How did you discover Montessori?

After working in public education for a number of years, I was looking for a better alternative.  I knew nothing about Montessori before interviewing as a guide at WSM a few years ago.  Once I started to learn more about the teaching/learning methods and pedagogy of Montessori, I felt more and more like it was the correct way for students to learn.

What do you love about working at a Montessori school?

The freedom to actually learn.  Everyone learns at a different pace and in different ways.  The ability to more freely explore those different methods and the ability to actually experience the journey from questions to understanding is vital.

What about WSM attracted you to the school?

The staff are extremely helpful and friendly. The parents are involved with their children’s learning process and growth. The campus is amazing.  

What are your credentials?

As a teacher, I graduated from East Carolina University in 2012 and I am fully licensed to teach math and science in North Carolina for grades 6 through 12.  I have taught in public schools for 12 years and covered all grades (6-12) and all math and science courses offered.  I taught physics and statistics in Suzhou, China for a summer.  As a Montessori guide I worked in the AP program at WSM as the lead Math/Occupations guide for 18 months.  I have attended the Montessori training as well.  As the new Director of IT I bring nearly 20 years of internet technology experience including server setup, software development, and system troubleshooting.  I have degrees from ECPI in computer technology and MIT in machine learning and data analysis. I am also CompTIA ITF+ certified.