Association of Minnesota Public Educational Radio Stations

Stitch by Stitch: Janice LaFloe’s Journey of Indigenizing Montessori Education

Native Lights

Janice LaFloe

In this episode, we speak with Janice LaFloe, a citizen of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa and Executive Director of the Montessori American Indian Childcare Center (MAICC) in St. Paul. Janice shares her remarkable journey from being a Montessori parent to establishing one of the largest Montessori centers dedicated to American Indian children. Her passion was sparked by witnessing her son’s education rooted in love, respect, and child-centered learning.

We explore what makes the Montessori approach at MAICC so unique, and how the center has evolved to Indigenize its practices to better serve Native communities. Janice also discusses the center’s exciting expansion plans and its ongoing success. We wrap up by learning more about Janice’s personal interests, including spending time walking in nature, engaging with her community, and sewing. Join us for a thoughtful conversation on education, culture, and community with an inspiring leader.

Subscribe to Native Lights wherever you get your podcasts

Apple PodcastsSpotifyRadio PublicRSS


More from Native Lights

  • Gary Farmer: Living Life on Screen for 50 Years
    Today, we’re excited to be joined by one of the most recognizable faces in Indigenous film. Gary Farmer is from the Cayuga Nation and has a long career in movies and TV, and he’s a musician, performing with his group Gary Farmer & The Troublemakers.
  • David Amitrano: Witnessing
    Today, Leah speaks with David Amitrano, the owner of Midwest All-Star Wrestling, a Minnesota-based, Native-owned independent wrestling organization in Woodbury.
  • Nikki Love (Pieratos): Keeping Relatives and Neighbors Safe in Uncertain Times
    Today, we are honored to welcome Nikki Love (Pieratos) to the Native Lights podcast. An enrolled citizen of the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, Nikki is the executive director of the Tiwahe Foundation, which is a community organization serving Native people around Minnesota. She’s also a part of the Metro Urban Indian Directors. Nikki shares her insight on what keeps her grounded and how keeping a prayerful attitude and a focus on the present helps keeps her from dwelling in fear and negativity.