MCC Staff

The role of a guide

The guide’s role in a Montessori environment is to teach and guide by providing the details of procedures and information so the child can practice and internalize these skills. A Montessori guide prepares a well-organized classroom that is equipped with special materials that encourage freedom of movement and choice for all children.

By establishing guidelines for work and behavior, guides show children how to function within the structure of the curriculum and the community. As a result, a pattern of good work habits and a sense of responsibility and cooperation are established in the classroom.

Through daily observation, the guide determines when and if a child needs further instruction and/or support in any given subject. Observation also allows the guide to determine when a child is ready for additional challenges. Furthermore, guides model respect, provide support and assist as peacemakers in order to better understand the child.

Rocio

School Director

My Montessori journey began in the late 90s by chance. I was walking down the street and happened upon a local Montessori school. I visited the classroom and instantly fell in love with what I saw, and I knew I wanted my (then) young child to attend a magical place like that.

Not long after, I wanted to be part of that magic – not just as a parent, but as a guide. Montessori has been the guiding light not only for my professional life but also for my personal way of living. My children are now adults and they continue to practice the many skills they acquired through a Montessori way of living.

I am passionate about guiding each child into their best self while respecting and accepting their individuality, and protecting and nourishing their emotional health. Academics are a bonus that beautifully fall into place when we enrich minds and nourish the spirit.

Melissa

Lead Teacher, Primary Classroom

I have always felt drawn to early childhood education and knew from a young age that this was the path I wanted to follow. I joined MCC in 2021 and was introduced to the Montessori approach. I instantly fell in love. I knew it aligned perfectly with my values as an educator. I now work alongside Ms. Rocio as a Lead Teacher in the Primary classroom. I am deeply grateful for the mentorship and support of my fellow educators who have shaped my growth as a teacher.

As a Montessori Guide, I am dedicated to guiding children with respect, patience and purpose, while also supporting their independence. It is important for us that in our classroom, we foster kindness, collaboration and a sense of belonging. We strive to build meaningful connections with families and have created a wonderful, kind community here at MCC. I am proud to be a part of a school that truly sees, values and honors children.

Evelyn

Lead Teacher, Young Toddler Classroom

I have been with Montessori Children’s Community since 2020. While completing observation hours for my education degree years ago, I discovered the Montessori approach. Rocio welcomed me into the Primary classroom, and on that first visit I felt an immediate connection to the philosophy.

I have since worked in every classroom at MCC, gaining experience with children across all age groups. I now focus on leading the Young Toddler program and supporting the Infant program. I aim to guide children with patience, warmth, and a clear understanding of what they need at this age.

Gianella

Lead Teacher, Infant Classroom

I began working in early childhood education in 2019. I started in the Toddler and Primary classrooms, where I was first introduced to the Montessori approach and quickly grew to love it. With the support of the teachers around me, I discovered how much I enjoyed helping children build confidence and independence.

Since then, I have worked with every age group at MCC, and I now serve as the Lead Infant Teacher. Having spent time in so many different classrooms, I have a strong understanding of each developmental stage and I love being a steady, nurturing presence for the children in the community.

Guide credentials

Each of our guides has been trained by the American Montessori Society teacher training program and assistants have had experience working with young children as well as attended a Paraprofessional Course that covers the basics of the Montessori approach emphasizing philosophy, observation, and the role of the assistant. In addition, our entire staff is involved in continuing professional development throughout the year.

All of our staff members pass a background check and receive required immunizations. All staff members are required to be trained in First Aid, CPR, AED and receive continuous training on topics of Early Childhood Education.