About Montessori Educational Center

Dorothy Barry first opened the Montessori Children’s House on Lakeview Street in Pineville in August of 1978. Mrs. Barry had become interested in the Montessori Method of education and received her Montessori certification from American Montessori Society while living in St. Louis, Missouri. The school began with a morning only program with six children, ages three to six. Over the years, Montessori Children’s House grew to become Montessori Educational Center. After being housed in several locations, the Board of Directors decided Montessori needed a permanent home in central Louisiana. Property was acquired, plans were drawn, and a new building was built at 4209 North Bolton Avenue in Alexandria. This has been the school’s home since August of 1996. Today, we offer authentic Montessori programs for children from toddler age to middle school. Thanks to Mrs. Barry’s vision and dedication to establishing a Montessori school in our area, MEC continues to grow and thrive. With a firm foundation and a rich history, we are committed to building a community of creative, independent, socially responsible children who share a lifelong love of learning.