The principal of Lloyd Barbee Montessori in Milwaukee was chosen as the Wisconsin Elementary Principal of the Year last month, yet another recognition for the long-running and thriving public Montessori network operating in the region.
Principal Katie Loss was one of 15 public school principals nominated from around the state, according to a press release from Milwaukee Public Schools.
“I always try to respect everybody, respect the children, respect the families, and really create an environment where I’m leading by example,” Loss said at a school assembly held April 9 in honor of her recognition. “And I’ve had leaders that have done that for me. I’ve seen people who are just kind and give you that grace.”
Where public Montessori thrives
Lloyd Barbee Montessori is one of seven public Montessori schools in the Milwaukee Public School (MPS) district. Public Montessori in the MPS is over 50 years old, which made it the perfect place for the National Center for Montessori in the Public Sector to hold its third annual conference last month. Loss’ recognition only further cements public Montessori’s successful run in Milwaukee.
“I really love you guys, and you all know that. I am getting this award because of all the students’ hard work and all of the teachers’ hard work, and all the paraprofessionals and everybody who works here. They are why we are able to be a successful school,” Loss said.
At the assembly, district officials Superintendent Brenda Cassellius, School Board Director Darryl Jackson, and Montessori coordinator Abigail Rausch all heaped Loss with praise.
“She cares deeply for her staff; for you all, the children; and for the spirit of this building. Her heart and soul are rooted in ensuring that every child is seen, supported, and successful,” Rausch said.
Loss has been principal at Lloyd Barbee since 2012 and was a founding member of the school’s staff beginning in 2008. She began as an administrator, then moved to assistant principal before taking on the principal role, the MPS press release said. Prior to moving to Lloyd Barbee, she taught art, reading, and literacy at other MPS schools.
The Association of Wisconsin School Administrators presents the Elementary School Principal of the Year award with support from the Kohl Educational Foundation.
David worked in private Montessori for more than twenty years as a parent, three-to-six year-old and adolescent teacher, administrator, writer, speaker, and advocate. In 2016 he began working with the National Center for Montessori in the Public Sector. David lives in Portland, Oregon.
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