Marco

This school is simply magical. The fact that it is a free public school is really shocking. Their focus on leadership and teaching kids to be well rounded good citizens is what make it truly unique. In addition to following the 7 habits with Leader in Me, they also maintain high academics in reading, math and science. The teachers voluntarily provide extra clubs for students which are offered monthly so that students can sharpen unique skills such as sewing, painting, acting, wood shop, cooking, soccer, jump roping, and so many more. Any child would be lucky to have the opportunity to attend Tommie Barfield Elementary school.

Island Montessori Academy may be a small package, but it's the whole package! It is so wonderful to witness our daughter's excitement as she prepares for and returns from this gem of a school. This is our family's second school year with IMA and it keeps getting better. The Montessori approach is a proven winner; the entire staff of IMA possess an intrinsic need to simultaneously nurture and educate it seems. At the ripe young age of 4, our daughter is already immersed in Spanish, dance, music, art and the natural world. Of course she is also filled with letters, numbers and science which she quizzes mom and dad on routinely!IMA reminds me of my early days in a 3 room school house in northern New England. It's more a Community & Family then an institution. Speaking of family ours is growing and the newest member who will arrive in December will definitely be attending IMA when she grows a bit.If your family is searching for the "right place" for your children, you've found it here.