Meet Our Staff
Head of School
Educators
Support Staff
Office Staff
Owner & Head of School
Joined NMS in 2016
MA EEC Director 2 certified
Certificate of Early Education Leadership, Harvard Graduate School of Education
Active member of American Montessori Society
Wheelock College, NECC & NSCC: Early Education
NEMI & Rising Stars: Advanced Assistant Montessori Overview & Infant/Toddler Course
I developed and launched the first Toddler Program at NMS, and purchased the school in June 2019. For 30+ years, I have dedicated my life to early childhood education - as an educator, a daycare owner, and a mother of four. Having seen firsthand how important these formative years are, I wanted to continue the tradition of inspiring children to be self-motivated, independent, and lifelong learners. Owner and Head of School was a natural next step to continue my career of enriching the lives of young people.
Since joining NMS in 2016, NMS has always been and continues to be my “happy place”. However, when not at school I enjoy spending time at the beach, and traveling now that my husband and I are empty nesters. I also enjoy spending time with my family and especially being a “Gigi”!
Assistant Educator
Joined NMS in 2022
Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education and Child Development, University of Maine
I teach because I love working with children and I could not see myself in any other profession than education. I love Montessori because I believe that hands-on learning is so important for children especially from such a young age. I love seeing students make their own discoveries and seeing them get so excited about it.
I have two cats named Lily and Oliver and just adopted a new kitten named Roo. This past summer, I learned how to golf and I really enjoy it. I like to read in my free time and binge-watch crime shows!
Lead Educator
Joined NMS in 2021
Bachelor of Arts in Physics and Astronomy
Montessori teaching certification in 6-9 and 3-6
I enjoy teaching many areas of the classroom, with my favorites being practical life and sensorial. I love watching the child make discoveries! It is so rewarding to teach a child how to use a material, then once they master that skill they can then use it to work on another skill set. I think practical life is a crucial area of development as a child learns the basic approach to problem solving from practical life skills.
I am a mother to two daughters (Cassiopeia and Callisto), three turtles and a goldfish. I enjoy gardening, walking along the beach, camping and hiking. A fun fact about me is that I was awarded the golden shovel award for shoveling through a snow 20 foot deep snow bank by hand!
Assistant Educator
Joined NMS in 2024
AMI Primary Diploma--The Midwest Montessori Institute
AMS Lower Elementary Credential-- Michigan Montessori Teacher Education Center
AMS Infant/Toddler Credential--Center for Montessori Education, New York.
EEC Certifications for Lead Teacher Preschool and Lead Teacher Infant/Toddler
EEC Certification for Director I
I constantly work on becoming more mindful, remaining in the present moment, and allowing myself the space needed to become as aware as possible. This practice dovetails beautifully with Montessori, as my overall child philosophy is also a daily practice of observing the children. I love introducing them to new things; helping them towards achieving independent and self-motivated growth in all areas of their development. My goal is to nurture each child’s natural desire for knowledge, understanding, and respect; and lovingly provide children with tools for learning.
I love music, poetry, and art. I also enjoy nature, walking, bicycling, kayaking, reading, writing, and playing my ukulele. I currently live on Plum Island with my husband and dog.
Assistant Educator
Joined NMS in 2022
Lead Educator
Joined NMS in 2019
BA in English Literature
Studied Montessori Education at NEMTEC
Certified to teach and coach Redirecting Children’s Behavior method
I feel it’s so important for children to believe that their participation matters in the world and makes a difference. Setting up a prepared environment in the Montessori classroom provides children an opportunity to see that their efforts have an effect on the materials as well on their relationships with others. This exposure and practice of effort yielding effect, guides the children to anticipate an outcome or to anticipate what comes next; and if they can anticipate, they can participate. As they grow they will carry that with them for future decision making and problem solving tasks, whether academic, personal or global. Newburyport Montessori School, with its city by the sea location is an inspiration unto itself. Here the children are exposed to such diverse and enchanting experiences, it makes for truly well rounded educational experience.
I love to travel and learn about other cultures and get their perspective on all aspects of life. I have many countries still on my bucket list. I also love hiking and walking the beach with our dog. Lastly, I’m intrigued by watches and clockmaking. I have quite the collection of watches and love to choose among them.
Co-Educator
Joined NMS in 2021
AMS Infant and Toddler Certification, Northeast Montessori Institute
Elementary School Teacher, Brazil
Bachelor of Law, Brazil
A better world is my biggest inspiration for teaching. I completely agree with the logic of Dr. Montessori’s work, that children are the builders of humanity. This belief has guided me to learn more about Dr. Maria Montessori and her pedagogy, and to teach in a Montessori environment.
In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, making crafts, cooking new recipes, and taking nature walks. Time permitting, I love traveling and meeting new people and learning about different cultures in all their plenitude; food, music, customs, dances and stories.
Co-Educator
Joined NMS in 2022
Bachelors Degree in Psychology
Currently enrolled at NECC completing Early Childhood Education Directors Certificate Program
I love working with children and making a difference in their lives. Part of why I chose to work at NMS is that I was very curious about the Montessori philosophy and wanted to incorporate the practices into my son’s life as well as my own.
Outside of school spending quality family time with my husband and son is very important to me, we really enjoy doing outdoor activities together. My husband and I are very involved in our community of Exeter, NH and enjoy giving back. Some of my other favorite hobbies are traveling, skiing, and reading.
Lead Educator
Joined NMS in 2021
Early Childhood Education Program, Northern Essex Community College (currently enrolled)
Completed multiple online training programs in the area of Early Childhood Education
I began as an assistant teacher at NMS a year ago. It has been a highly rewarding and fulfilling experience. I am extremely dedicated to my work with the children and I am ever so grateful to their families for their support and generosity. I look forward to every day at NMS. Nurturing each child's desire for knowledge, with patience understanding and respect has been a daily goal for me. I am so fortunate to be part of a school that is filled with educators, who have the best intentions for their students and their fellow teachers.
I have two children, my son is an 8th-grade English teacher, and my daughter is a Special Education teacher. My two children are my heart and soul. I also enjoy spending time with my family, which includes my parents and siblings. I am an early-to-bed, early-to-rise person. I am at the gym every morning, before work, running on the treadmill. I love to spend time outdoors, in nature as much as possible. Every year, my husband and I go on a tropical vacation, in the winter, which is something on his bucket list. I love to chat and meet new people and try to take life one day at a time.
Assistant Educator
Joined NMS in 2023
BFA - Communication Design - SUNY at Buffalo
EEC-Intro to Child Growth and Development
Rising Stars Montessori Assistant Overview
Being an educator is a privilege, especially considering that our children are our future. I find great fulfillment in contributing to the development of young minds and hearts. Selecting NMS as my workplace was a deliberate choice, influenced by my admiration for the Montessori Method that emphasizes independence and confidence. The dynamic nature of each class and the opportunity for every child to progress at their own pace while pursuing their interests resonates with my teaching philosophy.
I recently moved to Newburyport, from Long Island NY with my husband to be closer to our new baby Granddaughter and family. I love being so close to the Ocean and walking and biking all the local rail trails. I have a passion for photography and all things chocolate! Being so close to all the ice cream shops in Newburyport is wonderful! I am also an avid reader and a member of 2 book clubs.
Lead Educator
Joined NMS in 2003
Associated Degree, Science in Early Education, Northern Essex Community College
Bachelor of Arts, Liberal Studies/Early Childhood Education, with a focus on Sensory Processing Disorders, from Lesley University
Primary Certification, Northeast Montessori Institute
When completing observations as part of my degree program, I observed NMS, and felt a connection with the environment and methodology. I have stayed at NMS for so long because we foster the love of learning, independence, curiosity, and mindfulness in the children’s learning.
As educators, we can and will follow the child’s lead in learning. It is very important to me to be teaching in an environment where you meet and follow the children where they are. When a child feels safe and loved, the learning will begin and flourish. There is no greater enjoyment for me as an educator than hearing a child say proudly “I did it!” or “I love you!”
In my personal life outside of NMS I am a proud Nana who loves spending time with my granddaughter. My favorite activities to do with my granddaughter are baking, reading, and playing in the snow together. I enjoy camping and taking long walks on the beach during the summer months with my husband Ken. My favorite activity with my three adult children is training at the Shinobi Science Martial Arts.
Assistant Educator
Joined NMS in 2019
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Emerson College
Montessori Assistant Teacher Course, Cambridge Montessori Institute
Child Growth & Development Course, Northern Essex Community College
Both of my children attended NMS for preschool and had wonderful experiences. I knew some teachers and the founder/owner from my early days being involved in the local arts and was gratefully welcomed into the NMS community. When my youngest child started full-time school, I began filling in at NMS and continued to grow my time here the last few years. As a stay-at-home mom for many years, watching children interact, grow, and explore their passions became my favorite activity. Having worked with Theater in the Open as a teenager, I experienced the value of people of all ages working together, where children were respected and never underestimated, and I always carried those values with me. I appreciate the respect and peace ingrained in the Montessori classroom and specifically here within the NMS community.
I live by the marsh in Byfield with my partner and our combined four children, a 20 yr old formerly-feral cat, and a special-needs house rabbit. I grew up in Merrimac by the river and love the natural beauty our area has to offer. Aside from having a sore face from the non-stop smiling that happens when I'm spending time at NMS, I enjoy connecting with my family and friends, yoga, paddle boarding, camping, and making vegetable-heavy soups. I started learning to ski last winter, raised and released 26 monarchs so far this summer, and I'm hoping to begin honing my ax-throwing skills in the near future.
Co-Educator
Joined NMS in 2021
Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education, Norwalk Community College
Currently Enrolled for full Montessori Certification, The Center for Guided Montessori Studies
Finding ways to spark children's love of learning is my passion. My goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where children feel loved and have the freedom to explore, learn, and grow. I am committed to providing a high-quality education tailored to each student's needs, so they are able to bring out the best version of themselves. I have had a wonderful experience teaching at NMS and love the community. I have fallen in love with the Montessori philosophy, and it is an honor to be a part of helping children develop into confident, independent learners. I am fluent in Spanish and have some French, and I love to integrate my culture with the children every opportunity I can.
I live in Newbury with my husband, two children, and our two pets; a golden retriever named "Bella" and a Maine Coon named "Beast." My hobbies include going to the beach, taking day trips, hosting friends and family, catching a Celtics game, and most importantly, spending quality time with my loved ones. Some fun facts about me are that I have 35 first cousins, and I have a unique way of spelling my name - "Jeamy" - pronounced Jaimie. I was born in Guatemala, and my mother loved the American name "Jaimie" but didn't know how to phonetically spell it. She tried her best, and that's how my unique spelling came about! Some things I can’t pass up are sushi, a spicy margarita, ice cream, lattes, and a cozy warm blanket! Many do not know, but one of my secret talents is having a keen eye for home design and decor!
Co-Educator
Joined NMS in 2024
Co-Educator
Joined NMS in 2022
MA DESE-Professional Vocational Technical Educator License with SEI Endorsement
Currently enrolled at Fitchburg State University completing B.S. in Occupational Vocational Education
Currently enrolled at NECC completing Early Childhood Education Directors Certificate Program
I teach because I love children, It is really that simple. I like Montessori because of the focus on teaching life skills and fostering an independent spirit in children. NMS is special because of the wonderful teachers, staff, students and families who make up our school community.
I live in Newburyport with my husband, Matt and my son, John. I begin each morning with weight training and walking or riding my bike around town. I spend my weekends relaxing at home or traveling to Boston or Worcester to spend time with family.
Lead Educator
Joined NMS in 2021
Bachelor of Science in Inclusive Elementary and Special Education, Syracuse University
AMS Infant and Toddler Certification, Northeast Montessori Institute
I've found my place in the world to nourish the lives of children. As Montessori educators, we are committed to providing a loving, caring, supportive, and peaceful environment for the children to be and become the best versions of themselves for a better world. The Montessori Method instills a sense of peacefulness within each child, which forms a foundation for life. I love how Montessori education encourages us to do our best, be kind, and lead with a loving heart.
I am particularly passionate about the field of mindfulness. I've taken several courses through the Mindful Schools organization and I've received my yoga teacher certification. Meditation and yoga practices provide me with much love and support in my daily life. I love sharing this passion and these practices with others.
Assistant Educator
Currently enrolled at Northern Essex Community College completing Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education
My favorite thing about teaching is seeing how the children interact with one another, and also seeing them grow and develop. I love teaching at NMS because of our wonderful and supportive school community.
Outside of NMS, I love to hangout with my friends and family. I often spend my weekends, cheering on my 3 siblings at their sporting events. I also love a good sunset drive, ski trip or just spending some quality quiet time.
Co-Educator
Joined NMS in 2022
Masters in Early Childhood Education
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies
SEI Endorsement, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
I became inspired to be a teacher after working with my mother who is an occupational therapist. I would often help out in the summer program she ran at our local elementary school as a teenager. After that I took classes in high school and later college that helped me study and learn more about the field of education. I love working with children and watching them grow and learn. When they have that “light bulb” moment if they figured something out that was really challenging, or accomplished a hard task, it is extremely rewarding. The Montessori classroom allows children to learn in their most natural environment and go at their own pace. It is a safe and nurturing climate where children can be challenged and respected.
I love spending time with my husband and two children enjoying the outdoors especially the beautiful beaches surrounding Newburyport!
Co-Educator
Joined NMS in 1997
Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education, Manchester Community College
Montessori Advanced Assistant's training, Northeast Montessori Institute
EEC Infant/ Toddler Certified In-Home Family Daycare
Newburyport Montessori school is my happy place and such a huge part of who I am. Working with so many amazing women that share the joy of working with children and making a differences. I began working with children from a young age, first as a mother's helper and then a babysitter for my entire neighborhood. I always knew that my career would be to become a teacher and that has never waivered. My “why” has always been the pure joy of watching the world through a child's eyes, as we learn, grow and laugh together. Each and everyday is full of new wonders, dance parties and who could ask for more. I so love being a small part in each child and their families that I have taught in our community.
When I am not teaching I enjoy spending time with my family and children, Emily and Alex. I also love spending time with my two grand-pups Lazer and Groot! Taking long walks with a great playlist (always country) and reading have become a new return passion. I also love to organize and decorate my home and always have a project going. I continue to work and add on to my Bucket list and have accomplished my #1 which was to skydive. To jump into the clouds with the stunt man from Iron man 3 was a cool bonus. This summer I checked off my list a tattoo. trying new foods such as osyters, lobster and clams. Traveling to Greece and Austrilia has moved to the top.
Co-Educator
Joined NMS in 2019
Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education
Currently enrolled at Salem State completing Bachelors Degree
I fell in love with supporting children at a very young age. My mother ran a home daycare for 18 years and I looked forward to coming off the school bus to help her out everyday. Then as a got older I started to babysit for those families. I never knew what Montessori was until my mom started working at NMS. I then started my research and fell in love with the method, and agreed on everything Maria Montessori did. My favorite thing about teaching is watching children grow and develop as the year goes by. I was so fortunate to start my teaching career at NMS and can’t see myself anywhere else.
At home I love to cook, and hangout with my boyfriend and cat. My favorite thing to do is to go fishing. On my free time in the summer you can find me on the boat with a fishing rod in my hand… or on the beach baking in the sun. In the winter seasons I love to go to Maine to snowmobile and ski. I love to be outside as much as possible, I also enjoy going to the gym before work and taking long walks with my friends. I have 3 siblings, 2 nieces and 1 nephew.
Co-Educator
Joined NMS in 2022
Certified Montessori Teacher
EEC Lead Teacher Certified
My journey with Montessori Education started with my daughter Michaela, who attended a Montessori school at 2.5 years old. Through watching my daughter, I have witnessed the joy, benefits, and positive student outcomes of a Montessori education. I am passionate about and have adopted teaching the Montessori philosophy, as my career. I am committed to providing quality education and care for all children. I love to prepare children to become responsible, respectful, and independent individuals with a passion for life-long learning. I am committed to social justice and addressing equity is a principle of utmost importance. My personal experience growing up in Brazil, a very multicultural society, and coming to the United States as an immigrant has given me the opportunity to appreciate different cultures and backgrounds.
After work I love going for a long walk and hiking. I love traveling around the World, but the ocean is my favorite place to go. Going to the gym, yoga, and going out dancing with my friends are some of my favorite activities.. 2022 was a very special year for me, I had a chance to go to one of my dream Island, Tahiti Bora Bora. I make the best Oxtail soup. My heart is happy when I am with my daughter Michaela, who moved to Chicago when she graduated from college in 2020. I have also been a Real Estate Agent since 2005, and I love helping people with their dream homes.
Lead Educator
Joined NMS in 2019
Associate Degree in Information Technology, Northern Essex Community College
Montessori Advanced Assistant's Overview, Northern Montessori Rising Stars
EEC Teacher Certified
Montessori Certification in Early Childhood Education, North East Montessori Institute
I began my journey as an educator in 2008, by teaching Spanish to children from 3 to 6 years old in various Montessori Schools. It was then when I fell in love with the Montessori Method, and I decided to become a Montessori Teacher. I love the Montessori method because it offers a peaceful classroom environment where all children can thrive and reach their fullest and unique potential. I truly enjoy watching and helping the children to explore the world around them. I love their natural curiosity and joy.
In my free time I enjoy exercising, traveling, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.
Lead Educator
Joined NMS in 2024
Lead Educator
Joined NMS in 2023
Intern
Joined NMS in 2024
B.S. Nutrition, dual major in Ecogastronomy
M.S. Nutritional Sciences
Registered Dietitian, credentialed with the CDR
Northeast Montessori Institute 3-6 Certification (to be completed in May 2024)
Choosing a career in early education reflects my belief that true wellness begins in childhood. Having attended a Montessori school as a young child, I believe the Montessori environment allows children to develop the skills and values to become compassionate, capable, and responsible individuals. I am so fulfilled working with young minds each day, fostering a lifelong love of learning as they explore and develop at their own pace.
At home, I live with my fiancé. We love spending time outdoors, embracing the beauty of all four seasons that New England has to offer. In my free time I enjoy gardening, baking, and spending time at the beach.
Co-Educator
Joined NMS in 2008
Liberal Arts Degree- Northern Essex Community College
UMASS – Criminal Justice & History
Northeast Montessori Rising Stars – Montessori Advanced Assistant’s Overview
3-6 Certification- Northeast Montessori Institute
EEC-Lead Teacher Certified
Salem State- Early Childhood Education
I love the challenge and I love the joy of teaching. Teaching in a Montessori mixed-age classroom is very rewarding as I see the first-year students walk in, with many incredible magical moments along the way, and three years later, I see them exit, confident and knowledgeable, ready, and wanting to explore more. I continue learning each school year, and my students are my lead.
I am a mother of five children, a dog, a bunch of hens, and a friendly rooster named Buddy. I love the outdoors and the water, and you can often find me at Parker River. I love food, eating it, and talking about it!
Support Staff
Joined NMS in 2021
Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education
I have been working with young children since my high school days! They are the light that makes my life bright. I am so grateful to have found myself at NMS and continuing to keep that light glowing!.
I am a very proud “Nun-a” of seven fantastic grandchildren and I feel so blessed to have been and still able to be part of their first school experience!
Support Staff
I live in Rowley, MA and I attend Merrimack College. I enjoy working with the children at NMS and seeing them interacting with each other. I also love being a part of all the art and activities we do at NMS.
When I’m not working, I enjoy going to the gym, spending time with friends and family, and boating.
Support Staff
Joined NMS in 2021
Support Staff
Joined NMS in 2018
Licensed Practical Nurse, Brazil
Certified Nursing Assistant for Rehabilitation Services in Nursing Homes
Early Childhood Credential Program, Northeast Montessori Institute
My inspiration to become a teacher was that I wanted to have a positive, inspiring impact on children's lives. I just love how everything is so exciting to young children, and, you get to see the most mundane things, through their eyes. Finding a bug in the playground, making art with leaves, etc. I love the “Aha” moment when I child’s eyes light up because they understand something new or try something for the first time. I chose to teach in a Montessori environment, because it is known for individually paced learning and fostering independence, as well as encouraging empathy, a passion for social justice, and a joy in lifelong learning all of which are important to me.
I am very much family grounded, therefore, I LOVE spending time with my family and my friends. I have two step-daughters, and three wonderful step-grandchildren. I grew up spending lot time with my own grandma, who was very creative, and where I gathered lots of fun crafts and arts inspiration from. I now love painting, drawing, and pastels, because of her. I also enjoy spending time in my kitchen cooking, playing tennis, taking walks, traveling, and recently I discovered Pilates!
Office Administrator, Parent Liaison
Joined NMS in 2023
Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts with a Minor in Business Administration, Drexel University
My daughter started attending NMS in the Nido program and I fell in love with the Montessori approach and the loving community of people. I felt a strong connection to the school and decided to leave my more corporate career to become a part of this wonderful community. I have always loved working with children, but also very much enjoy organizational projects and flexing my creative muscles here and there to create signage etc. for the school. Best of all I get to spend more time with my daughter!
Outside of school I love spending time with my husband and daughter, especially going on family walks on the weekend. My other passion is cooking. I worked at America’s Test Kitchen on the Kitchen Operations team for 10 years and love all things food and cooking related!
Office Administrator
Joined NMS in 2016