As a Montessori child myself, I believe every child deserves opportunities to grow into a well-rounded individual. I have often wondered which is the greater truth: that Montessori resonated with me because of who I am at my core, or that the person I am today was shaped, in large part, by a lifetime in Montessori environments.
Having begun my Montessori journey at the age of two, I have experienced the Fox Valley Montessori School community through many roles: learner, alum, support staff member, classroom assistant, 3–6 and 6–9 teacher, parent, collaborator, advocate, mentor, consultant, and now Executive Director & Head of School. For more than twenty-five years, I have worked in Montessori environments, primarily at the Primary and lower Elementary levels, serving as both an assistant and lead teacher. I hold a degree in Elementary Education, complemented by two Montessori certifications, which have equipped me to observe and assess each child’s individual needs and provide a balanced range of opportunities for growth and development.
My favorite part of being immersed in a Montessori community is serving as a bridge: connecting learners with their environment, helping parents understand the multifaceted Montessori approach that consistently supports children’s growth, and guiding teachers in the intentional practice of fostering individual discovery. As I walk the hallways of FVMS, I am continually reminded of the importance of these connections. By bridging children’s natural curiosity and observations with their inner potential, we can help them develop a deeper understanding of themselves, discover their individual identities, and realize the possibilities within them.
I am deeply grateful for the support, collaboration, and opportunities for continued growth that come with the responsibility of leading the FVMS community. It is a privilege to serve and to help nurture an environment where every child is empowered to discover who they are and who they may become.