Staff Bios
I have been in education in various capacities for the past 22 years and have been fortunate to work with students throughout the entire educational spectrum. I’ve taught Masters level courses in Education, created and taught a credit recovery program for High School students as well as mentoring students who were not on track to graduate to help them not only graduate on time but also move into a secondary education. I taught 6th, 7th and 8th grade, worked as a High School Counselor, Middle School Counselor and ultimately moved into Administration.
I have been involved in a number of educational reform initiatives where I’ve led a school district through the process of implementing Portfolio Based Learning. I've developed a curriculum for my school district and presented at national conferences about the building blocks for learning and how to evaluate all levels of learners.
It is especially rewarding to be at The Montessori Academy of Colorado. Because the Montessori method focuses on indirect preparation, each child is in a process of learning something that is indirectly preparing him to learn something else. This makes education a joyful discovery and creates the solid foundation for learning at all other stages of a child’s life.
There is a particular magic at the MAC because of our dedicated staff, fantastic community, and exceptional students. This is a school started by parents who wanted to provide the best learning experience for their children and while it has grown significantly the mission and fundamental practices at the school revolve around preparing children who are empowered and love to learn.
“Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.”
I have this quote from Theodore Roosevelt near my desk. This sentiment is at the core of why I choose education as my career. I find each day to be an opportunity to engage in the most important work of developing life long learners.
< show lessI have worked at MAC since 2004. I have a certification from AMI 3-6 years old and hold an ECE Director’s Certificate.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
I enjoy gardening, cooking and baking as well as music, attending the Farmer’s market and art and architecture.
My inspiration comes from my mom. She is my model for strength and intelligence.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
I work in Montessori because this is the only spiritual philosophy that completely resonates and makes sense for me.
< show lessI received a Bachelor's of Science in Human Development and Family Studies, with an emphasis in Adolescence, from Colorado State University. After graduating, I was a group living counselor for at-risk adolescent girls for six years. A spontaneous move to Jackson Hole, WY resulted in me taking a completely different direction, managing a small sheepskin coat company for the next five years. After returning to Colorado, I knew I needed a change and found myself drawn to working around people again. I was thrilled to find this position here at MAC in May of 2010. I believe this job is the perfect combination of my education and previous work experience.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
Family and friends have always been the rock in my life. I have friends that have been in my life for more than 30 years and as we have experienced the trials and tribulations of life together, our bonds have only continued to grow stronger. With these amazing people, I love traveling, trying new restaurants, cooking dinner, going to concerts, tubing and camping.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes, classroom stories, etc.
I wish I was able to spend more time with the children in the classrooms but I often hear that I have the best job in the school. It is so much fun being at the front desk and watching the children arrive with such enthusiasm each morning. Although I still have a lot to learn about Montessori, I can tell that it is an amazing method of teaching and believe it will be a part of my life forever.
< show lessI’m originally from Milwaukee, WI, and attended University of WI-Madison for my undergrad in Child and Family Studies, emphasis Pk-3. I moved to Boulder in ‘98, where I taught Preschool at both the Infant and Toddler levels, as well as working in a health club and doing lots of nannying. During my time in Boulder, I obtained my Masters Degree from CU, in Instruction and Curriculum, emphasis Elementary. After six years in Boulder, I moved to Denver, and taught first grade for Adams 14. In 2006, I moved to Hawaii for a year, and then Santa Barbara, CA, for two, where I was the Director of Admissions at a Montessori school that served children 18 months-6th grade. In August of ‘09, I (finally) made it back to Colorado, where I intend on staying, and in August of ’10, I joined the team at MAC.
Personal Info - hobbies, interests, inspirations
I love to travel (perhaps that’s obvious,) volunteer, read, practice yoga, and am slowly but surely teaching myself how to cook. I also own a small business, AlexOrganize, LLC, which provides hands-on organizing for both personal and professional settings. I draw inspiration from each and every person I meet; everybody has a story to tell.
Montessori Moment - favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
Although I had exposure to Montessori during my undergrad student teaching, it wasn’t until the Director of Admissions position in Santa Barbara that I really “drank the kool aid.” Giving informational tours to the public deepened my understanding and appreciation for the Montessori philosophy and methodology, and I know for sure that going forward, any work I do in the field of education will be Montessori based. It just makes good sense.
< show lessToddler Community
I began working at MAC in June 2005. I started as a Toddler assistant and then worked as a Nido Lead before moving into my current position as the TC 2 Lead. I have a certificate from the Montessori Institute of Denver – AMI Assistants to Infancy (0-3), June 2008 as well as becoming Director qualified through the Montessori Institute of Denver. I graduated with a Bachelors degree in Communications from Point Loma Nazarene University in 2003.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
When I am not furthering my knowledge of the Montessori philosophy and applying it to my work at MAC, I enjoy the performing arts, especially Polynesian Dancing, music, photography, crafts, yoga and snowboarding. I am very much inspired by my husband, Adam and my daughter, Kaya as well as the children I have worked with and continue to work with here at MAC.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
As an educator and advocate for children, I believe every child is born with capabilities that most people overlook because they are small and therefore seem helpless. In fact, when provided with an enriched, loving and prepared environment and the opportunities for growth and independence, these potentialities will manifest spiritually, physically, mentally and emotionally in the child. My goal as a Montessori teacher is to adhere to the philosophy and use it to help bring these potentialities to the surface. This starts at birth. There is nothing more fulfilling than witnessing this development first hand when you have allowed for this to unravel on its own. It is truly one of the most beautiful things to experience.
Favorite Quote:
“We are here to offer to this life, which came into the world by itself, the means necessary for its development, and having done that we must await this development with respect.” - Maria Montessori
< show lessI began working at MAC in November of 2006. I am in the process of receiving my certificate from the Montessori Institute. I currently hold an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice from Kaplan College and in the future I would love to get a bachelors in psychology.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
I enjoy spending time with my kids. My son is 4 and my daughter is 2, both attend school here. I also enjoy reading, sewing and crafts.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
“It is never enough for the teacher to love the child. She must first love and understand the universe. She must prepare herself and truly work at it.”
< show lessI started working at MAC in June of 2007. I attended Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado from 1999-2001. In 2004, I attended the Montessori Institute of Denver – Association Montessori International and received a certification Assistants, Birth to Three Years Old. I have 2 refresher courses and have attended a NAMTA conference.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
Both living in the moment and appreciating the mystery of life give me a great sense of joy. I do love music, concerts, traveling, cooking, reading and spending time with my incredible family.
So much in life inspires me. What has been my greatest form of inspiration has been my family. My younger brother was born with significant disabilities, both cognitive and physical. I find inspiration in my brother, who lives life to the fullest and always finds happiness in his world. I find inspiration in my parents, who have infinite amounts of patience and unconditional love. And I find inspiration in myself, for sometimes having to rearrange my world in order to make my brother’s world better.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
I hope to live to see the philosophy of Montessori become the traditional form of education rather than how it is defined now as “alternative education.”
Through my 8 years of work in the field, I have never once doubted the philosophy. When executed with authenticity, Montessori creates an environment suited for each individual child, the whole child. By meeting the needs of the whole child we in turn meet the needs of the whole world.
< show lessI started here at MAC in August of 2002. I have worked in Montessori for the last 13 years. Previously, I worked at Montessori on the Mall, where I began my first training through Montessori Mid-America. I took an additional training through MECR (Montessori Education of the Rockies).
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
I have two adorable children. My daughter is 13 and my son is 5. My hobbies are spending time with my family, going to my children’s basketball and football games. Swimming and enjoying life as a mother.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes, classroom stories, etc.
I love when the children begin to use words. I love how they call me Ms. MaToya as if they are running the names together. As many times as I remind them it is LaToya, I think they can only process it as MaToya. It’s adorable.
< show lessI have a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Colorado. I started here at MAC in August of 2008.
< show lessNido
After figuring out my path in college, I felt drawn to children. I continued my education at Red Rocks Community College and received my Associate’s degree. I also have my group leader qualification and my director center certification. As I discovered, the Montessori method was the only way I could see myself helping children develop into their own individual being, I was hired as Toddler assistant in 2004 at MAC. In 2006, I received my Montessori certification and became a lead in a Toddler room for a few years and have been the Directeress in Nido 3 since 2009.
In 2009, I decided I needed to go in a different direction and received my Medical Assistant certification and worked in a doctor’s office for about a year, but I soon found myself back at MAC as a Nido Directress where I continue to love the children, families and staff of MAC.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
I enjoy the outdoors, movies and painting. I find myself continually learning. I enjoy extreme sports even though initially I seem to be afraid. I’ve tried sky diving, spelunking, zip lining and parasailing. Next I would love to try hang-gliding and rock climbing. Friends and family have always been important to me and I cherish the time I am able to spend with them.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
Favorite quote:
“He learns everything without knowing he is learning it, and in doing so he passes little by little from the unconscious to conscious treading always in the path of joy and love.”
The Absorbent Mind, Cilo, 1988 p.24
< show lessI earned a Bachelors degree with honors from the University of Rochester and am certified from the Montessori Institute of Colorado in 0-3 years. I have been a Nido lead at MAC since October 2009, but was previously held the position of Toddler lead at Webster Montessori. I worked as a nanny for 3 years previously, as well as a tutor and did after school care at the YMCA.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
I enjoy taking walks and riding bikes as well as hiking and swimming. I also enjoy sewing, knitting, and collecting stamps. Some of my main interests include reading about world religions and modes of prayer and I am studying Spanish. I am inspired by children, my work teammates as well as my brothers and sisters. I am inspired through music and dance as well as past books I have read and traveling.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
As a Toddler lead, one child asked me where my bed was (at the school.)
When the children I took care of as a nanny were over at my home for a visit, the little boy pointed to my bedroom and asked, “Dana, is that your crib?”
When explaining to children while babysitting that I live in an apartment and that I don’t have a backyard to play in, the children promptly suggested to their mom and dad that I move in.
< show lessI have a Bachelor’s of Science in Human Development and Family Studies with an emphasis on Infancy and Childhood from Colorado State University. I have worked at MAC since the fall of 2010 and previously worked in childcare settings as well as an Early Head Start program through Catholic Charities.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
Being outdoors brings me peace. I love snowboarding and cooking is my therapy. I love spending time with the people I love.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
I work with children because it truly fulfills my heart as I am providing them with nurturance, guidance and care through kindness, love and experience everyday.
When people ask why Montessori, I say, every child is unique and learns differently and the Montessori environment provides children the opportunity to learn in their own unique way and as a teacher I can be their guide.
< show lessI will be the Interim Lead for Nido 1 till December 2011.
< show lessPrimary
I started at MAC in August of 2007 and have 15 + years of ECE experience. I am certified from AMI Montessori ages 3-6 and 0-3. I have a Masters in Education (Montessori) as well as a Bachelors in Sociology.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
I love the Montessori method as it instills pride in children and enables them to believe in themselves. It helps them discover what their interests are, fosters independence and is a process where children learn to love to learn! Witnessing the growth in each and every child during the three year cycle from a social, emotional, intellectual and spiritual level makes this a very rewarding profession!
I enjoy yoga, skiing, hiking, nutrition and travel.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
Favorite Maria Montessori Quotes:
“The greatest sign of success for a teacher…is to be able to say, “The children are now working as if I did not exist…”
“The hand is the instrument to the mind.”
“Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed.”
< show lessI graduated college with a B.A. in Humanities, emphasis in ESL methodologies for young children and completed two different Montessori Primary credential programs.
This will be my sixth year guiding a Montessori Primary group.
I was originally drawn to Montessori because of the emphasis on exploration of the world as well as lessons in respect for the community of life.
I believe that it is not enough just to learn about this world, children need to discover positive ways to share it with others while ensuring it is here for future generations.
One of my favorite parts of the Montessori Method is the confidence it instills in children through the hands on approach to the core academic curriculum. Seeing the light in a child's eyes as they finally solve that subtraction equation or decode their first word is an experience that can't be matched. I see children as whole, capable beings with an intrinsic motivation to learn and construct knowledge from the environment around them. I believe it is the teacher's role to facilitate and guide in this growth process rather than decide and lead. I also bring a love of observation and documentation to the Primaria Acqua Room. Reflection of living experience is essential for children to make connections between concrete and abstract forms of knowledge.
Outside of my preschool life I enjoy traveling, hiking, exploring cities, cooking with my family, and reading anything and everything.
< show lessI began working at MAC in October of 2006. I moved to Europe from Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin in 1976 where I finished my education in Bergen, Norway at Anton Johannesens and I completed a competitive program in Business and Computing. I received my AMS Associate Early Childhood Credential from the Montessori Education Center of the Rockies in Boulder, Colorado in 2006.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
I have had the good fortune of traveling extensively in Europe, India and Nepal. I have also lived in Norway, Ireland, Scotland, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. I believe traveling and experiencing different cultures has given me a wonderful opportunity to honor diverse ways of living and honoring individual processes.
I love to read, be adventurous and travel to new places. Being out in nature hiking, biking, snowshoeing and Zumba are some of my favorites. Going to the mountains on weekends brings me great joy!
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
I was sitting at circle one day and a child called me “Tammy” instead of “Miss Tammy” and another child corrected her. This child said, “No, Tammy is one of us!” Some children still call me Tammy.
Favorite Quote:
“It is necessary, then, to give the child the possibility of developing according to the laws of nature, so that he can become strong, and, having become strong, can do even more than we dared hoped for him.” - Maria Montessori
< show lessI started at MAC in January of 2008. I have worked in Montessori for the past 4 years. Before Montessori, I worked in children’s art programs and play-based pre-schools. I received my Masters in Educational Psychology from the University of Colorado – Denver in 2009. Prior to starting my work in education, I was a freelance artist in Boston and New York.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
I love to cook and have recently become interested in baking as well as making pasta from scratch. My daughter is an equestrian, so I have a newfound passion in horses and riding. Of course, I still make art and aspire to write and publish children’s stories, poems, ideas or whatever comes to mind. I have a deep respect for music as it truly soothes my soul.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
For me, watching the children evolve in their work, become interested and excited in what they are learning, seeing the respect, concern and love they show for each other daily is the foundation and context of all my Montessori moments. For that I am truly grateful.
< show lessAfter achieving my Bachelors Degree in Fine Arts with a focus in sculpture from the University of West Georgia in 2007 I began in a foundry in Georgia. I moved to Colorado in 2009 and that April I began working at MAC. While working under the Nichole Holwitzer I earned my ECE certification from the Community College of Denver.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
I still strive to be active in the arts community by taking part in activities such as a bronze pour at Excelsior Youth Center with Silo Studios. I am ever inspired by the creation and the creator.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes, classroom stories, etc.
“If education is always to be conceived along the same antiquated lines of a mere transmission of knowledge, there is little to be hoped from it in the bettering of man's future.”
I am moved every time I see students taking their work to a higher lever than it was presented to them.
< show lessArt & Music
I began working at MAC in 2005 and have worked in Early Childhood Education since 2002. I began as an assistant here at MAC and worked my way up to a lead position as the Toddler After School Coordinator. In 2009, I accepted the position of Art Director.
At the Rocky Mountain College, I studied Illustration. I studied English and Art History at Metro State Denver.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
I love soccer, tattooing, and laughter. I draw my inspiration from my loving wife and three children. I mix emotions with current events - and living, breathing works of art are created as a result.
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
"We don't make mistakes - we have happy accidents."
- Bob Ross
"I am still learning."
- Leonardo da Vinci, on his deathbed
I graduated from Colorado State University in December of 2002 with a B.A. in Music. I started working at MAC right after graduation in March of 2003 as an assistant in the Nido. One month later, I moved into the Toddler Community where I was an assistant for 2 years. I began leading music groups in the toddler classrooms before officially starting the MAC music program in the Fall of 2004. My private piano instruction program began in the Spring of 2005.
I began studying for a Masters in Music Education with a Kodály Emphasis at Colorado State in 2009 and am Level I Kodály certified to teach the Kodály Method to children from birth through age and also trained to teach the Montessori music curriculum using the Montessori bells.
Personal Info – hobbies, interests, inspirations
I'm married to a wonderful video producer named Tom and we have a little boy who also attends MAC! Besides teaching music, I'm also a professional musician who performs regularly with local celebrity musician, Wendy Woo. I would love if you came out to see a show!
Montessori Moment – favorite quotes from students, anecdotes
Every day is a new adventure. The children teach me so much and have helped me to strive to give them my best every day. It is my goal to use incorporate the Montessori Philosophy into my every day music curriculum to help make the most enriching educational experience possible for every child every week.
< show less