LaSalle Backus vs. Lee Montessori

Attribute	LaSalle Backus	Lee Montessori
Founder	LaSalle Backus	Maria Montessori
Philosophy	Traditional education	Montessori education
Teaching Method	Teacher-led instruction	Child-centered learning
Curriculum	Structured curriculum	Individualized curriculum
Classroom Environment	Traditional classroom setup	Montessori prepared environment

Location

LaSalle Backus is located in the heart of Washington, D.C., while Lee Montessori is situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Northeast D.C. Both schools are easily accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for families to drop off and pick up their children.

Curriculum

LaSalle Backus follows a traditional curriculum that focuses on core subjects such as math, science, language arts, and social studies. In contrast, Lee Montessori implements the Montessori method, which emphasizes hands-on learning, self-directed activities, and mixed-age classrooms. This approach allows students to learn at their own pace and explore their interests.

Class Size

At LaSalle Backus, class sizes are typically larger, with an average of 25 students per class. In comparison, Lee Montessori maintains smaller class sizes, with an average of 15 students per class. This smaller class size allows for more individualized attention and support for each student.

Extracurricular Activities

Both schools offer a variety of extracurricular activities to enrich the students' learning experience. LaSalle Backus provides opportunities for sports, music, art, and drama, allowing students to explore their interests outside of the classroom. Lee Montessori also offers extracurricular activities, but they are often integrated into the daily curriculum, providing a more holistic approach to learning.

Parent Involvement

Parent involvement is encouraged at both LaSalle Backus and Lee Montessori. Parents are invited to participate in school events, volunteer in the classroom, and engage in their child's education. This partnership between parents and teachers helps create a supportive learning environment for students.

Facilities

LaSalle Backus boasts modern facilities with state-of-the-art technology, spacious classrooms, and outdoor play areas. Lee Montessori, on the other hand, has a more intimate setting with cozy classrooms, natural materials, and outdoor gardens. Both schools provide a safe and nurturing environment for students to learn and grow.

Teacher Qualifications

Teachers at LaSalle Backus are certified educators with experience in traditional teaching methods. In contrast, teachers at Lee Montessori are trained in the Montessori philosophy and approach, which requires specialized certification. Both sets of teachers are dedicated professionals who are committed to providing a high-quality education for their students.

Conclusion

Overall, LaSalle Backus and Lee Montessori offer unique educational experiences for students in Washington, D.C. While LaSalle Backus provides a traditional curriculum with larger class sizes, Lee Montessori offers a more hands-on, individualized approach to learning with smaller class sizes. Both schools prioritize parent involvement, extracurricular activities, and qualified teachers to create a supportive and enriching environment for students to thrive.