The Hayfield Montessori School in Louisville, KY opened its doors in September of 1967. Founded by Leo and Monique Denoncourt, it began at the urging of a few parents of children who the Denoncourts were teaching at another school at the time.
The Hayfield School began first as an elementary school only, just one of several such Montessori schools operating at that level in the United States at the time. Beginning with twelve students, the school’s enrollment gradually reached more than 100 as parents informed others, and student alumuni became parents themselves in the community.
In 1985, Lee Havis (IMS) became aware of the school when a local woodworking artist, John Maluda, was developing musical instruments designed on the basis of concepts suggested to Dr. Montessori herself many years ago. At that time, one of the Denoncourt children, Bernadette, was attending the school, and was active in using these instruments. Now, one of the other Denoncourt children, Aline Abell, has become the school’s current director.
At Hayfield, Aline states that, “Most of our teachers have children who attended Hayfield Montessori School. Parent involvement has also played an important role in our school through the Hayfield Montessori Parents’ Association, officially chartered in 1983. It raised enough funds to build the library/ office in 1986…In 2007, another building was added to the campus to better accommodate the school’s growth.”
As to Leo and Monique Denoncourt, Aline reports that they are now mostly retired from teaching, although they still play a hands-on role in the school. She says, “Leo can be seen teaching music to the elementary students, and Monique can often be found in the office or out in the yard hard at work.” Aline especially enjoys having visits from alumni, telling about their further interests, studies, and life activities in the world. She says, “As we celebrate our 52nd successful year, we’re proud of all our students’ achieve-ments, which they have built on their initial talents. We wish to thank all parents who make it possible for their children to be a part of Hayfield Montessori School, where we ‘learn for life.’”
For further information, contact: Aline Abell, Director, Hayfield Montessori School, 2000 Tyler lane, Louisville, KY 40205, Tel. (502) 931- 7143, hayfield-montessori@twc. com, website: www.hayfieldmontessori.com
