What is Montessori?

Montessori is a philosophy of education founded by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian Physician, which she developed through astute observation of how children learn.  In a Montessori classroom, children work independently and in small groups and often use specially designed learning materials to become deeply engaged in their work.  Some components of a Montessori classroom are multi-age group classrooms, specially designed learning materials called works, a family atmosphere and ordered classroom design, child-centered activities, and a high regard for self-discipline, independence, and responsibility.

Is Woodlawn Prep open to the community for student enrollment?

Woodlawn Prep is a Community School with a Christian Worldview.  We recognize that the community our student body is comprised of will have various religious or doctrinal differences.  As a ministry of Woodlawn Church, our School Board of Trustees and Administration do desire for our school families to embody a Biblical Worldview as they grow in their faith in Christ; however, no doctrinal creed is required to attend school.  A Statement of Faith from school leaders can be found in the School Policy Handbook. 

What religious education would my child receive at WPS?

Teacher and student-led devotions and moments of prayer in the morning is common in our classrooms. Woodlawn Prep students also participate in bi-monthly chapel services led by the Woodlawn Church Student Pastor, Woodlawn Kids Pastor, or by other students or community members.  Parents are welcomed to attend chapel with their student. 

What accreditation does the school have?

Woodlawn Prep is nationally accredited through Cognia and regionally accredited through Midsouth Association of Independent Schools (MAIS).

What certifications do teachers have?

Our teachers hold teaching licenses in their subject or grade level through the Mississippi Department of Education or other states that have reciprocity with MS.  Our certified Montessori teachers also hold Montessori teaching certificates through various educational centers endorsed by the American Montessori Society or they obtain this certification training during their first year at WPS.  

What is the teacher student ratio?

The Montessori classrooms, comprising grades PreK3 through 6th grade, have a teacher student ratio of less than 1:12 in each classroom.  The middle and high school teacher student ratio averages less than 1:15 in each subject area.

What enrichment activities does the school offer?

Woodlawn Prep students, PreK3 through Middle School, participate in Art, Music, Spanish, and Physical Education classes weekly.  High School students are offered these as elective courses.  

How is my child kept safe at Woodlawn Prep?

Woodlawn Prep is a secure building.  Security codes are issued to parents to gain entrance to the school using a keypad during certain parts of the day.  Visitors must be allowed access to the building by school staff.  School safety procedures are in place in case of fire, local weather emergencies, or an intruder.