Our History

Since 1984, Kinder Haus Montessori School has been led by this vision: “Creating an environment where children, parents, and teachers are supported in reaching their full potential.”

Our story began with Pat Lacoste, who discovered her calling in early childhood education in 1966. Her experience working with children in traditional preschools, childcare centers, and Montessori environments throughout the United States and Europe shaped her vision for a school that truly honored the needs of the whole child. In 1976, Pat earned her Montessori diploma from St. Nicholas in London.

With a deep understanding of both Montessori education and the needs of young children and their families, Pat turned her vision into reality. In 1984, Kinder Haus Montessori School opened its doors in Metairie, creating a nurturing Montessori environment designed to support children as they grow, explore, and develop independence.

From the beginning, Kinder Haus has been committed to meeting the needs of both children and working families. We were among the early Montessori schools in the United States to offer full-time, year-round care within a Montessori Children’s House, and we embraced programs for children as young as 12 months at a time when this was uncommon in Montessori education.

Today

Nurturing children and supporting families since 1984

Over the years, Kinder Haus has also become a place where educators come to learn. Our Metairie school has served as a model facility, toured by and used as a training site for hundreds of Montessori and early childhood professionals. Pat’s passion for sharing her knowledge extended beyond Kinder Haus as well. As a state-certified trainer for Unlimited Potential Incorporated, she traveled throughout Louisiana, helping train childcare workers and directors and encouraging higher standards of care and education for young children.

Pat’s commitment to children and early childhood education has been recognized through numerous professional opportunities and honors. She represented the United States as a member of the People to People Delegation to China in 1991 and was invited to represent the Louisiana Child Care Owners Association at the White House. She also served on the East Jefferson Hospital Advisory Board for Women and Child Services and as a state liaison for the National Association of Child Care Professionals.

Throughout her career, Pat has been an active member of professional organizations dedicated to children and education, including the American Montessori Society, National Association for the Education of Young Children, Association Montessori Internationale, Louisiana Child Care Council, Louisiana Professional Association for Child Care, and Louisiana Association for Children Under Six.

At the heart of Kinder Haus has always been a simple belief: children deserve to be known, respected, and given the opportunity to grow at their own pace.

Pat’s passion for improving the quality of care and education for young children has inspired generations of teachers and families. Today, that commitment continues at Kinder Haus Montessori School as we build on the foundation she created in 1984.

We are proud of our history, grateful for the families and educators who have been part of our journey, and excited to continue nurturing children and supporting families in our community for generations to come.