“My teaching is like gumbo; its roux is based on the Montessori method; consisting of a prepared environment and trained teacher. It is child centered and offers individualized self-paced learning. It has a dash of contemporary direct-modeling and instruction along with a whole lot of spicy questions. And for flavor… a sense of community and connection!
Not every gumbo is the same; each year, each student, whatever resources I read or encounter during that time will influence its taste. Each time, it will have subtle differences and I am ok with that. Not every student learns the same nor should every teacher teach the same. If my teaching needs more boudin or a little less salt, I’ll trust the ever evolving process and test it out.
Essentially, if I’m able to free the child’s potential, aim for lasting peace and a love for learning…then bon appétit!”
– Amanda LaPlaca, Founder, Director & Lead-Educator
Meet Ms. Amanda
Amanda is a Montessori certified teacher with over 15 years of experience working with children. She identifies as a creative and forward thinking teacher-leader. Amanda has taught in public and private Montessori schools, coached and trained adults, founded and run camps, programs and clubs and been a teaching artist in schools & museums.
Amanda is the founder and lead educator at FireFly, which started out as a dream and came to fruition before her eyes.
4.0 Schools Fellow (New Orleans, LA)
American Montessori Society Early Childhood Certification (Houston, TX)
B.F.A. Communication Design, Pratt Institute (Brooklyn, NY)
Meet Ms. Jessica
New Orleans has been Jessica’s home for the past 12 years. Before that, she studied architecture and was a caregiver for several families in New York City. She managed before and after school care; where duties included nutrition, classwork, and educational playtime. She is also the oldest of five and is naturally patient, nurturing and kind.
Jessica has a passion for plants and gardens and specifically enjoys outdoor time and nature education with the FireFlies.
Montessori Early Childhood Assistant Teacher Credential, IMC (International Montessori Council)
B. Arch with a minor in Architectural Theory and Technology, Pratt Institute (Brooklyn, NY)
fireflymontessorinola.com 