My Montessori journey began like many others – observing a Montessori classroom. I have always loved children and connected with them through babysitting, working at summer camps, and volunteering for Movement Exchange, an incredible organization that provides accessible and sustainable dance education in under-resourced communities. At Movement Exchange, I used dance, a passion of mine, as a vehicle for social change, working with children in Panama. The experience helped guide me to teaching. As soon as I stepped foot in a Montessori classroom, I felt instantly aligned. The respect for the whole child and individualized curriculum, along with freedom of movement and choice in each classroom, enticed me. I began working as an assistant toddler guide before becoming a lead co-teacher in the toddler community. As I spent more time in the classroom and had the opportunity to take courses and attend more workshops, my eagerness to learn more grew exponentially. I began teaching in an age 3-6 classroom in 2020, and soon after attended Trine University to obtain my Montessori Early Childhood teaching credential through the American Montessori Society. The pedagogy has become much more than how I teach, but how I live my life as well. My boyfriend and I decided to move to Colorado in the summer of 2023 to be closer to the mountains and to be part of a community with opportunities to grow and connect even more. In my free time I enjoy spending time with friends and family, taking walks and going on hikes with my dog, camping, gardening, and doing yoga. I am currently learning how to play the baritone ukulele and exploring rock climbing.