From its inception in 1968, Martin Luther King Montessori School has been dedicated to providing quality care and education to low-income preschool children in the Fort Wayne community.
Our Mission
Martin Luther King Montessori School’s mission is to provide quality care and education that fosters a child's natural ability to learn while promoting self-confidence, social and cognitive development, and independence.
Jamkia Gates-Smith, MLKMS Head of School
jgates-smith@mlkdreamschool.org
Kia joined MLK Montessori in 2022 as a co-teacher and quickly advanced through key leadership roles, including License and Accreditation Manager and Assistant Head of School. During her time at MLK Montessori, she has played a pivotal role in strengthening classroom practices, supporting staff development, and enhancing student success.
“Her dedication to the students and willingness to go above and beyond made her the clear choice for the position,” said Robert Stamper, Board President. “We also feel that Kia will bring a freshness to the culture at MLK, as she is not afraid of trying something new. The board is blessed to have such talent and dedication in Miss Kia, and we can't wait to see what new things she has for the school.”
Kia’s journey into early childhood education was inspired by her experience as a mother, which deepened her appreciation for the importance of a nurturing and supportive learning environment. She went on to earn an associate degree in early childhood education, followed by a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, which she completed in 2020.
MLK Montessori has been serving the Fort Wayne’s southeast community since 1968, providing high-quality Montessori education to primarily low-income children. The school is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and has earned the prestigious Paths to QUALITY™ Level 4 designation from the State of Indiana. The 8,500-square-foot facility includes five classrooms, a school library, and an enclosed playground with a school garden. MLK Montessori partners with CACFP (Child and Adult Care Food Program) to provide nutritious meals and offers door-to-door transportation for its students.
“We are committed to fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and academically enriching environment where every child can thrive,” said Kia. “The 2025-26 school year will be a time of growth, refinement, and deeper community connections at MLK Montessori. By maintaining a strong focus on student success, family engagement, and operational sustainability, we will continue to fulfill our mission of providing high-quality Montessori education to all children.”
Under Kia’s leadership, MLK Montessori School remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering students and honoring Dr. King’s vision of equal education for all.
Myrna Cruz, MLKMS Assistant Head of School
mcruz@mlkdreamschool.org
Since joining MLK Montessori in 2022, Myrna has served as both a Lead Teacher and Executive Assistant, demonstrating unwavering dedication to the school community. Her leadership, warmth, and ability to lead with compassion and strength made her a natural choice for this expanded role.
“Throughout this season of transition, Myrna has been a steady and reliable presence,” said Kia Gates-Smith, Head of School. “She’s been by my side every step of the way—always willing to step in, no matter the task. Her professionalism, positivity, and commitment to our mission are unmatched.”
In her new position, Myrna will support the school’s educational operations, help oversee licensing and accreditation processes, and continue to strengthen student and family engagement. She will also work closely with faculty and staff to ensure a nurturing, high-quality Montessori environment for every child.
“What I value most about Myrna is her ability to balance leadership with collaboration,” Gates-Smith added. “She offers perspective that is honest and solution-oriented. Every leader benefits from having a strong second—someone who brings balance, support, and integrity. Myrna has been that person for me, and I know she’ll be a tremendous resource for our entire community.”
Myrna holds an Associate Early Childhood Credential from the Orlando Montessori Teacher Education Institute and has led classrooms at Montessori schools in both Florida and Indiana. Her long-standing belief in the power of child-led learning, combined with her practical experience and strong communication skills, makes her a key asset to the future of MLK Montessori.
Board of Directors
Lon Bohnke
University of St. Francis, Retired Professor
Paul Ricketts
Educator, Retired
Irina Beltran HR Coordinator Latham Pool Products
Robert Stamper, President
Marcus Neal, Treasurer
Clarios Plant Controller
Nanci Murray, Secretary
Clarios Supply Chain Manager
MLK Montessori was established in response to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Three Fort Wayne women —Dottie Fitchey, Dorothy Holt, and Mary Hoban — had a vision to transform the tragic event into something positive for our community. Dr. King believed in equal education for all children, regardless of their economic background or skin color, and these women continued Dr. King's dream by opening MLK Montessori.
The school began in a single classroom donated by St. Mary's Catholic Church and served 18 children. After remaining at this location for many years, in October 2003, the Lincoln Foundation donated the Great Beginning Daycare building on Lewis Street to MLK Montessori, where the school operated until the building was sold to make way for Parkview Field. In August 2007, MLK Montessori moved to leased classrooms at Village Elementary School. Two years later, in August 2009, the school achieved location permanence when it moved to its new home at 6001 South Anthony, which was purchased with funds from the sale of the Lewis Street facility. MLK Montessori now has the capacity to serve 100 children, and, over the years, the school has graduated more than 5,000 students.
If you would like to help us further our mission to enrich every child’s growth, development and dreams through a Montessori preschool education that is accessible to all children no matter their circumstance, please consider making a donation:
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