Prospective Families
Who We Are:
The Legacy of Dr. Josie R. Johnson Montessori School (LJJM) s a K-6 public charter school and includes a tuition-based Preschool in North Minneapolis with a mission to provide an excellent, equitable Montessori education to an intentionally diverse student body, with the promising vision of co-leaders Tonicia and Jamal Abdur Salaam, educational social justice leaders and anti-racist warriors.
Now Enrolling
Toddler (16 months) through 6th grade.
Join the Legacy! Ask us how we're different from the rest.
If you have questions about enrollment, please email enrollment@jjlegacy.org or call 612-302-3410.
Fast Facts
Montessori Frequently Asked Questions (adapted by American Montessori Society)
What ages does this school serve?
How many students are typically in a Montessori class?
Can Montessori accommodate gifted children? What about children with other special learning needs?
Do Montessori teachers follow a curriculum?
Is it true that Montessori students are free to do whatever they want, and at their own pace?
Dr. Maria Montessori observed that children are more motivated to learn when working on something of their own choosing, and at their own unique pace. A Montessori student may choose her focus of learning on any given day, but her decision is limited by the materials and activities—in each area of the curriculum—that her teacher has prepared and presented to her.
Although students are free to work at their own pace, they’re not going it alone. The Montessori teacher closely observes each child and provides materials and activities that advance his learning by building on skills and knowledge already gained. This gentle guidance helps each child master the challenge at hand—and protects him from moving on before he’s ready, which is often what causes children to “fall behind.” Each child is challenged appropriately in each area of the curriculum to ensure that skills and competencies are fully developed and that the child is able to pursue his own unique interests.
Do Montessori students take standardized tests?
Yes, as a public Montessori school, we are are mandated to administer the same standardized tests as other public schools.
Diverse
We are one of 160 Montessori schools, nationwide, that qualifies as "high diversity" that is actively addressing equity and systempic barriers
Staff Reflect Students
We lead children in igniting curiosity and student-led learning to pursue equity and excellence, including experiences of teachers and administrators that look like them.
Changing the Narrative
Our school's powerful pedagogy offers a full educational experience that honors the whole child in order to combat white supremacy in education.
Culturally Responsive
We incorporate pedagogy that embraces the needs and the brilliance of all students, specifically Students of Color.
Enrironmental Literacy
We have curriculum focused on environmental justice and decolonization that pushes our curriculum past traditional context.