Hi! I’m Ruchika Aggarwal. I was born and raised in Delhi, India, and my Montessori journey began in 2015 while looking for the right school for my son. I was immediately drawn to the child-led, movement-based approach that Montessori offers—it just made sense! I started as a lunch mom and soon found myself wanting to do more. In 2016, I became an assistant teacher, and by 2020, I proudly stepped into the role of lead teacher. It’s been such a rewarding journey. One of the things I love most about Montessori is working closely with families and watching children grow into confident, creative learners over their three-year journey in the classroom. Outside of school, I enjoy solving jigsaw puzzles with my teenage son, trying out new craft and DIY projects, and spending time in my garden when the weather is warm. I’m excited to be part of your child’s learning adventure.

I started as a preschool teacher in India and have been working in the educational field for three years off and on since then. I love helping with car drop-off in the morning; seeing the kids happy sleepy faces. I love working at SMS because of the kind nature of the teachers who work here. I always feel welcomed coming into school.

I am very proud to teach my language and my culture to your child. I have been working as a Spanish teacher for almost 10 years.  My passion is teaching Spanish to children in a way that is, fun, creative and meaningful. I love being silly with kids and making them smile and laugh. It is critical to me that every child feels special and important in my class. Feeling loved and having fun while learning Spanish is the perfect combination for children and makes them excited to learn and be happy to see me when I arrive to the classroom. I love the enthusiasm the little ones bring to the Spanish class. They are always teaching me a little something with each class session. It is an honor to be your child’s Spanish Teacher. I love to work in SMS, because these fun and energetic students remind me every time how blessed I am to be able to share my love of language, learning and culture with them.  

I am originally from Colombia and have a BS in Psychology. As a proud mom of two boys, I’ve lived in the US for close to 20 years. Over 8 years ago I started teaching Spanish to little kids and it always amazes me how they are like little sponges that learn so fast. I love working in the SMS, as it’s a welcoming community. Every classroom and every kid is important to me and I love working with all of them.

I have 22 years of experience in the educational field and this is my third year working at SMS. The most fun thing about working here is the age group of the kids. My son is now growing out of the 3-6 year age group so it is nice to have that constant here. The conversations that I have with the kids are the most fun. I love how trusting they are; they can come to me about anything. I love working at SMS because it’s a very warm and welcoming place. It feels good to work here. I’ve always been in Room 14 and it has always been a good experience.

This is my seventh year at SMS, and I bring over 10 years of experience working in early childhood education. I am a certified Infant/Toddler Montessori teacher and am currently continuing my studies in Early Childhood Education. Throughout my time at SMS, I’ve had the chance to support children through many stages of growth, and each year brings something new and exciting. One of my favourite things about working here is the strong sense of community. We have such meaningful connections with our families and an incredible, supportive team of staff. There’s a real sense of joy and warmth in our school, and I love being part of a place where we can work hard, laugh often, and make every day special for the children.

I was recommended SMS for my son when arriving from England in 1989. I quickly saw what a wonderful learning experience he was having and started to volunteer in his class. I later became an assistant and in 1996 I took my Montessori training . My love for this school has grown over the years and has given me a new family and community. I have enjoyed every year like the first and after 30 years of experience the joy continues. I get to spend time with children from all over the world and learn together about diversity and cultural activities. My passion has been teaching children the practical skills they need for continued development and I love to show children how to take care of animals. Some of my fondest moments are seeing the smiles while riding ponies and blasting off rockets into the sky. I feel blessed to get to come to school everyday to see the joy of learning and exploration of ingenious materials. I truly believe in the Montessori philosophy.

Born and raised in Redmond, I actually attended Sammamish Montessori School when I was a child for both Preschool and Kindergarten. I continued my education at another local Montessori school until 4th grade and was integrated into the Lake Washington School District for the rest. I graduated from Western Washington University with a Business Administration degree with minors in Economics and German. But, despite pursuing a higher education degree in Business, I have always loved working with children. I spent most of my early work experience as a camp counselor, ski instructor, and eventually as the director of the ski school. I have worked with hundreds of children over the years, and it has always been such a special experience that I wanted to reconnect with SMS to scratch that teaching itch! Both of my children currently attend SMS, as I truly believe in the Montessori philosophy and do my best to incorporate Dr. Montessori’s teachings in our home. Since I have decided to go back to school to pursue a degree in medicine, I get to see the studies of the brain and how the Montessori method actually works, from what we know about child development. The Montessori program directly benefits cognitive reasoning, self-regulation, social independence, creativity, and more. This entire experience has been such a pleasure. I love working with everyone at SMS, both children and staff. It is such a privilege to be able to spend time with everyone in this community, learning from one another.

This is my first job since moving to the United States. I really like working at SMS and the school is very close to my heart. It feels as if I am working with my family.

This is my 16th year working at SMS and my second year working in the office. I started at SMS when my son was in kindergarten and was a reading mom. I really enjoyed working with the kids, so the teachers recommended that I interview to be a staff member. My favorite thing about working here is the colleagues. We are a great group of women, and I have made really good friends over the years. These are people that I can count on if I need anything, absolutely anything. I love the environment here at SMS; it feels like family. We do everything together and have each other’s backs. 

I have enjoyed giving piano lessons at the school for since 2009. (Plus I have taught from my home for around 20 years)! It has been so fun to watch the students grow in their knowledge of how to play the piano. I love getting to know them each personally and smile when I see their eyes light up when they really enjoy hearing themselves make music!

My name is Maggie, I’m originally from Ohio, now I live in Bellevue. My background is in art, I have my BFA and I’m a painter and ceramicist. I deeply value the Montessori philosophy of fostering independence and curiosity, and I strive to reflect these principles in my work. One of my favorite quotes is from The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry: “All grown-ups were once children…but only few of them remember it.”. Outside of work, I enjoy camping, crafting, and spending quality time with my family. I also love exploring new creative projects and soaking in the natural beauty of Washington.

I hold an postgraduate in Organic Chemistry. My inherent passion for teaching led me to support numerous students in their studies back in India. This year marks the beginning of my journey as an assistant teacher at SMS, and the experience has been nothing short of amazing. Observing the tangible progress in my preschooler son, who also attends SMS, has been especially rewarding. Working at SMS allows me to contribute to the remarkable transformation of these wonderful kids within the community, making each day a fulfilling and enriching experience.

As a recent Washington State University graduate, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in English and Secondary Education. I grew up in a Ukrainian-Russian family, though I was born and raised in Everett, Washington, giving me the strangest and best of both worlds and cultures. Along with literature and language, education is something I have always been drawn to, and it’s been an immense pleasure to spend my 9-5 watching these kiddos grow into confident and independent individuals. I originally went into college to become a middle school English/Language Arts teacher, and then the years expanded my interests to linguistics, poetry, editing, and writing/communications of all sorts, leading me here! Outside of work, you can find me reading, writing poetry, talking about video games, and finding any and every way to make life more whimsical and fun. I’m a creative, coffee and tea lover, voracious reader, cat (and dog) person, and a lover of chit-chat. At SMS, you can find me at the front desk for a chat!

After more than 20 years working in technology companies — and now entering our fourth year as the owners of SMS — I can say with complete certainty that nothing is more rewarding than spending each day surrounded by children.

When the school’s founders — Chris and Joan Starling, Hilary Prentice, and Janet Villella — approached us about continuing the SMS legacy, we knew it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We left our corporate careers behind and dove headfirst into running the school. It was both exciting and humbling — and it has become one of the most meaningful chapters of our lives.

Every day at SMS brings something memorable — a smile, a story, or a small moment that reminds me why this work matters. Sometimes it’s seeing a child’s eyes light up when they master something new. All of our children have grown up at SMS, and our youngest is now thriving in our Lower Elementary program — one of our newest programs. Watching that program flourish has reinforced how deeply families value Montessori education beyond the preschool years.

Having spent two decades in the tech world, I find it especially meaningful that many of our SMS parents also come from technology backgrounds. That shared perspective helps us understand the pressures and priorities of modern families — the long work hours, the search for balance, and the desire to give our children something deeper than academics: a sense of joy, purpose, and community.

Growing up in India, my parents made countless sacrifices so that I could have access to a strong education — often putting our needs above their own comfort. Their quiet determination and belief in the power of learning shaped who I am today. That background drives me every single day — to make sure that the children who walk through our doors feel supported, inspired, and loved, just as my parents made me feel.

From my years in the corporate world, I carry lessons in big-picture thinking and disciplined execution — skills that have helped us dream big and deliver on those dreams, from our outdoor learning spaces and playground redesign to our community-building events that bring families together. But what truly fulfills me is the small, everyday magic: hearing laughter echoing through the playground, seeing teachers light up with pride, and watching children grow more confident with each passing week.

At the end of the day, that’s what makes this journey so special — knowing that we’re helping to build not just a school, but a foundation for a lifetime of curiosity, compassion, and learning.

I started my Montessori journey as a parent about 15 years ago and fell in love with it! I’ve been a Montessori lead for 3 years and am proud to be a part of the wonderful Sammamish Montessori Community! This is a warm and caring space that brings the true values of Montessori philosophy to the society! In my free time I practice yoga and escape to the beautiful PNW outdoors!

My education journey began as a toddler teacher and soon led me to a preschool teaching role where I taught for four years nurturing and supporting children during their most formative stages. I joined SMS in 2023 when I decided that I would like to learn the administrative side of working in education. I am currently studying child education and development with a drive to further strengthen my understanding of the young mind and continue doing what I love most—guiding kiddos with a loving, supportive hand as they grow into whoever they dream to be. My favorite thing about working at SMS is greeting each of your children every day with a warm and welcoming smile. When I’m not working at the front desk, you can find me studying, reading, crafting, jamming out to music, or getting my hands dirty working on a new project!

As a mother of two wonderful children, I understand both the joys and the challenges of nurturing young minds. I am currently pursuing my Montessori Toddler Certification through MEIPN, continuing my passion for early childhood education. My academic background includes a master’s degree from India and several certifications from the University of Washington. I have also volunteered as a teacher at a community school, where I had the privilege of witnessing children’s growth and being part of their learning journeys. I believe that every child is a unique individual with boundless potential. As a lead teacher, I am dedicated to fostering curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love for learning. Together, let’s create a nurturing environment where each child can thrive and discover the joy of learning every day.

With a background in graphic design and a master’s degree earned in Spain, I began my teaching career in Texas, where I spent eight rewarding years teaching Art and implementing sensory-based strategies that engage multiple senses through hands-on learning experiences. For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of being part of the SMS community, where the supportive atmosphere and collaborative spirit truly stand out. The meaningful relationships I’ve built with both colleagues and students have been deeply fulfilling. The children’s smiles, laughter, and enthusiasm continually inspire me, making each day a joyful and rewarding experience.

As a Montessori teacher and an educator for 18 years, I find immense joy and fulfillment in my role. I am passionate about fostering a love for learning in young minds, witnessing their curiosity, and fearlessness, providing an environment where children thrive emotionally, socially, and academically, and parallelly focusing on the whole child’s development. I am continually inspired by the children’s growth, the magic of our materials, and the strong bonds we build with parents at SMS.

I have over 15 years of experience in the educational field, and this is my tenth year at SMS. I have been introduced to the Montessori philosophy in 2014 when my daughter began her Montessori education at the Sammamish Montessori School. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is witnessing the growth and progress of my students over the years. From their first tentative steps into the classroom to the confident, independent learners they become, each milestone is a testament to the transformative power of Montessori education. To me, being a Montessori teacher is a privilege, a chance to make a difference in the lives of children I have the honor of teaching. And for that, I am endlessly grateful.

I have 15 years of experience in the educational field. I love working at SMS because for 3 years I get to see the children gain confidence. SMS has a very positive environment. Whenever I step into the school, I feel more and more happy to be working here. 

I have been teaching at Sammamish Montessori School for the past 17 years. Sammamish Montessori has helped me grow by providing a community where we learn from each other. Since I joined this school, I have not only learnt from my colleagues but also the children. The school has given a platform where we can come up with our own curriculum which is individualized to every child to help them grow as an individual. The opportunity given to set up your own classroom and make it meet the needs of the current students has made this school a fun place to work.

My journey in teaching began when my two-year-old son started preschool in 2016. I earned an ECE credential and taught in a traditional preschool for four years. During this time I was introduced to Montessori philosophy, and I was immediately drawn to its principles driving me to gain my Montessori teaching credentials. This will be my fourth year as the lead teacher at SMS having previously worked as an assistant and intern at another Montessori school. I am deeply passionate about working with young children while staying true to the Montessori philosophy to the best of my abilities. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment where children have the space and time to grow and become their best selves. I am grateful for the opportunity to provide this environment at SMS. 

I was born and raised on a farm in Missouri surrounded by ducks, chickens, quail, guineas, cows, pigs, guardian dogs, and goats. My love for caring for others began early—I was affectionately called “Mini Mama” because I was always looking after the younger children around me. My grandmother, who founded and taught at my pre-middle school, inspired me deeply through her work as a second-grade teacher, principal, Sunday school director, and language teacher at Southwest Baptist University. I have studied Dr. Montessori’s work extensively, as her philosophy aligns perfectly with my own beliefs about how children learn best. I am currently finishing my coursework for my Montessori 0–3 credential and have been leading toddler classrooms for the past seven years. Before finding my home at The Sammamish Montessori School, I served as the Toddler Program Director at Evergreen Montessori Academy in Bellevue. One of the most important Montessori principles to me is child-led learning—providing the space and opportunities for children to follow their sensitive periods of development with gentle guidance rather than rigid instruction. The most magical moments in teaching toddlers are watching their joy and confidence blossom when they master something new on their own. Before beginning my career in education, I became a Certified Nursing Assistant, following in the footsteps of my family of nurses. I’ve always been fascinated by medical science and still keep that passion alive (including a family tradition of watching House M.D. and Grey’s Anatomy together to see who can catch the most inaccuracies). Outside of the classroom, I enjoy playing violin, having studied for 12 years in the Suzuki method. I also love gardening—most of the flowers, produce, and herbs my boyfriend and I eat are homegrown. My next project will be building my own chicken coop! I collect preserved moths and butterflies and am an avid geology enthusiast, enjoying rockhounding, rock tumbling, and geode cracking. At home, I share life with my very spoiled Malchi named Kewpie and her older “brother,” Jasper, the giant cat.

With over two decades of experience in the IT/Technology industry, my journey with Sammamish Montessori School (SMS) began in 2016 as a parent. Since then, all three of our children have been part of the SMS community, with our youngest currently in his Kindergarten year. Covid was a life-changer for many and so was it for me to pause and reflect on what I wanted to do next. With the inner passion for children’s education and as a Montessori Mom, the decision to pursue Early Childhood Education in Montessori was a natural choice. The joy of teaching and learning from children each day aligned with SMS’s desire for someone to lead the school as part of their succession plan. Being a parent, a teacher, and an administrator has provided a comprehensive 360-degree perspective, to make SMS the best place for our children, teachers, and families. The ‘aha’ moments of a child exploring a new work, or the challenge of answering their insightful questions, are aspects that I truly cherish. The feeling of community and one SMS family, where everyone is ready to help and lean-in; the fun events where children enjoy and talk about them for years to come, and the well-rounded individuals that walk out of this school each year as proud SMS graduates, are what motivate me each day!

This is my second year working in Montessori. I love working at SMS because the staff is so accommodating. If my kids are sick, or I’m running late, they understand and work with me accordingly. I also love working with the kids of course. When the kids run and give me a hug and call my name, it makes me so happy. It is very precious.

My name is Tamilselvi Kandasamy, but at school the kids call me Mrs. Sathish. I earned my Master’s degree in Computer Applications and worked as a lecturer in a college in India, teaching computer and nursing students. After moving to the USA, I started my career in the education field and found SMS to be the right place for myself and my two kids. I am inspired by the Montessori philosophy, which emphasizes following the child’s natural curiosity and fostering independence rather than correction. My goal is to provide a positive and nourishing environment where each child can grow with more confidence. I love to see their growth as a part of the SMS family, and I am always happy to support their emotional and social skills. Outside of school, I enjoy yoga, sketching, hiking, and walking. These days, my interest has moved toward photography, which I find very exciting.

This is my third year at SMS. Before working here, I taught mathematics to elementary students at a Japanese school in Dubai for 5 years. Being in the toddler class is rewarding because I get to see the growth the students have once they move to the primary classes. There are many great teachers here that I can learn and get advice from. Everyone has their own style but everyone really loves the kids. My sons went to school here and loved it. They are able to come back during summer camp even after graduating to see their friends and catch up. 

Born and raised on the vibrant island of Sri Lanka, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Dental Surgery and began my training in Oro-Maxillo-Facial (OMF) surgery. Life took a transformative turn when my husband and I moved to the United States, just as I was completing my first year of surgical training. Shortly after arriving, I enrolled my older son in a Montessori school—a decision that sparked a lifelong passion. In 2016, I received my AMS (American Montessori Society) certification, and this year marks my 12th year in a Montessori classroom. I am a firm believer in Montessori philosophy, which has not only shaped my approach to education but also enriched my journey as a mother, teacher, and individual. Both of my sons attended Montessori schools through elementary years, and my older son is now 19 years old. Most recently, I completed a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, and I’m thrilled to integrate mind-body awareness into my classroom. Yoga and Montessori share a deep respect for the inner life of the child, and I look forward to exploring this connection with my students.

I began my journey at SMS seventeen years ago, working in the computer lab, after-school clubroom, daycare on no- school days, and as a classroom substitute. I then spent three years collaborating with Mrs. Ward in STEAM/Montessori class, followed by four Wonderful years working with Mrs. Muldowney in room 6. This year, I am excited to start a new chapter with Ms. Rajika in room 7. Over the years, I have created many meaningful memories and deeply grateful for the supportive community at SMS. What I love most about my work is spending each day with children, whose curiosity, laughter, and energy make my work so rewarding.

I have 10 years of experience in a Montessori school. I started off by volunteering in my son’s school helping with math and phonics and I’ve worked at SMS for two years. The thing I love the most about working at SMS is how relaxed it is. I really enjoy working here. I have made many friends working here and I really feel like I am a part of a community; it’s what keeps everyone coming back. 

I have over 20 years of experience in the educational field and love working with children! The philosophy of Montessori has always been very close to my heart, and my adventures with it began almost 20 years ago right at SMS when my children started school here. Along with them, I also started working at SMS. After maternity leave, I worked at several local Montessori schools and happily returned to SMS again. For my love of Montessori Philosophy, I completed Montessori Assistant Training (MEIPN, 2019) and I am also a Certified Montessori Teacher (NAMC, 2024). I have also been a Polish language teacher for 20 years and teach Polish at the Polish School in Seattle; I also provide tutoring. I also love physical activity! I am an instructor of High Fitness, Zumba, Zumbini and Yoga. Privately, I love spending time with my family, traveling, reading books and hiking. My great love are also animals (especially cats!) and nature.

All I ever wanted to do in life was to be a teacher. First, I taught ESL for several years, but when I discovered Montessori, I knew that was going to be my new path. Fast-forward 29 years (the last 20 years at SMS), and I still find my job immensely enjoyable and gratifying. I am constantly amazed at the timelessness of the Montessori method, and how the children connect and learn with the hands-on Montessori materials. I also love teaching our summer camps where I can share my interests – art, architecture, geography, history and nature – with my students. I am very appreciative of our school’s diversity. We have families and staff from many different countries and many different backgrounds. Throughout the year, I look forward to celebrating various festivals and holidays and learning about other cultures, customs and traditions.

I am delighted to be working as an Assistant Guide at Sammamish Montessori. The positive atmosphere,  the kindness and support of the staff create an inspiring environment every day. With my certifications through MEIPN, I feel genuinely grateful to be surrounded by such passionate and compassionate educators. I am loving working here with the children.

I have a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and began my Montessori journey three years ago when I moved from California to Washington. Before that, I worked in a daycare setting. First in the toddler room, then in the infant room. I’ve loved working with both age groups, but toddlers have always had my heart. The time between 18 months and 3 years may seem short, but it’s filled with incredible growth. It’s such a joy to see how much each child develops from the time they join our class until they transition to the Primary program. My first experience in Montessori was as an assistant in a Primary classroom. After about a year and a half, I realized how deeply I connected with the Montessori philosophy, especially in how it views, respects, and supports the child. That experience inspired me to pursue my Montessori credential. Every day, I come to the classroom with joy and excitement, knowing the importance of my role in each child’s journey. My personal motto is “lead with kindness,” and I hope my students feel the love, care, and sense of community I bring to our classroom each day. I joined SMS in March 2025, and I’m excited to continue growing both professionally and personally alongside this amazing team and our students. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading on my Kindle, playing board games with friends, and traveling with my fiancé.

I’m a professional musician and educator serving the greater Seattle region for over twenty years. Ever since I was able to hold a pair of wooded spoons and bang on my mom’s old pots and pans, I knew and wanted to be a musician. Being a fourth-generation musician, my family was very supportive in helping me accomplish that goal. In the late nineties, I met and became very good friends with Brian Vogan, a skilled musician and songwriter. When Vogan approached me with his idea of recording children’s music that he wrote, I didn’t hesitate to climb aboard. Turns out, we’ve recorded eight successful albums and performed countless shows from the top of the Pacific Northwest and all the way down to coast through the Pacific Southwest. In 2015, my wife and I enrolled our son into a co-op preschool where I was required to donate two days a week to help support the school. I enjoyed that time so much that I quickly became interested in the idea of teaching and enrolled into CWU’s teaching program to earn my BA and teaching certificate in elementary education. For the past three years I have worked for worked for Seattle and Highline school districts and have had the privilege of meeting some outstanding educators and administrators that have supported my pedagogy. Recently, I have decided to return to college, University of Washington, to attain my masters in SpEd. In the meantime, I’ll be playing music with Brian Vogan and his Good Buddies and lending my talents to support other educators and their classrooms.

I hold an MBA degree and have been working with toddlers for the past four years. I love working with young children and helping them grow and develop. This is my first year at SMS, and I love being a part of this wonderful school.

I joined SMS 2 year ago. I enjoy working here and the kids. All of the staff were helpful to me when I first started working here. Some fun things about working here have been how everyone speaks different languages. I love working at SMS because I love teaching and I love the kids. 

I’m Najiah Rahman, and I am honored to serve as the Montessori Toddler Lead Guide and Program Co-ordinator for the Toddler Program. With 17 years of experience in the Montessori field and 11+ of those years at SMS, I have had the joy of guiding and nurturing young minds during their most formative years. Although I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business, my true passion has always been working with children. This passion led me to pursue Montessori certifications for both the 0-3 years and 3-6 years age groups. Over the years, I have witnessed the profound impact that Montessori education can have on a child’s development, and it is this belief that drives me to create a nurturing and stimulating environment for every child in my care. Outside of the classroom, I love to stay active and connected with nature. You’ll often find me hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying time outdoors. I also cherish moments spent with friends and family, which help me stay grounded and energized. My goal is to foster a love of learning, independence, and confidence in each child, and to work closely with parents to support their child’s growth. I look forward to continuing this incredible journey with you and your children.

I started my career as a Homeopathic Doctor in India before my marriage. while doing my Masters got married and within 2 weeks moved to the USA. I am a mother of 3 children and always love being with the kids & pets. My passion towards to kids made me volunteer at schools about 15 years. 2 years ago, my excitement started working with pure little hearts and young enthusiastic minds at Sammamish Montessori school and it’s been very welcoming and supportive environment. I’m grateful for being part of this amazing community.

I joined Sammamish Montessori School in 2013, the same year my daughter began preschool here. I hold a Master of Arts in Management from San Diego and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts from Bangkok University. Working with children brings me joy every day. I love talking with them, teaching them, and building strong, positive relationships that help them grow and be independent. I am grateful to be part of such a warm and supportive school community.

I discovered Montessori back in India when I was looking for a school for my son and I was instantly attracted to the Montessori method of teaching. It was when my son started middle school that I started working in a Montessori school as an assistant teacher. I was always attracted to sensorial and math materials and would observe my lead teacher giving lessons. This led me to take up the Montessori teachers training. I completed the Early childhood credentials from AMS and worked as a lead teacher for three years in a Montessori School in Bellevue. My multilingual skills in English, Hindi, Gujarati, and Kannada have allowed me to connect with families from diverse backgrounds, something I value deeply. A little about me. I was born and raised in India and moved to Seattle in 2013. I hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science. I live in Redmond with my husband and my son is a sophomore in University of Maryland. We love traveling and discovering new places. I am truly honored to be part of this community and can’t wait to meet all of you. Thank you for welcoming me with open arms.

I moved to the US in 2020, just two weeks before the world changed, straight from Finland! With a Business IT degree and a Major in Marketing, I’ve worked in tech industries from cybersecurity to SaaS. My journey took a surprising detour when I immersed myself in early childhood education (päiväkoti) back in Finland to master the Finnish language, where I quickly realized that children make the best teachers. Now, at SMS, I’m excited to bring creativity, and strategy, creating enriching experiences and building strong connections between our wonderful families, students, and teachers!

Having lived in Wisconsin and California, I now call the Pacific Northwest my home. My educational journey began in Zambia, Africa and has since been guided by my passion for the Montessori philosophy. This journey has been incredibly rewarding, as I help children discover their unique paths. One of my favorite Montessori quotes encapsulates my teaching philosophy: “A child is a discoverer. He is an amorphous, splendid being in search of his own proper form.” Inspired by this, I strive daily to create an environment where each child feels valued and empowered to grow. I look forward to engaging with a diverse group of young minds and celebrating our differences. My love for languages as a polyglot enhances my ability to connect with people from various backgrounds, enriching my role as a Montessori teacher. Outside the classroom, my family—my husband, two children, and our dog—are my greatest joy. We cherish our time outdoors, exploring new places, and simply being together. In my leisure, I like to read, bake, and work arts and crafts. I have a particular passion for quilling and paper filigree, and I continuously embrace learning new languages.

I am mom of three, engineer, community builder and learning designer. Education has been the common thread connecting these various roles. My work as educator started organically with my own children, and I have persisted and grown in this capacity for the last twenty years. I have successfully guided their K-12 journey in versatile STEAM disciplines such as the application of heritage visual art in environmental sustainability and origami in aerospace engineering. This has helped me develop perspective on diverse inherent potential in students, and possibilities. As an engineer, I have worked in the hardware and software industries, learning and applying technologies to execute projects. I have also served as lead coach and mentor for an FLL Robotics student team. My interest in education spilled over to community building, where I have volunteered for over twelve years as teacher and in a management role, at a local K-12 non-profit organization. Bringing together these experiences, I am currently pursuing graduate studies (M.S.Ed) in Learning Design and Technology at Purdue University, where I study the intersection of education, technology, and design, to develop learning experiences to address diverse learning needs. I am incredibly grateful for being part of the educator community at Sammamish Montessori School, where I find a welcoming and inclusive environment, warm camaraderie, and highly supportive and collaborative peers. I believe in the Montessori philosophy of keeping each child at the center of their scholastic journey. It is a privilege to be working with enthusiastic young minds every day and I am deeply thankful for this opportunity.

Hi, I am Kasturi Sur. Currently I am working at Sammamish Montessori School as a lunch helper and an assistant guide. Since I joined school it has been a very exciting and enjoyable journey for me. I look forward to meeting the students everyday who are to me a constant source of joy, stress relief and happiness. I am grateful and very happy to be a part of SMS family.

I am Radha Tiwari. I was born in New Delhi, India. I was working in NDPL while completing master’s degree in human resources before moving to US. My Montessori journey started when I saw my close friend’s daughter being so independent at such a young age. I was very impressed and curious about Montessori. My daughter started Montessori when she was 2.5 years old and I started as a lunch mom. In 2019, I became an assistant guide. I always wanted to become a teacher and here I am. I really love this age group and working with them is so much fun. This school is very close to my heart, and I hope to continue this journey for long.

I am Mythri Valluri, originally from India,I have a rich background in education and community engagement. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Science and have earned Early Childhood Montessori Certification. After spending ten years in California, I relocated to Seattle in 2006, where my Montessori education journey began. With over eight years of teaching experience in Montessori education and four years as a lead teacher, I use to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my work. I am Fluent in Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, and English where I like to connect with families from diverse cultural backgrounds. My passion for Montessori education and commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments have made me develop materials for our class. I have the skills and expertise to work with students and develop a curriculum that fosters growth and development in every area—not just intellectually, but also socially, physically, and emotionally. My training enables me to provide a nurturing environment that stimulates children’s growth, encourages active participation, and allows them to explore various areas of learning. I am committed to creating a supportive atmosphere that empowers children to reach their full potential through independent growth and self-discovery. I am excited to bring my experience as a teacher into practice, by helping each child thrive and succeed. Apart from my professional background, I live in Sammamish with my husband and I am a proud mother of two children. I have a passion for traveling and exploring new places, and every year, my family and I make it a tradition to go camping. In my free time, I enjoy playing board games with my family, and I’ve built an extensive collection of games at home. Another hobby that is close to my heart is dancing, which I actively pursue and encourage my daughter to learn as a way of embracing our traditional and cultural roots. I am truly excited to be a part of this vibrant community and look forward to contributing in many meaningful ways.

My name is Nadia Van Waes; I was born and raised in Brussels, Belgium. I worked in a nursery school in Brussels as an infant lead teacher applying the Pikler pedagogy. One of Pikler’s fundamental principles is to have the same teacher guide a group of children for three years, following and meeting their needs through observations. This pedagogy is exceptionally respectful to young children because it focuses on the individual child’s developmental progress through self-initiated movement. After traveling extensively until my early thirties, I fell in love with the US and made this country my home. While looking for a preschool for my children, I discovered the Montessori philosophy, which also emphasizes learning through movement. I became passionate about Maria Montessori and her philosophy and started teaching at The Sammamish Montessori School as a lead and co-guide. To continue my teaching journey, I worked for the French-American school in Seattle. I taught French in a hybrid classroom (online and in person) for 3-to 6-year-olds, implementing the French and Montessori curricula. I am committed to guiding children along their growth and development path, and to offer them a solid Montessori foundation and to inspire them to become lifelong learners! Outside my professional life, I find joy in various activities. I am an avid learner and a passionate cook; I love gardening and biking. Most importantly, I love traveling and spending time with my husband and family.

I am Anusha Velaga; I completed my bachelor’s degree in India. I began my professional journey as an Assistant Teacher at Sammamish Montessori School, and this is my 2nd year of an exciting journey. I am delighted to work with toddlers, supporting them in achieving their developmental milestones. I am honored to be part of the collaborative and encouraging Montessori community at SMS.

I am a 4th generation musician originally from Missoula, Montana. After years of touring with indie/punk bands across the PNW, I moved to Seattle in 2000 and became a Montessori teacher while I pursued my musical ambitions. In 2006, I was selected to teach music at the Soundbridge in Benaroya Hall (home of the Seattle Symphony). Being so immersed in the symphony was a musical awakening, and I was fortunate to apprentice under the remarkable Dr. Patricia Kim. Before long, I was performing for children and families on a weekly basis and expanding my work to private schools around Seattle. It was during this time that I developed a therapeutic music program for disadvantaged youth at the Childhaven schools. My work there was championed by Seattle rock superstar Chris Cornell, who graciously used profits from Soundgarden concerts to fund my entire program (as seen here in Rolling Stone Magazine). My work with Seattle’s youth has also inspired me to release eight albums (and 2 singles) of original children’s music with my group, the Good Buddies. The band and I have performed all over the northwest, and we specialize in creative and fun music that pulls from a wide influence of style and genre. The band is currently recording our 9th album with our longtime producer Barrett Jones (Foo Fighters, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, etc.).

This is my seventh year at SMS but I’ve been teaching for 40 years. I started teaching in Canada teaching special education. I then went overseas to teach with a Canadian organization similar to Peace Corps. I then taught in Nigeria where I stayed for 15 years and meet and married my husband. Summer camp wasn’t available in Uganda and Gambia, so I would create a STEAM summer camp for my kids and 25 of their friends. That was the beginning of the STEAM program. I also have working in museums helping making them more accessible to school aged kids. I have also run an artisanal food business making jams and jellies. I then taught art at a Montessori school which expanded into a garden to table program where the kids would grow food and cook it for the school. My family then left and moved here. SMS was the only school who opened their doors for me. I showed them what I had to offer and they gave me a job in the After School Club; I’ve been here ever since. One of my favorite memories at SMS have been setting up the Dino Dig. It started as a very small project and turned into something quite spectacular. Starting the STEAM program here at SMS is one of my favorite memories as well. It allows the kids to take what they’ve learnt in the Montessori classroom, and build on it through a lot of hands-on, open-ended work that is not contained in a certain time period. We can continue working on things for one week, two weeks, if they want to. The students are able to leave things and come back to it. The amount of learning that goes along and re-calibration and problem solving and getting the other kids to help problem solve, it’s been fantastic. I love working at SMS because I was able to set up this program and I get to do what I think is most interesting for the children. I’ve been given the freedom to do that and work on it and have been given a whole group of people to work. 

Since graduating from a pedagogical college in Ukraine in 2012, I have been working with children in various environment. There I worked as an elementary school teacher and an English tutor. I also enjoyed working in kids’ summer camps. When I relocated to the USA with my family, I started working at an early education facility where I gained experience with toddlers and preschoolers. I discovered the Montessori method when I joined SMS and I was amazed by it. I appreciate the environment, the teachers’ commitment, and the children’s friendliness every time I come to work!