Teachers
Each pre-primary classroom has at least one certified Montessori teacher and one trained assistant. Each teacher brings a unique talent set, with specialties in Spanish, American Sign Language, health and nutrition, physical education and fine arts. Guest speakers and events are frequently integrated into the day, further expanding the knowledge and experience for the children.
The teacher’s goal is to stimulate the child’s spirit and imagination, to support the child’s self-esteem and natural desire for autonomy, to foster the development of ethical characteristics including kindness, respect, and self-discipline, and to guide the child to learn how to observe, question, and explore ideas independently. Below is a brief summary of the teachers at ACG:
Toddler/Beginner
Ms. April: A recent graduate of Texas Woman’s University (B.S. degree with a Texas Teaching Credential in Early Childhood-4th Grade), Ms. April is currently working towards a Master’s degree. She has been with ACG since 2007, as an After School Care Teacher, Assistant Teacher, and substitute. Children are drawn to Ms. April’s enthusiasm, sensitivity and patience, qualities she brings to the toddler/beginner classroom. She loves guiding children towards their own discoveries and being part of their successes.
Ms. Michelle: Ms. Michelle is currently pursuing a college degree and has been with ACG since 2009 in the After School Care program. Children relate to her openness and clarity, which become essential in communicating their feelings. Ms. Michelle is also a passionate soccer player and brings a team building characteristic to the classroom.
Pre-Primary A
Ms. Berta: An American Montessori Society (AMS) certified Lead Teacher, Ms. Berta has contributed greatly to A Child’s Garden during her 27 years with the school. She brings her love of art and nature to the classroom, and delights in the “Ah Ha!” moments of self-discovery by the children. Her vision is to build a strong foundation for the children by nurturing and caring for each one individually, that is, hundreds of children during her almost three decades of dedication to Montessori education.
Ms. Barbara: Ms. Barbara will begin her second year in Montessori education as an Assistant Teacher. She is an energetic team player who loves the individuality of the Montessori methodology. Ms. Barbara encourages each student to experience the joy and fun of learning.
Pre-Primary B
Ms. Ranna: Having earned a B.S. degree and a C.C.C.C. Montessori teaching credential, Ms. Ranna comes to ACG as a Lead Teacher with five years of Montessori experience. Raised as a child with the Montessori Method, she now enjoys teaching children following the Montessori philosophy. Her peaceful nature and patience with the children enable her to bring out and to build the unique character and personality of each child.
Ms. Raquel: Ms. Raquel has been with ACG for two years as an Assistant Teacher. Her patience with the children shows her deep respect for them and the classroom. Ms. Raquel brings an artistic sensitivity to the classroom. Her favorite aspect of the Montessori Method is to encourage and guide the children to work independently and creatively.
Pre-Primary C
Ms. Debi: Ms. Debi, who holds a Contemporary Montessori Education (C.M.E.) teaching credential, has spent 8 of her 26 years in Montessori education at A Child’s Garden. As Lead Teacher, she believes children build self-esteem as they gain independence. Ms. Debi loves history and is a natural storyteller; manners and social skills are an integral part of her teaching. She loves everything about being in the classroom with the children, guiding them to reach their greatest potential.
Ms. Maria: Ms. Maria has been an Assistant Teacher at A Child’s Garden for 14 of her 18 years in Montessori education. Having the advantage of working with several Lead Teachers in various classrooms, she has developed utmost flexibility, patience, and understanding of Montessori through her observation of different teaching techniques. Artistic in nature, Ms. Maria also models exceptional organization and diplomatic skills to the children in the classroom.
Music Teacher
Ms. Susan: Ms. Susan is an accomplished teacher, conducts two orchestras in the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra program, and performs as a freelance violinist in several regional ensembles. She is in demand as an adjudicator and clinician and has guided many students to careers in music performance and education. Children love Ms. Susan’s music class and respond to her creative and inspiring personality.