Dedicated support staff integrate Montessori philosophy with professional expertise to create a peaceful, enthusiastic learning environment.
Faculty & Staff
A willingness to serve is the overwhelming energy motivating our support staff. As believers in a model Montessori community, each individual is committed to maintaining the Montessori philosophy of respect for the individual as well as the group as we manage responsibilities and tasks. Balancing this philosophical practice with a high level of skill and knowledge allows the school to operate smoothly in a positive, enthusiastic and peaceful atmosphere.
Claudia Diaz, Records & Communications Coordinator
Lorna Rochman-McEntire, Coordinator of Student Services & Education Specialist
Courtney Spears, Business Coordinator
Administrative & Supporting Staff
BEFORE SCHOOL CARE, AFTER SCHOOL CARE, SCHOOL BREAK CAMPS
Jean Hicks, Expanded Learning Coordinator
Club Montessori & Expanded Learning
Guides
Primary: TK/K
Yoli Sheridan Copper Creek
Emma Thompson Ellis Creek
Lower Elementary: 1st, 2nd, 3rd
Deanna Peake San Lorenzo
Lisa Hartman Kaweah
Emily Miyano Tuolumne
Upper Elementary: 4th, 5th, 6th
Luke Snyder Yuba
Carolyn Duffy + Corie Heron Guadalupe
Executive Director & Superintendent
Kelly Griffith Mannion
Kelly has been involved in Montessori education for over thirty-five years. Teaching credentials at the Montessori Primary and Elementary levels and a certification in administration are grounded in a Bachelor degree in Psychology and a Masters in Education. Kelly has extensive experience with teaching, teacher-training, and administration and has been trained in myriad educational programs. With an additional background and certifications in the business world, she is uniquely suited for bridging the gaps between education and industry and has worked as a consultant to parents, teachers, schools, and companies serving our local and national Montessori and education communities.
After founding a non-profit Montessori training center, Kelly moved on to creating a family and she, and her husband of 30 years, have two children through which to see Montessori and the world anew everyday as Montessori parents. This deepened a heartfelt commitment to establishing authentic public and diversely-populated Montessori programs as it is the larger picture of creating options and hope for all children that is most appealing. A staunch believer in the Montessori practice of education for peace, Kelly maintains that if we provide an opportunity for all children to fulfill their individual potential, then respect for self, others, and the environment will naturally follow. This respect ensures a high level of personal satisfaction and the strong sense of community and global responsibility so necessary for peace.
