My first exposure to a Montessori classroom was magical. I observed young children empowered to pursue their unique interests in a rich environment of discovery and joy. I knew I wanted to be a part of it. I had just finished my bachelor’s degree in English and anthropology, and I became an assistant in that very classroom. That was more than 20 years ago, and it is one of my happiest life decisions.
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Since 2002, I have taught as a lead and team teacher at several Denver schools. I have worked as an instructor at the Montessori Education Center of the Rockies (MECR) since 2015, where I also conduct workshops on science and language curriculum and classroom management. I have also worked as a kindergarten teacher.
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I met Melody Patton when she taught my own child, and I was experiencing parenthood for the first time. I felt secure knowing the type of environment that would surround my daughter – not just physically, but emotionally, intellectually, and socially. A few years later I had the opportunity to co-teach with Melody and experience personally her authentic respect and genuine thoughtfulness for each child in her care. When she opened her own school, I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
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Before moving to Denver when I was 10, I lived in Malaysia and Brazil. My hobbies include gardening and playing guitar. My whole family loves to sing, and sometimes it feels like we are living in a musical.
Vida West
Quality Standards and Curriculum Coordinator