 8:1 in Primary & Elementary

Intentional Diversity

• Over 50% of the Little City teaching staff is diverse
• Admissions process prioritizes diversity
• All teachers are compensated with a living wage & benefits

Montessori + Motion

• Daily enrichment activities (music, dance, sports)
• 4,000 sqft dedicated activity center
• Access to three local playgrounds and parks
• Community garden plot for LCM students

Newly renovated space

• Natural light via oversized windows in all classrooms
• Brand new classrooms and materials
• Located in the historic Umbrella Building
• UV light air filters in upgraded HVAC system

Giving Back

• 100% of fundraising goes to external, social good causes
• Local partners include the Orianna Street Community Garden, Make the World Better (MTWB) for city playground revitalization and the 23rd Outreach
• Global partners include World Central Kitchen - $25k+ raised
• Support for local neighborhood community organizations (SKCP, OKNA, NLNA, & FNA) and local businesses

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Virtual Tours

Montessori + Motion

By building an Activity Center at the heart of our school, we offer the opportunity for our children to learn and play together rain or shine.

Montessori principles allow children to build confidence, compassion and practical life skills in the classroom. Little City was also designed to address the out-of-classroom needs of Philadelphia's dynamic kids. Movement-based classes in our dedicated activity center create an outlet for children’s energy and introduce them to a variety of extracurricular activities throughout the day.

Move to the Little City Activity Center

SPACE TO LEARN AND GROW

Experienced montessori team

Little City’s teachers are certified by the American Montessori Society. Our diverse staff has experience ranging from teaching internationally to backgrounds in linguistics, art, and music.

big space for little learners

Each classroom in the historic Umbrella Building has large windows letting in natural light. Our spacious school features a 4,000 square foot activity center with dedicated enrichment guides.

Convenient location

We are conveniently located on 5th & Master Streets in Olde Kensington, near Fishtown and Northern Liberties. Cruz Playground is directly across the street with Benson Park and Hart Park nearby.

Our Program

5 Days A Week

As a member of the American Montessori Society, our curriculum immerses children (two to six years old) into an authentic Montessori education five days a week. One of the primary goals of a Montessori classroom is to create a culture of consistency, order, and independence for the child. The work can be complex and builds on itself, so the consistency of a five day program allows students to maintain a high level of enthusiasm for their work when they return to school each day.

Early & After Care

Our Early Care program begins at 7:30am and the After Care program runs until 6pm. Students participating in Early and After Care will have dedicated access to the Little City Activity Center and adjacent parks for structured activities and free play.

summer PROGRAM

Little City operates on an academic year and offers summer programming for enrolled students. Little City staff will lead the summer program, providing continuity for families. Our authentic Montessori program will continue throughout the summer with a greater emphasis on recreational activities such as water play.