Ecole Claire Fontaine’s Founding Story
Madame Joëlle Dumas (1949-2022) founded and directed Ecole Claire Fontaine beginning in 1989 near the Pacific Ocean in Venice, California. Her work lives on cultivating a place of magic for children where their expressions, voices and curiosity are honored, transforming them into richer human beings for the betterment of the world.
In addition to introducing visionary education methods to teachers and children in the verdant gardens of three Venice Art, Language & Nature school campuses, she was highly decorated by the French government and was awarded the prestigious title of Chevalier of the “Palmes Academiques” as an exceptional educator and community leader.
Her work has moved forward creative, respectful and joyful teaching of children and the development of Mr. Abbot Kinney’s vision for Venice as a mecca of art, culture and education. She was awarded the Legendary Women Artists of Venice and the Spirit of Venice awards.
Mme. Dumas was also lauded for bridging culture and education between France and the U.S., and was Executive Director of Cultural Affairs for “Movement of French Abroad.” Furthering Franco-American cultural understanding, she worked cooperatively with the French Consulate, Alliance Française and Los Angeles Accueil.
By chairing the VCC Education Committee, Mme. Dumas expanded her commitment to ensuring that a meaningful education is available to all children with programs that support teachers such as the WAVE Awards, and by acting as an architect of bridges between the business and education communities.
Prior to leading the VCCEC in 2010, she was chair and board member of the Chamber of Commerce and Venice Neighborhood Council. She also took part in research with the Getty Museum, UCLA and the Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Sciences Sociales.
Before moving to the U.S. 30 years ago, Mme. Dumas earned a teaching degree from the University of Bordeaux, taught at the Chantemerle International Institution, owned and operated a construction company, and tutored children in Latin and Chemistry.
Fluent in English, French and Spanish, the trajectory of Mme. Dumas’ career lives on as one of passionate movement that continues changing the world by promoting the presence of children, honoring their innate wisdom and furthering their happiness.
Venice Paparazzi’s Favorite French Girl and www.joelledumas.com offer more details on Joëlle’s beautiful life and contributions to the community.
Ecole Claire Fontaine’s Director, Gwendoline Pere-Lahaille
Gwendoline Pere-Lahaille serves as the Director of Ecole Claire Fontaine, continuing the legacy of her mother, Joëlle Dumas, who founded the school over thirty years ago. Raised alongside ECF’s creative and bilingual environment, Gwendoline brings a lifelong understanding of the school’s philosophy and values. Under her direction, ECF continues to thrive as a nurturing space where art, language, and nature guide each child’s growth.
Ecole Claire Fontaine’s Faculty
ECF brings together a beautiful ensemble of multi-lingual teachers, artists, cooks, scientists, and musicians to provide the children with a unique and loving environment in which to grow. Detailed teacher profiles will be available very soon.