Meet the Founder

Liberated School House was founded by Leslie Whitmore, an Early Education leader and parent with 20 years of experience building Montessori communities. Leslie holds two Montessori diplomas focusing on early childhood education (ages 2 to 6 years old).

In 2013, as a new parent, Leslie set out to find a Montessori environment that aligned with her values, one rooted in respect for the child, emotional well-being, and gentle discipline. When she couldn’t find a program that served young children in this way, she created her own.

What began as a small, home-based preschool in Dallas, Texas grew into multiple thriving Montessori schools reaching as far as San Antonio, and serving hundreds of children and families along the way.

Over the years, Leslie expanded her work to include larger campuses while staying grounded in the same core values that inspired her from the beginning.

Now, after relocating to Portland, she is returning to her roots, creating an intentionally small, home-based school designed to offer a deeply connected and meaningful early childhood experience.

Leslie is also a mother of three, all of whom were raised in Montessori environments, further shaping her commitment to honoring childhood with care, respect, and intention.