Our Mission

Early Education

Lifespan strives to embody Montessori ideology in the early education of our students. Our mission is to provide a loving environment wherein every child can feel comfortable, safe, and open to exploring new horizons. Hands-on approaches are used to care for the environment by tending to live plants and animals, recycling, composting, and resource conservation. Youth enrichment programs are centered on the arts and the celebration of various cultures. Above all, our mission is to encourage students to care for each other.

Why do so many families choose Montessori?

Individualized Learning

Lessons are tailored and introduced to each child at the perfect moment for their readiness and growth.

Whole Child Education

Equal focus is placed on social, emotional, and physical development alongside academic growth.

Empowered by Choice

The freedom to move and select activities nurtures independence and builds self-confidence.

Supported by Research

Recent research in neurology and human development consistently supports the effectiveness of Montessori methods.

Our Teachers

Our teaching staff is the most important element in the Lifespan program. They bring a wealth of experience and knowledge about nurturing children and engaging them in Montessori preschool practices. Our children thrive under the guidance of all of our teachers, and we are fortunate to have this wonderful and talented group teaching early education!

Our Directors

Michelle Cannizzio - Director

Hello! My name is Michelle Cannizzio and I'm the Center Director at Enchanted Forest Academy. I have been the Center Director here for 2 years and in the Early Childhood Education field for over 30 years. I enjoy partnering with both families, staff and children to create an environment that is warm, welcoming and inspiring. I enjoy watching how each child develops and how I and the teachers can play a role in their development.

Kelsi Engleoff - Assistant Director

My name is Kelsi, I have been in the childcare field for just about 7 years. I have obtained my Director's Credential within the last year. My focus is on giving your child a safe, routine-focused, and creative space to learn and grow into a wonderful person. I give your children the same love and support I give my two babies at home.

Curriculum

Our Programs

Our Accolades

In August 2010, Lifespan received grant support from Athens’ Quality Care for Children to pursue accreditation through NAEYC, the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Lifespan received NAEYC accreditation in November 2011, and recently received the highest honor (3 stars) and the Inclusion Endorsement from Georgia’s Quality Rated program. Lifespan received the Georgia Association for the Education of Young Children’s (GAEYC) Program of the Year Award in 2010, and three of Lifespan’s teachers, along with their administrative director, received state-wide GAEYC Quality Service Awards in 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014. Emma was nominated for the prestigious Athens Area Chamber of Commerce ATHENA Award in 2013. Utilizing collaborative efforts among our teachers and various community partners, Lifespan was the first Montessori preschool in Athens to be named an Athens-Clarke County Green School.

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Want to discover a nurturing environment where your child’s curiosity thrives, with dedicated educators who foster a love for learning through play and exploration.

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