LePort Montessori School

I have two boys that attend LePort San Marino. They've been attending over the last 4 years. My eldest started at the age of 2 in the Pre-Primary program and my youngest started at 18 months. Now my eldest is 5 and is finishing his 3rd year in Primary (preparing for lower elementary) and my youngest will continue just the same. I have watched my boys grow and develop into confident, considerate and bright young kids. I have no doubt that their education is above par, not only academically, but socially. All the credit goes to their fantastic teachers over the years. It just may be, that I love them as much as my boys do. They're teachers are always available for a quick chat and keeping an open line of communication between home and school. LePort San Marino gives me the assurance that my child is receiving the love, attention and care I would give them,
—Submitted by a parent

As a LePort parent for the past 4+ years, I am amazed at how much all three of our children have learned at LePort San Marino. They are thriving in the environment academically and socially. Our kids have always had committed, attentive, and compassionate educators in their classrooms. I am extremely appreciative of all the teachers and administrative staff as they have made our family s first school experience a positive and enjoyable one! Our son started the toddler program in the fall, and I was worried how he would do without me there. The teacher took the time to ensure my son (as well as other new students) felt safe and comfortable in their new environment. He loves his teacher and even asks about her when he isn't at school! This is a nurturing and well-structured environment that has impacted my children in such a positive way. LePort has created a foundation for the desire and method for learning in a way that will prepare them for their futures, and I am so grateful.
—Submitted by a parent

LePort San Marino is an excellent school. What makes the school so outstanding are the teachers. My son has flourished in his class. His teacher, Ms. Silva, has demonstrated superior teaching experience, both academically as well as socially. She really understands her students and helps them as much as she can. She has the perfect mixture of warmth and high standards when teaching. My son is happy to go to school every morning. Thanks to his teacher's leadership, he is confident in his abilities and eager to work hard to learn.
—Submitted by a parent

My 5 year old son has been at LePort since he was 2. The values of Montessori are something that will last for a lifetime with my child. Yes, at LePort, he s learned a lot about reading, writing, social studies and arithmetic. But he s also learned strong social skills, how to be empathetic, and how to help other children who are younger than him, or who are struggling with a task. Many parents think Montessori is all about academics but I would challenge any parent to find a preschool program that fosters more kindness, caring and positive social skill than Montessori, and none in Orange County do it more skillfully and gracefully than Leport. One reason I recommend LePort is that I can tell that LePort adheres to the highest standards. Montessori isn t a licensed name, so many schools may call themselves Montessori, but aren t, really. At LePort, all the teachers are AMI trained, which is the toughest Montessori training. Most importantly, LePort hires people who really love teaching, for whom this is a chosen career, and not just job. I can really see how all the teachers at LePort enjoy observing the growth and change in their students.
—Submitted by a parent

Having my daughter at LePort has been a fantastic experience! Over the course of the last four years, I am truly amazed by her rapid development. Her enthusiasm when she talks to me about her daily happenings in school warms my heart. She loves to sing new songs that she has learned and comes home motivated to practice her cursive writing skills. The teachers are authentic, patient, and understanding. They model grace and courtesy, an important life skill. LePort offers insightful parent education lectures that have helped me foster independence in my child. The administration staff is consistently pleasant and helpful. I couldn't be more pleased with the level of communication that LePort provides. I am very proud of my daughters accomplishments, thanks to LePort.
—Submitted by a parent

This school was so horrible that I had to pull out my daughter immediately. The teacher was so cold to the children. She told me they believe in a "Hands off" approach in dealing with toddlers even if it is her/his 1st day out of mommy's arms. There are too many unreasonable rules 2 y/o kids have to follow like no jumping out of excitement and no taking off shoes even to fix her socks or to take the sand out. They must keep their shoes on when napping. The teacher also said "No" for the sake of smooth transition when asked if my daughter could bring her lovey stuffed toy to nap with. Soon after attending this school, my otherwise outgoing chatterbox girl became so quiet, withdrawn, and fearful all the time. My daughter is back to her normal silly happy girl in another Montessori where kids are hugged by their teachers many times, allowed to jump out of joy and nap with their favorite pillow pet from home without their shoes on.
—Submitted by a parent

This school is a horrible environment for children. When you tour the school, do so when school is in session. Because you will notice that the kids look withdrawn and non-socialized. They just look sad. The administration is not in touch with any information about what makes for a happy environment and thus successful school. The teachers are almost mean; on 4 separate occasions I witnessed them yelling at the kids, wonder what happens when the parents are not present. Furthermore, they and the administration and corporate look out for each other while no one is looking out for the children. The sad part is that many of the parents are not aware of this dynamic. One of the kids in a little children's classroom was seriously assaulted, she had to go to the hospital and all the principle wanted to do was move the victim and leave the perpetrator in the same class. The school and cooperate do a great job of covering up stuff like this. It's just very sad
—Submitted by a parent

We had our daughter at LePort San Marino for 3 years (two years in the primary program and one year in the lower elementary program). Both of her teachers were excellent. We would have kept her there, but we are moving out of state this summer and have to say goodbye. My husband has his Ph.D. in Education and thinks very highly of the Montessori program and how LePort has executed it. The teachers are professional, well-trained, and extremely caring. The small size of the classes allows for very personalized attention to each student as well as the opportunity for parents to develop a good relationship to the teacher. This is critical for a good education. I definitely recommend this school and am sorry we have to go.
—Submitted by a parent

As a dad of 2 year old son, I wasn t sure what is good or bad for my son in the school. But, what my son got from class 3B was way beyond my expectation. Within few weeks of his class, the teachers at 3B, gained my trust, belief and respect. At some point I even felt my son was in good care, equal to being in his mom s hand. I believed what Ms.Kwong (and Ms.Alex) noticed in my son, implemented the changes and yes, they were right 100%. She even helped us to identify his hearing loss symptom, which we would not have noticed. I sincerely recommend the school premises and the faculties for the new parents who are going to send their little ones to the school. The faculties listened to my concerns and even recommended, facilitated the course of action needed.
—Submitted by a parent

Like many first-time parents seeking for the right school to start our daughter s education, we visited and compared most if not all of the preschools in Irvine. We are so glad to have chosen LePort San Marino. Like many toddlers, our daughter had a difficult time adjusting to school life at the beginning. Her teachers, the Head of the School and the administration team have all been a great help to work with our family and make sure the transition is as smooth as it can be. Their attention to detail, professionalism and consideration have continued throughout the year. They have created a wonderful learning and inspiring environment for all the kids. Our daughter has been progression in many aspects. It s wonderful to see how much she enjoys school, learning and spending time with her teachers. The thoughtfulness of the school leaders and teachers really shows in working with families like us to resolve issues and challenges along the way. It s truly invaluable to have quality education facilitates like the LePort schools in our community. Thank you to all of you at LePort.
—Submitted by a parent

My son Ani attended San marino from Sep 2011. I only have the best things to say about this school, teachers and other admin staff. My son learned a lot. I was very apprehensive about the montessori system and soon started seeing the benefits of the system. Whenever i had any concern the head of school Ms. Jennifer, teachers and staff were willing to hear me out and were ready to resolve any issues. We had to move to another branch of Leport due to the long commute we had. My son still misses his old school and his class teacher a lot. My husband and I miss everyone at San marino. This school is one of the cleanest and well run school I have seen in Irvine.
—Submitted by a parent

Our daughter attended for three years at LePort San Marino including pre-K, kindergarten, and 1st grade. She received a valuable education, self confidence, and learned respect for others as well. Each day she practiced self motivation, concentration, and completing of assignments. The Lower Elementary program is great and she was proud of her work and always excited to go to school.
—Submitted by a parent

My son attended Leport for pre-school and stayed 2 years. He is now in 2nd grade and we have moved out of the city. I am not sure if any changes have happened since we last attended but I would like to acknowledge Monica and her staff for the years my son was there. Great Montessori school!!
—Submitted by a parent

With the exception of one teacher, we have had excellent teachers that really care about the welfare of the children. The teacher that I did not like (actually at the LAKE campus) was really big on 'favoritism' and was not shy about it-a little unprofessional in my opinion. I do agree with some of the other reviews that they have too many holidays that we have to pay double for if we don't take time off work, and the fees are high, and the tardy policy is a bit outlandish but the academics are excellent and my kid does like coming to school...that's what keeps us there.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter started attending this school in Nov last year and has already learn so much academically. I agree with many reviews that this school did a great job focusing on academica development of my child. Her teacher is very good and that's why I will keep her there. I also like the parent education night that allow me to learn more about the teaching material. however I too am frustrated with the administrative rules and policies. There are way too many days off (i did a comparison with other montessori in Irvine) and the summer program is very expensive. This makes it very difficult for working parents to plan for day care. Also, they make it seem difficult for parents to do observation of the classroom. I requested one and got an appt time 2 months later. I will still recommend this school b/c of the teacher and facility.
—Submitted by a parent

I absolutely love this school. Both my children attend LePort Montessori and I am very pleased of the way they have both blossomed. The teachers are very knowledgeable and talented. I love the personalized attention that my children receive from their teachers. My children love it there and are very fond of their teachers. On the other hand, their early registration policy is a bit distressing, and out of touch considering the somber economical climate that we all face. However; I know for a fact that they ll be willing to work with you in case of encumbrance or difficulty. Furthermore, I do believe that they have too many days off, and the Daycare option on some of these holidays is very costly. It is cheaper to take that day off from work to stay at home with the children. They should be mindful of the fact that many parents cannot afford to either stay at home or pay the steep fee and offer a much better alternative; especially for those who are already paying for daycare in their monthly tuition. Other than that, the administration staff is very friendly, knowledgeable, and understanding. The school is always very clean and I know my kids are getting the best of care and education.
—Submitted by a parent

fine academically, but nothing being done about frustrating traffic and parking situation

Well structed teaching, the teachers are great. But there are a lot of rules where you have to end up paying fees. I feel like they try to make so much money way ahead of time by making you sign up in advance for each summer, fall term. They have way to many school days off for the amount of money you pay. They should at least not make you pay for all those school days off.
—Submitted by a parent

A great start up school! My daughter Aanya had stayed with me completely at home until she turned 3 and started school. I was very anxiuos as to how she would adjust. It must be said to the credit of the friendly and experienced staff that they made a big difference to Aanya's approach towards school. She is learning to be more self reliant with each passing day. I highly recommend this school to all parents who are looking for a school to lauch their child in to this routine. I feel it is an excellent foundation to groom and prepare your child to take the next step in life.
—Submitted by a parent

Great school. Caring, talented teachers helps my kids to learn. One thing that frusturates me is their administration. They have too many day-offs (closing school for a whole day for parents-teachers conference is too much for working parents), fine for simple mistakes etc. Also they ask the parents to register for next academic year (which starts on Sep) in Feb itself. If the administration shows little more concern for parent's thoughts, this school will reach it's highest score. Has a clean environment and good set of teachers, which makes me to continue in this school.
—Submitted by a parent