Who We Are

History

Founded in 1976 in the home of Mrs. Jo Wright, the Montessori School of Florence has grown from a single primary class to a vibrant school community that now includes programs from 2K through 6th grade. We moved to our current location in 1999 and have continued to thrive as a not-for-profit, parent-operated school.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide children and families in Florence, SC, with pre-school and elementary education of the highest quality, consistent with the principles of Montessori education. As an independent, non-denominational, not-for-profit school, we are dedicated to nurturing each child’s potential and fostering a lifelong love of learning.

Accreditations

Our school is accredited by the South Carolina Independent School Association and licensed by the Department of Social Services. Our teachers are certified by the American Montessori Society and are dedicated to delivering an education that meets the highest standards.

Meet Our Faculty & Staff

Faculty

Elizabeth Kahn

Director

BA, College of Charleston; J.D., University of South Carolina School of Law

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Dawn Sumner

Office Manager
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Classroom Teachers

Pre-Primary

Jacqueline Boatwright

Pre-Primary Teacher

AA, Florence-Darlington Technical College

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Evelyn Thompson

Pre-Primary Classroom Assistant
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Primary

Diana Groom

Primary Teacher

BS, Francis Marion University

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Donna Fields

Primary Teacher

BS, Francis Marion University

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Maria Dority

Primary Classroom Assistant

MA, Arzamas State Pedagogical Institute

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Kendall Brand-McGowan

Primary Teacher
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Gennis Laws

Primary Classroom Assistant
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Lower Elementary

Amy Binder

Lower Elementary Teacher

BA, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

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Tamel Pierce

Lower Elementary Teacher

AA, Florence- Darlington Technical College
BS, Utah State University

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Takiya Rogers

Lower Elementary Classroom Assistant

BS, College of Charleston

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Upper Elementary

Beth Franck

Upper Elementary Teacher

BA, East Carolina University

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Esonya Woodberry

Elementary Classroom Assistant
Building/Grounds Manager
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Special Teachers

Heather-Lynne Shannon

Librarian

BA, M.Ed, Ohio University; MT-BC

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