I had the pleasure of meeting with Jere Fernandez to explore what her new musical Montessori preschool had to offer. The warm welcome I received as I walked in the door made me feel right at home!
My first impression of Elite was the cleanliness and care put into each little detail. For a preschool in the works, everything was set in place, with plans to add the final touches in the weeks leading up to the grand opening on September 5th.
Each classroom has similar components: a music theme and plenty of dramatic play for each appropriate age group. The infant building was designed with problem solving in mind, allowing babies to work on the basic fundamental skills needed for healthy growth and development into their toddler years.
When speaking with Jere, she mentioned the lower-than-state-regulated student-teacher ratios, and the even smaller musical instruction time ratios. During free-play activities, music instructors will pull two to three children for a personalized lesson in the instruments they are practicing with.
Elite Academy: Music Montessori had its grand opening this past Tuesday, so get to know Jere and a bit about the new preschool in north Lakeway.
1. Tell us a little bit about you
My name is Jere Fernandez. I’m origionally from Houston, Texas. I was born to southern country people. My mother’s family are from Onalaska, Texas and my father’s family is from Oppaloosa, Louisiana. My background and education is in the arts. I’ve been singing since I was 2 years old and my first piano lesson was at the age of 5. My family has always been a champion of education and very supportive of my participation in the arts.
2. How long have you been a mom and what is your favorite part about it?
I’ve been a mom for 2 years. I honestly love getting to know my child and watch her discover her own interests and new things.
3. Tell us about your business
I started Elite because I wanted to further my career in the Arts. I was a musical theatre actress and I needed part-time work that would allow time for voice lessons and auditions. I answered an ad for an after school music teacher and the Director said they only worked with business owners and that I needed a DBA. I called my mom and asked her to drive me to the county clerks office. After sitting at the office for 30 minutes and filling out a form, Elite Music & Fine Arts was born.
4. Why do you feel you stand out in the community?
We offer a Music Montessori program. We follow the Maria Montessori Method as well as provide music sessions twice a day.
5. Do you have any big plans for
your business or the community?
We open Tuesday, September 5, 2023. We plan to offer weekly Mommy and Me music classes as well.
6. How do you plan to give back to the community?
We plan on partnering with local area vendors for our after school program as well as our monthly school events.
