Learn and Play® Montessori Hercules School

Reviews

• AH

  Amanda Harris

  Oct 27, 2026
  1.0
  If you’re thinking about sending your child to learn and play Montessori in Hercules, California, think again this place is for no child. The staff is disgraceful, rude and very unprofessional. I am disappointed with my experience at this school. As a parent, I expect a school to provide a safe, supportive, and positive learning environment where children feel valued, listened to, and encouraged to succeed. I RECEIVED THE TOTAL OPPOSITE, “LIZETTE” IS THE MOST UNPROFESSIONAL, RUDE, AND UNFRIENDLY CENTER DIRECTOR I’VE EVER ENCOUNTERED WITH LIZETTE GOT “PHYSICAL” WITH MY CHILD AND GRAB HER ARMS INAPPROPRIATELY DISMISSING ME AND TRIED TELLING ME THAT I DID NOT SEE WHAT I SAW. WHEN I BROUGHT IT TO HER ATTENTION. SHE DENIED IT AND CLAIMED SHE WASN’T EVEN AT WORK THAT DAY. When I requested to see the video, the video was so blurry to the point i couldn’t see anything and I honestly believe it was altered, the video was only two seconds involving the physical altercation with my child with LIZETTE. CINDY her teacher stood there and did nothing. She was always unpleasant and very very unprofessional, her mannerism was so unprofessional, she looked as if she never even wanted to be at work and she ignored my child every chance she got and never encounter with my daughter. When I brought this incident to THE AREA MANAGER MANJURI SHE COMPLETELY IGNORED ME, DISMISSED ME, AND TOLD ME THEY’VE BEEN IN BUSINESS FOR 13 YEARS AS IF WHAT I HAD TO SAY DIDN’T MATTER. Unfortunately, our experience has not met these expectations. I have concerns about the communication between the school and there professionalism. I honestly believe, I was profiled, and that was the reason why my situation was not taken seriously. As a parent I should feel confident that my concerns about my child are taken seriously and that my child well-being and education are a priority. “LIZETTE IS A AWFUL HUMAN BEING.” VERY UNPROFESSIONAL, RUDE SNAPPY AND VERY DISMISSIVE. I’M SAYING THIS TO BRING AWARE TO THE NEXT FAMILY, CONSIDERING SENDING THEIR CHILD TO THIS LOCATION TO THINK 2 TO 3 TIMES BEFORE SENDING YOUR CHILD HERE TO MONTESSORI HERCULES. I feel there are several areas that need significant improvement, and the school has not met the expectations as a parent wanting good communication, understanding, and genuine concern for students should be a priority, and I do not feel these expectations have been met. Overall, I am unhappy with the school and would encourage other parents to do their research carefully before making a decision about enrolling their children. I sincerely hope the school takes parents’ feedback seriously and makes meaningful improvements without having to get physical (LIZETTE) with a 3 year old toddler child.
• UT

  Ujjwal Thapa

  Aug 13, 2026
  5.0
  Our son spent his preschool years at Learn and Play Montessori, and we just watched him walk away in a cap and gown! That moment says everything. When he started, he wouldn't let go of my hand at drop-off. By the end, he was running through the door before I could finish saying goodbye. That change didn't happen by accident. It happened because the teachers here are patient, consistent, and actually know each child. If you're touring preschools in the area, put this one on your list.
• BM

  Brenda Mayary

  Aug 7, 2026
  5.0
  I highly recommend Learn and Play Montessori in Hercules. I've had a wonderful experience with my son Sebastian. The director, Miss Lizzet, and her entire staff are highly prepared for any teaching situation and with the different classes they offer. My son has improved a lot in his learning and in how he manages his emotions, since they not only teach but also take the time to explain. I'm very happy with my experience and all the teachers.
• JF

  Jennalyn Fernando

  Jun 25, 2026
  1.0
  My daughter attended LAPMS for almost 2 years, and this is my updated review based on my experience. If you are considering this school, ask yourself these questions: 1. Are you okay with minimal communication? 2. Do you have the time and energy to do your own documentation for incidents involving your child? 3. Are you okay with paying additional fees for dropping off your child 5 minutes early and/or picking up less than 5 minutes late? 4. Is quantity more important than quality? 5. Will you appreciate dealing with a rude and unprofessional site director (Lizette)? 6. Do you like leaving your child with undervalued and unhappy teachers? 7. Would you be okay with other children having "behavioral reports" on record, despite the site director's son's consistent behavioral issues being ignored? 8. Do you appreciate escalating an issue to the site director's boss, only to have it swept under the rug because the two have each other's backs? 9. Do you don't think high turnover of teachers and staff is normal? 10. Are you okay with no transparency and accountability? If you answered "yes" to any or all of the questions above, then this school will be the perfect fit for you and your child! Good luck. Note that if you do have any issues you want to report, it is nearly impossible to find contact information for the appropriate person. It will take some investigative work, so prepare yourself. Again, good luck!
• SB

  Sudina Basnet

  Sep 4, 2025
  5.0
  We’ve had a truly positive experience at this campus. Our daughter looks forward to going every day, which says so much about the caring staff and the nurturing environment. The teachers are warm, attentive, and genuinely understand how to support each child’s unique learning style. The classroom is peaceful, welcoming, and well-organized, and the school has always maintained clear and supportive communication with us. Our daughter used to cry frequently at her previous school, but from the very first day here, she felt comfortable and has never looked back — that alone speaks volumes. She absolutely adores her teacher, Miss Sehar. We’re so grateful to have found a place where she feels safe, happy, and eager to learn. Highly recommend to any parents exploring a Montessori education.