Meet our staff!
Unlike many private and public schools, Montessori programs require their lead teachers to hold a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalence in experience) and a post graduate certification that can only be secured through rigorous training, lecture and demonstration of ability. This certification prepares teachers to have an exceptional understanding of all the developmental needs of children within a specific age group. Central has an exceptional staff who are cross trained at their levels. Even our substitutes are well trained before they are asked to take responsibility for the care of our students.
Administration
Kelly McCray (Head of School)
Kelly joined our staff in 2013 and assumed the role of Central's School Director in July of 2022. Kelly manages our daily operations, works directly with PAC, and, as the lead in our HR, has been instrumental in building our amazing Montessori team of teachers, guides, and administrators. Kelly has a Bachelor's in International Studies with a Social Justice focus and a minor in Italian Studies from VCU. Kelly also degrees in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management. Before joining Central, Kelly's experience was in food and hospitality industry management. She was an adjunct instructor at Reynolds Community College in the Culinary Arts Department. As a child, Kelly attended Montessori programs in Dickinson and Beaumont Texas. She has two children who attend Central. Outside of work, Kelly enjoys reading, camping, spending time with her family, and eating delicious food.
Kelly joined our staff in 2013 and assumed the role of Central's School Director in July of 2022. Kelly manages our daily operations, works directly with PAC, and, as the lead in our HR, has been instrumental in building our amazing Montessori team of teachers, guides, and administrators. Kelly has a Bachelor's in International Studies with a Social Justice focus and a minor in Italian Studies from VCU. Kelly also degrees in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management. Before joining Central, Kelly's experience was in food and hospitality industry management. She was an adjunct instructor at Reynolds Community College in the Culinary Arts Department. As a child, Kelly attended Montessori programs in Dickinson and Beaumont Texas. She has two children who attend Central. Outside of work, Kelly enjoys reading, camping, spending time with her family, and eating delicious food.
Anita Pishko (Director of Curriculum and Programming)
Anita Pishko, along with her husband Stephan, co-own Central Montessori School. Anita received her Psychology degree cum laude with a minor in Child Development from VCU and is AMS certified at the primary and elementary levels. Anita acted as Head of School from November 2007 until July of 2022. At that time, she moved into the classroom and curriculum support position. Her office is at 2001 E. Broad St. Anita has also worked with Montessori training centers as a teacher trainer, a supervising teacher and is a master teacher. She was a national speaker at the Annual AMS Conferences. Anita helped Neighborhood Resource Center’s Director Mary Lou Decossaux, and several other Montessorians, establish a sliding-scale Montessori program for Fulton Hill families. Anita Co-owned a Montessori School in Texas before moving to Richmond for her family. Anita has a strong interest in children’s art including theater. She also works for the restoration of indigenous plant, and the protection of our natural environment for our children.
Anita Pishko, along with her husband Stephan, co-own Central Montessori School. Anita received her Psychology degree cum laude with a minor in Child Development from VCU and is AMS certified at the primary and elementary levels. Anita acted as Head of School from November 2007 until July of 2022. At that time, she moved into the classroom and curriculum support position. Her office is at 2001 E. Broad St. Anita has also worked with Montessori training centers as a teacher trainer, a supervising teacher and is a master teacher. She was a national speaker at the Annual AMS Conferences. Anita helped Neighborhood Resource Center’s Director Mary Lou Decossaux, and several other Montessorians, establish a sliding-scale Montessori program for Fulton Hill families. Anita Co-owned a Montessori School in Texas before moving to Richmond for her family. Anita has a strong interest in children’s art including theater. She also works for the restoration of indigenous plant, and the protection of our natural environment for our children.
Amira Aronovici (Assistant Director / Infant/Toddler Manager)
Amira is the Assistant Director. She oversees enrollment projections, student transitions, PAC support, and support of our parent volunteers. Amira is the first to greet infant/toddler families each morning! Her office is at 2107 Jefferson Ave on the Infant and Toddler campus. Amira graduated from VCU with a Bachelor’s in Urban Planning with a focus in Sustainable Development. She received a certification in Montessori Administration in October of 2021. Before coming to Central, she worked at a physical therapy clinic and as a nanny for many years. Amira holds a strong appreciation for Central’s creative atmosphere and school philosophy. Outside of Central, Amira enjoys reading, gardening, playing with her dogs (Lily and Muffin), embroidery and knitting for several local charities.
Amira is the Assistant Director. She oversees enrollment projections, student transitions, PAC support, and support of our parent volunteers. Amira is the first to greet infant/toddler families each morning! Her office is at 2107 Jefferson Ave on the Infant and Toddler campus. Amira graduated from VCU with a Bachelor’s in Urban Planning with a focus in Sustainable Development. She received a certification in Montessori Administration in October of 2021. Before coming to Central, she worked at a physical therapy clinic and as a nanny for many years. Amira holds a strong appreciation for Central’s creative atmosphere and school philosophy. Outside of Central, Amira enjoys reading, gardening, playing with her dogs (Lily and Muffin), embroidery and knitting for several local charities.
Deanna Pacitto (Front Office Manager)
Deanna joined Central in 2019 as an assistant in the upper elementary program. She joined the front desk team in the summer of 2022. Deanna’s experience assisting at preprimary, lower el, and upper el, along with her strong communication skills make her an ideal person for our dynamic FrontDesk administrative support team. Deanna earned her bachelor of Science in Psychology degree from Virginia Commonwealth University with Summa Cum Laude distinction 2017. After graduation she spent two years working as a preschool teacher. In Deanna’s free time she enjoys painting and caring for her pets.
Deanna joined Central in 2019 as an assistant in the upper elementary program. She joined the front desk team in the summer of 2022. Deanna’s experience assisting at preprimary, lower el, and upper el, along with her strong communication skills make her an ideal person for our dynamic FrontDesk administrative support team. Deanna earned her bachelor of Science in Psychology degree from Virginia Commonwealth University with Summa Cum Laude distinction 2017. After graduation she spent two years working as a preschool teacher. In Deanna’s free time she enjoys painting and caring for her pets.
Madeline Brown
To be closer to her family, Madeline moved to Richmond from Oregon with her partner fairly recently. They have been really enjoying the city. In march of 2023, Madeline graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Business Administration. In any spare time, she enjoys drawing, going to thrift stores and coffee shops, and going on walks with her dog and partner. In 2019 Madeline had the opportunity to travel to Italy and work as an English teacher at a couple summer camps. During this time, She taught several students English through song, dance, and play. She realized, when teaching abroad, that she enjoy helping children learn and become respectful, caring adults. Growing up she went to a charter school where class sizes were small and with many opportunities to learn and grow at their own pace, much like Montessori. It also valued other core Montessori principles, like having respect for the child, and creating a prepared environment for their absorbent mind, giving children the opportunity to learn, understand, and grow.
To be closer to her family, Madeline moved to Richmond from Oregon with her partner fairly recently. They have been really enjoying the city. In march of 2023, Madeline graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Business Administration. In any spare time, she enjoys drawing, going to thrift stores and coffee shops, and going on walks with her dog and partner. In 2019 Madeline had the opportunity to travel to Italy and work as an English teacher at a couple summer camps. During this time, She taught several students English through song, dance, and play. She realized, when teaching abroad, that she enjoy helping children learn and become respectful, caring adults. Growing up she went to a charter school where class sizes were small and with many opportunities to learn and grow at their own pace, much like Montessori. It also valued other core Montessori principles, like having respect for the child, and creating a prepared environment for their absorbent mind, giving children the opportunity to learn, understand, and grow.
Liesl Tahmassebi
Liesl is a former Montessori student who attended Aquinas Montessori and later worked in the Montessori program in various in the after school program, the summer camp program, and various other roles throughout her time there. Liesl graduated from VCU in 2018 with a Bachelor's in Communication Arts with an Emphasis in Scientific and Medical Illustration and a Minor in Biology and is also a freelance artist.
Liesl is a former Montessori student who attended Aquinas Montessori and later worked in the Montessori program in various in the after school program, the summer camp program, and various other roles throughout her time there. Liesl graduated from VCU in 2018 with a Bachelor's in Communication Arts with an Emphasis in Scientific and Medical Illustration and a Minor in Biology and is also a freelance artist.
Stephen Pishko (CFO/Info-Tech/Facilies & Properties/Security)
Stephan co-owns the school alongside his wife, Anita. As the Business Officer, he over sees financial matters, budgeting, and financial planning for the school. This role involves ensuring the school's financial health and sustainability. Stephan oversees the school's physical infrastructure and facilities. He collaborates closely with the Finance Team, indicating that he works alongside financial professionals to manage the school's finances effectively. He also over sees technology management. Stephan takes on the role of the first responder in safety-related situations across the three campuses. Stephan brings a wealth of experience from the entertainment and convention industry. Stephan's status as a disabled veteran highlights his commitment to service. Stephan possesses an in-depth understanding of Montessori philosophy. Outside of work, Stephan has a passion for soccer, which is second only to his family. He loves spending quality time, or any time, with his grandchildren. He enjoys weekend excursions with Anita, and he tolerates their two dogs, Skinny and Fatty.
Stephan co-owns the school alongside his wife, Anita. As the Business Officer, he over sees financial matters, budgeting, and financial planning for the school. This role involves ensuring the school's financial health and sustainability. Stephan oversees the school's physical infrastructure and facilities. He collaborates closely with the Finance Team, indicating that he works alongside financial professionals to manage the school's finances effectively. He also over sees technology management. Stephan takes on the role of the first responder in safety-related situations across the three campuses. Stephan brings a wealth of experience from the entertainment and convention industry. Stephan's status as a disabled veteran highlights his commitment to service. Stephan possesses an in-depth understanding of Montessori philosophy. Outside of work, Stephan has a passion for soccer, which is second only to his family. He loves spending quality time, or any time, with his grandchildren. He enjoys weekend excursions with Anita, and he tolerates their two dogs, Skinny and Fatty.
Infant/Toddler
Evie Allport
Originally from New York State, Evie Allport moved to Richmond to pursue a BFA at VCU. After graduation he discovered a love of teaching through painting and leading summer camp. Evie has always loved working with kids and is happy for the opportunity to share his skills at Central Montessori School!
Originally from New York State, Evie Allport moved to Richmond to pursue a BFA at VCU. After graduation he discovered a love of teaching through painting and leading summer camp. Evie has always loved working with kids and is happy for the opportunity to share his skills at Central Montessori School!
Alexis Harris
Alexis moved to Richmond, VA (along with her dog, Badu) to be closer to family. Alexis brings her love of music and dance to the infant room, singing and dancing the children through their days. Alexis loves hiking, listening to music, and watching horror movies!
Alexis moved to Richmond, VA (along with her dog, Badu) to be closer to family. Alexis brings her love of music and dance to the infant room, singing and dancing the children through their days. Alexis loves hiking, listening to music, and watching horror movies!
Hosni Tanjim
Hosni Tanjim, a Bangladeshi national, relocated to South Dakota in 2016 with her family. In 2018, she moved to Richmond, Virginia, to support her husband's pursuit of a Ph.D. at VCU. Hosni completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Master of Arts (MA) degrees in 'World Religions and Cultures' at the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh, in 2011 and 2012, respectively. In the fall of 2023, Ms. Tanjim joined Central as a full-time assistant substitute. She has always had a passion for working with children and is the proud mother of two sons, aged 9 and 4. In her free time, Ms. Tanjim enjoys exploring new places with her family and experimenting with various types of cuisine.
Hosni Tanjim, a Bangladeshi national, relocated to South Dakota in 2016 with her family. In 2018, she moved to Richmond, Virginia, to support her husband's pursuit of a Ph.D. at VCU. Hosni completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Master of Arts (MA) degrees in 'World Religions and Cultures' at the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh, in 2011 and 2012, respectively. In the fall of 2023, Ms. Tanjim joined Central as a full-time assistant substitute. She has always had a passion for working with children and is the proud mother of two sons, aged 9 and 4. In her free time, Ms. Tanjim enjoys exploring new places with her family and experimenting with various types of cuisine.
Pre-primary
Basil Gardner
Basil joined Central Montessori as an assistant in the preprimary classroom in June of 2022. Basil was raised in Roanoke, VA and now happily calls Richmond their home. They graduated magna cum laude from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2021 with a BFA in Craft and Material Studies, focusing on fiber and ceramics. After graduation, they decided to pursue their passion of working with children and spent a year assistant teaching in an after-school program before seeking out Central Montessori. Starting from when they first had younger siblings to care for, they have found great joy in both guiding and learning alongside younger people. Basil's biggest goal in life and in their career is to help someone every day. Outside of work, they enjoy creative expression and spending time with their family.
Basil joined Central Montessori as an assistant in the preprimary classroom in June of 2022. Basil was raised in Roanoke, VA and now happily calls Richmond their home. They graduated magna cum laude from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2021 with a BFA in Craft and Material Studies, focusing on fiber and ceramics. After graduation, they decided to pursue their passion of working with children and spent a year assistant teaching in an after-school program before seeking out Central Montessori. Starting from when they first had younger siblings to care for, they have found great joy in both guiding and learning alongside younger people. Basil's biggest goal in life and in their career is to help someone every day. Outside of work, they enjoy creative expression and spending time with their family.
Angel Swinson
Angel is from Richmond, VA and joined Central in August 2022 as an assistant substitute. Angel spent most of her time in the preprimary and primary classrooms. She has accepted a full-time position in the pre-primary classroom and will work with Basil and the children who already know and love her. Angel has a passion for working with children and has been working with children between the ages of 0-12 for almost three years. Before joining Central, Angel's last position was working with toddlers. She loves helping children develop many life-learning skills as they grow older within the community.
Angel is from Richmond, VA and joined Central in August 2022 as an assistant substitute. Angel spent most of her time in the preprimary and primary classrooms. She has accepted a full-time position in the pre-primary classroom and will work with Basil and the children who already know and love her. Angel has a passion for working with children and has been working with children between the ages of 0-12 for almost three years. Before joining Central, Angel's last position was working with toddlers. She loves helping children develop many life-learning skills as they grow older within the community.
Primary C Staff
Lead
Venessa Lopez (Lead / Director of Curriculum for Primary Studies)
Venessa joined Central in 2008. Venessa received her primary level Montessori certification in 2013 and was an intern and lead primary teacher from 2008-2020. She was a co-teacher in our lower elemenatry elementary classroom from 2020-2023. Venessa accepted the role of Director of Curriculum for Primary Studies in 2022 and has been a supervising mentor to many of teachers and interns during their Montessori certification process in MACTE-accredited training programs. In additonal to this postion, Venessa the acting lead educator in the Primary C classroom. Over the years, Venessa helped facilitate and support Central’s dual language and music studies curriculum. Prior to joining Central, Venessa taught music with Richmond Public Schools, ran music-based, English immersion summer camps and served as Education Liaison for Spanish-speaking families through Refugee and Immigration Services. Venessa has two children here at Central!
Venessa joined Central in 2008. Venessa received her primary level Montessori certification in 2013 and was an intern and lead primary teacher from 2008-2020. She was a co-teacher in our lower elemenatry elementary classroom from 2020-2023. Venessa accepted the role of Director of Curriculum for Primary Studies in 2022 and has been a supervising mentor to many of teachers and interns during their Montessori certification process in MACTE-accredited training programs. In additonal to this postion, Venessa the acting lead educator in the Primary C classroom. Over the years, Venessa helped facilitate and support Central’s dual language and music studies curriculum. Prior to joining Central, Venessa taught music with Richmond Public Schools, ran music-based, English immersion summer camps and served as Education Liaison for Spanish-speaking families through Refugee and Immigration Services. Venessa has two children here at Central!
Kyla Daniel
Kyla studied music history and elementary education at Mary Baldwin College. She has worked with children for over a decade in both the public and private sectors, and is now a new mom! She is excited to begin her Montessori journey at Central, and can't wait to share her love of art, music, theatre, and literature with the students.
Kyla studied music history and elementary education at Mary Baldwin College. She has worked with children for over a decade in both the public and private sectors, and is now a new mom! She is excited to begin her Montessori journey at Central, and can't wait to share her love of art, music, theatre, and literature with the students.
Primary B Staff
Lead
Fern Diaz- Castro
Fern Diaz-Castro was born in Mexico City and was raised in Harrisonburg, VA. It is there that she became deeply passionate about Montessori's Pedagogy. She has worked as a Primary Assistant for the last three years at a Montessori school in Harrisonburg. In August, she will have completed her Early Childhood Montessori Certification from Virginia Center for Montessori Studies. She is incredibly excited to begin a new chapter of her life in Richmond and to step into a primary lead position at Central. She is also looking forward to incorporating her native language, Spanish, into the classroom. Fern loves learning about psychology/child development and is quite interested in community and relationship building. We all need one another! In her free time, Fern likes to participate in the local DIY art and music scene, spend time in nature, cook, dance, read, watch movies and ride her bike!
Fern Diaz-Castro was born in Mexico City and was raised in Harrisonburg, VA. It is there that she became deeply passionate about Montessori's Pedagogy. She has worked as a Primary Assistant for the last three years at a Montessori school in Harrisonburg. In August, she will have completed her Early Childhood Montessori Certification from Virginia Center for Montessori Studies. She is incredibly excited to begin a new chapter of her life in Richmond and to step into a primary lead position at Central. She is also looking forward to incorporating her native language, Spanish, into the classroom. Fern loves learning about psychology/child development and is quite interested in community and relationship building. We all need one another! In her free time, Fern likes to participate in the local DIY art and music scene, spend time in nature, cook, dance, read, watch movies and ride her bike!
Sarah Kelly
Before coming to Central Montessori this summer, Sarah had been teaching at the Primary level in Richmond after completing her training with the Virginia Center for Montessori Studies. She originally studied English and Creative Writing in college, and enjoys including poetry and opportunities for creative expression with language into the Primary environment. Sarah was drawn to the Montessori method after observing how learning took place by following the needs of each child in a respectful and nurturing environment. In her free time, she likes to read as many books as she can and spend time with her cat Pippa.
Before coming to Central Montessori this summer, Sarah had been teaching at the Primary level in Richmond after completing her training with the Virginia Center for Montessori Studies. She originally studied English and Creative Writing in college, and enjoys including poetry and opportunities for creative expression with language into the Primary environment. Sarah was drawn to the Montessori method after observing how learning took place by following the needs of each child in a respectful and nurturing environment. In her free time, she likes to read as many books as she can and spend time with her cat Pippa.
Nicole Hetrick
Nicole joined Central at the beginning of the summer (2023) and is continuing her role as an Assistant this fall. She was born and raised in Lancaster, Pennsylvania but recently relocated to Richmond after two years working in museums in Washington D.C. Nicole received a B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Delaware in 2021 and currently is working towards a Masters degree in Museum Studies. She loves the way that Montessori education, much like museums, cultivates curiosity and a sense of discovery. Nicole loves reading fantasy novels, baking delicious treats, and exploring her new city in her free time.
Nicole joined Central at the beginning of the summer (2023) and is continuing her role as an Assistant this fall. She was born and raised in Lancaster, Pennsylvania but recently relocated to Richmond after two years working in museums in Washington D.C. Nicole received a B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Delaware in 2021 and currently is working towards a Masters degree in Museum Studies. She loves the way that Montessori education, much like museums, cultivates curiosity and a sense of discovery. Nicole loves reading fantasy novels, baking delicious treats, and exploring her new city in her free time.
Primary A Staff
Lead
Rosaura Perez-Schweiger
Rosaura joined Central as an primary assistant teacher in 2019. In 2022, Rosaura completed her Montessori educator certification and is the lead teacher in our Primary A. classroom. Rosaura is from El Salvador and provides children with a dual-language experience which is made evident through her songs, stories, and daily interactions. She graduated from the UCA El Salvador with a degree in Social Communications in 2013. She moved to Virginia at the end of 2016. Rosaura has always enjoyed being around children. She is from a big family with many nieces and nephews and gave classes to children at her local church.
Rosaura joined Central as an primary assistant teacher in 2019. In 2022, Rosaura completed her Montessori educator certification and is the lead teacher in our Primary A. classroom. Rosaura is from El Salvador and provides children with a dual-language experience which is made evident through her songs, stories, and daily interactions. She graduated from the UCA El Salvador with a degree in Social Communications in 2013. She moved to Virginia at the end of 2016. Rosaura has always enjoyed being around children. She is from a big family with many nieces and nephews and gave classes to children at her local church.
Judith Le Grand
Originally from the vibrant Island of Sri Lanka she brings a wealth of cultural diversity and compassion on her life journey. Judith’s voyage took an exciting turn when she moved to the city of Richmond 4 years ago. Her decision to work at Central Montessori was motivated by her deep appreciation for the school’s culture and philosophy. Judith is not just an educator but a bridge between culture, a guiding light for young learners. Her story serves as a reminder that our diverse backgrounds can be a source of strength and unity fostering a love for learning and a deep appreciation for the world around us.
Originally from the vibrant Island of Sri Lanka she brings a wealth of cultural diversity and compassion on her life journey. Judith’s voyage took an exciting turn when she moved to the city of Richmond 4 years ago. Her decision to work at Central Montessori was motivated by her deep appreciation for the school’s culture and philosophy. Judith is not just an educator but a bridge between culture, a guiding light for young learners. Her story serves as a reminder that our diverse backgrounds can be a source of strength and unity fostering a love for learning and a deep appreciation for the world around us.
Lower Elementary
Lead-intern
Macie Stewart (Intern)
Macie Stewart began their Montessori teaching career with Central in 2020 as a Primary Intern/Lead teacher. Because of their strong interest in the lower el curriculum and developmental age, they moved from primary to elementary studies in their certion program and accepted the position of Lower Elementary teacher. Macie attended Radford University and received a BFA in graphic design in 2017. They completed eleven years of rigorous training to become the lead teacher on the mat for a martial arts school.They were an assistant at Appletree Montessori School in Fairfax before joining Central. They spend most of their free time painting, playing video games, and brushing their three cats.
Macie Stewart began their Montessori teaching career with Central in 2020 as a Primary Intern/Lead teacher. Because of their strong interest in the lower el curriculum and developmental age, they moved from primary to elementary studies in their certion program and accepted the position of Lower Elementary teacher. Macie attended Radford University and received a BFA in graphic design in 2017. They completed eleven years of rigorous training to become the lead teacher on the mat for a martial arts school.They were an assistant at Appletree Montessori School in Fairfax before joining Central. They spend most of their free time painting, playing video games, and brushing their three cats.
Jenna Webb
“Jenna received her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Salisbury University in Maryland and then taught Kindergarten in the public sector for 8 years. She’s recently relocated to the Richmond area with her husband and cat. She’s really loved learning more about Montessori principles since joining the team at Central! In her free time, she loves to read, hike and spend time with family.”
“Jenna received her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Salisbury University in Maryland and then taught Kindergarten in the public sector for 8 years. She’s recently relocated to the Richmond area with her husband and cat. She’s really loved learning more about Montessori principles since joining the team at Central! In her free time, she loves to read, hike and spend time with family.”
Madyson Sale
Mady moved to Richmond in 2023 from Roanoke, VA where they spent two years teaching K-12 students in public school classrooms and community centers. They graduated from Roanoke College in 2021 with a BA in Political Science with concentrations in Peace and Justice and Middle Eastern studies. Mady is passionate about wholistic education and Montessori’s teachings of international peace. Outside of work, Mady enjoys spending time outside, crafting, cooking, petting their two cats, and visiting with loved ones.
Mady moved to Richmond in 2023 from Roanoke, VA where they spent two years teaching K-12 students in public school classrooms and community centers. They graduated from Roanoke College in 2021 with a BA in Political Science with concentrations in Peace and Justice and Middle Eastern studies. Mady is passionate about wholistic education and Montessori’s teachings of international peace. Outside of work, Mady enjoys spending time outside, crafting, cooking, petting their two cats, and visiting with loved ones.
Middle School & Upper Elementary
Lead
Kate Glace
Kate is currently working with the middle school students at Central Montessori School. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Anthropology with minors in Math and Statistics with Summa Cum Laude distinction in 2020 at VCU. Her background is in biological anthropology, archaeology, and paleoecology. She has worked with reconstructing environments during the Plio-Pleistocene in Africa to understand the environmental factors that influenced the evolution of hominins and other mammalian species. After graduation, she focused on research for a year, but early in 2021 decided to switch to a teaching career path to have a more direct impact on society. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking with her dog, rock climbing, and reading.
Kate is currently working with the middle school students at Central Montessori School. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Anthropology with minors in Math and Statistics with Summa Cum Laude distinction in 2020 at VCU. Her background is in biological anthropology, archaeology, and paleoecology. She has worked with reconstructing environments during the Plio-Pleistocene in Africa to understand the environmental factors that influenced the evolution of hominins and other mammalian species. After graduation, she focused on research for a year, but early in 2021 decided to switch to a teaching career path to have a more direct impact on society. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking with her dog, rock climbing, and reading.
Lead
Rachel Bradford
Rachel has been at Central since 2013. Throughout her AMS Montessori teacher training, Rachel co-taught in lower elementary and then returned to the upper elementary classroom, where she once taught as an assistant. She is now our wonderful lead teacher this program. Rachel is quick to offer support and help to other staff members. She loves building relationships with all of Central's community as well as enriching students' learning experiences throughout the community; from building garden boxes and cleaning up the neighborhood to overnight camping trips, museum and river expeditions. Rachel completed an Associate's degree in Elementary Education from Mid Michigan Community College in 2011. Living between Michigan and Virginia most of her life, she made a commitment to Richmond to complete a BA in Elementary Education, graduating Cum Laude from Virginia Commonwealth University and completed her Montessori Certification in Elementary I and II.
Rachel has been at Central since 2013. Throughout her AMS Montessori teacher training, Rachel co-taught in lower elementary and then returned to the upper elementary classroom, where she once taught as an assistant. She is now our wonderful lead teacher this program. Rachel is quick to offer support and help to other staff members. She loves building relationships with all of Central's community as well as enriching students' learning experiences throughout the community; from building garden boxes and cleaning up the neighborhood to overnight camping trips, museum and river expeditions. Rachel completed an Associate's degree in Elementary Education from Mid Michigan Community College in 2011. Living between Michigan and Virginia most of her life, she made a commitment to Richmond to complete a BA in Elementary Education, graduating Cum Laude from Virginia Commonwealth University and completed her Montessori Certification in Elementary I and II.
Sinuda Gaähgwadaiheñh (the warm sun) Kapalczynski (she/her)
Title: Curriculum Enrichment Coordinator, UE + MS, Since: Jan 2024
Hometown: Syracuse, NY
MAEd, Montessori Early Childhood, BS, Environmental Communications, American Montessori Society-Primary
Sinuda is the Curriculum Enrichment Coordinator for Central with a focus on Indigenous and diverse cultural for the Upper Elementary and the Middle school programmings. Sinuda is a native New Yorker with Mohawk, Cherokee, and Armenian heritage, she has 8 sisters in a blended family, with members living in Texas, Virginia, NY, and at the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation. She is a Virginia Montessori Association (VMA) board member since 2019 and a mom of an 11- year-old and 7-year-old. Most recently, Sinuda worked with Fulton Montessori School as the Director/Administration (2019-2023) where she enjoyed occasional roles in the classrooms while also leading the small non-profit school through many transitions. She has over 25 years in the teaching field working with toddlers through high school in both public schools and Montessori programs. She enjoys utilizing her MAEd in Montessori Early Childhood, her B.S. in Environmental Science, and her American Montessori Society (AMS) primary certification. Sinuda loves her family, Mother Earth, and being creative: her interests wax and wane for sewing, beading, singing, drawing, painting, dancing, gardening, hiking, cooking, and thanks to some CMS Upper Elementary students, crocheting!
Title: Curriculum Enrichment Coordinator, UE + MS, Since: Jan 2024
Hometown: Syracuse, NY
MAEd, Montessori Early Childhood, BS, Environmental Communications, American Montessori Society-Primary
Sinuda is the Curriculum Enrichment Coordinator for Central with a focus on Indigenous and diverse cultural for the Upper Elementary and the Middle school programmings. Sinuda is a native New Yorker with Mohawk, Cherokee, and Armenian heritage, she has 8 sisters in a blended family, with members living in Texas, Virginia, NY, and at the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation. She is a Virginia Montessori Association (VMA) board member since 2019 and a mom of an 11- year-old and 7-year-old. Most recently, Sinuda worked with Fulton Montessori School as the Director/Administration (2019-2023) where she enjoyed occasional roles in the classrooms while also leading the small non-profit school through many transitions. She has over 25 years in the teaching field working with toddlers through high school in both public schools and Montessori programs. She enjoys utilizing her MAEd in Montessori Early Childhood, her B.S. in Environmental Science, and her American Montessori Society (AMS) primary certification. Sinuda loves her family, Mother Earth, and being creative: her interests wax and wane for sewing, beading, singing, drawing, painting, dancing, gardening, hiking, cooking, and thanks to some CMS Upper Elementary students, crocheting!
Tyler Knox
Tyler grew up in Northern Virginia and has 3 siblings. He came to Richmond to attend Virginia Commonwealth University for 4 years. Tyler obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, after which he elected to stay in the city. Recreationally, Tyler enjoys going to the gym, adventuring at the river, and playing various board/computer games. He has always had a passion for teaching and getting involved with his former high school lacrosse team. Educationally Tyler really enjoys history and science, specifically WWII and anything space related.
Tyler grew up in Northern Virginia and has 3 siblings. He came to Richmond to attend Virginia Commonwealth University for 4 years. Tyler obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, after which he elected to stay in the city. Recreationally, Tyler enjoys going to the gym, adventuring at the river, and playing various board/computer games. He has always had a passion for teaching and getting involved with his former high school lacrosse team. Educationally Tyler really enjoys history and science, specifically WWII and anything space related.
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Substitutes
Jessica Jordan
Jessie is a Virginia native, with a professional acting career and Bachelor's degree in Theatre Performance from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has loved teaching, coaching and caring for children since 2011. Jessie joined Central in 2019 as a substitute teacher and still remains in that position. Getting to work with children at different levels is her absolute favorite! When she's not at Central, she's acting, spending time with her husband, and helping her dad build his real estate investment business.
Jessie is a Virginia native, with a professional acting career and Bachelor's degree in Theatre Performance from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has loved teaching, coaching and caring for children since 2011. Jessie joined Central in 2019 as a substitute teacher and still remains in that position. Getting to work with children at different levels is her absolute favorite! When she's not at Central, she's acting, spending time with her husband, and helping her dad build his real estate investment business.
Clara Hughes
A product of Montessori education, Clara is eager to return to the classroom as an assistant teacher. After growing up in Philadelphia, Clara moved to New York to attend NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and graduated with a BFA in Film and Television Production. They spent the following few years working mostly in production offices and on the sets of feature films. But once they started working in the Extended Day program at Brooklyn Friends School, Clara knew they wanted to pivot into the world of early childhood education. Just recently, they left Brooklyn and moved to Richmond for a new adventure. They can’t wait to continue their teaching journey at Central Montessori School.
A product of Montessori education, Clara is eager to return to the classroom as an assistant teacher. After growing up in Philadelphia, Clara moved to New York to attend NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and graduated with a BFA in Film and Television Production. They spent the following few years working mostly in production offices and on the sets of feature films. But once they started working in the Extended Day program at Brooklyn Friends School, Clara knew they wanted to pivot into the world of early childhood education. Just recently, they left Brooklyn and moved to Richmond for a new adventure. They can’t wait to continue their teaching journey at Central Montessori School.
Flor Calvillo
Flor joined the team at Central Montessori School this past fall. Before joining our little community she worked full time at Virginia State University. She moved to the United States 7 years ago from Guatemala where she spent a few years working as a primary age teacher. While in Guatemala she also worked as support staff in a hospital and got her teaching degree from Escuela Magisterio 2 De Junio. Flor is a mother to three beautiful children aged 17, 12, and 4 and in her free time likes to go to the park with her family and cook for them.
Flor joined the team at Central Montessori School this past fall. Before joining our little community she worked full time at Virginia State University. She moved to the United States 7 years ago from Guatemala where she spent a few years working as a primary age teacher. While in Guatemala she also worked as support staff in a hospital and got her teaching degree from Escuela Magisterio 2 De Junio. Flor is a mother to three beautiful children aged 17, 12, and 4 and in her free time likes to go to the park with her family and cook for them.
Sucely Palma
Sucely moved to the United States from Gutaelamla when she was in middle school. She joined Central as a summer aide in 2022 and returned to Central full-time as an assistant substitute in the spring of 2023. Sucely’s professional interests include working with children and continuing her education in the health industry. Sucely loves being outdoors and photographing nature. She is happy working with children and observing them develop new skills. Sucely enjoys learning things about different cultures including languages and food. This year Sucely, will be in several classrooms and supporting students with Spanish.
Sucely moved to the United States from Gutaelamla when she was in middle school. She joined Central as a summer aide in 2022 and returned to Central full-time as an assistant substitute in the spring of 2023. Sucely’s professional interests include working with children and continuing her education in the health industry. Sucely loves being outdoors and photographing nature. She is happy working with children and observing them develop new skills. Sucely enjoys learning things about different cultures including languages and food. This year Sucely, will be in several classrooms and supporting students with Spanish.
Facility Staff
Leah McCray (Facilities/Grounds/Suppies)
Leah works as facilities lead and is the first line of repairs for the buildings and the onsite contact for grounds. She designs and plants various gardens around all 3 campuses. Her main garden focus is at the Infant/toddler building. Leah attained a Montessori school as a child. She has recently passed her home inspection licensing and hopes to start her own company someday. Beside it being part of her job, one of her hobbies is to plant and grow flora. She is an avid outdoor person with many hours on the James and has years of camping and outdoor living experience for extended periods. Most of that time was in her 20 years of living in St. Petersburg, Florida, (St. Pete). Leah is definitely a member of the family in every way and constantly contributes to the wellbeing of the school.
Leah works as facilities lead and is the first line of repairs for the buildings and the onsite contact for grounds. She designs and plants various gardens around all 3 campuses. Her main garden focus is at the Infant/toddler building. Leah attained a Montessori school as a child. She has recently passed her home inspection licensing and hopes to start her own company someday. Beside it being part of her job, one of her hobbies is to plant and grow flora. She is an avid outdoor person with many hours on the James and has years of camping and outdoor living experience for extended periods. Most of that time was in her 20 years of living in St. Petersburg, Florida, (St. Pete). Leah is definitely a member of the family in every way and constantly contributes to the wellbeing of the school.
Private music instructors
Sofia Gadbois
Email: sofiag2300@gmail.com
Phone: 804 385 4055 (call/text)
Sofia is a professionally trained vocalist who has been singing since before she could walk. She earned her Bachelor of Music from McGill University with a secondary major in Psychology. She recently moved to Richmond and has fallen in love with teaching her new community. She has experience with students from ages 4-55+ and believes in a student-led approach that fosters creativity, learning, and fun!
Available lessons:
Email: sofiag2300@gmail.com
Phone: 804 385 4055 (call/text)
Sofia is a professionally trained vocalist who has been singing since before she could walk. She earned her Bachelor of Music from McGill University with a secondary major in Psychology. She recently moved to Richmond and has fallen in love with teaching her new community. She has experience with students from ages 4-55+ and believes in a student-led approach that fosters creativity, learning, and fun!
Available lessons:
- Voice- Individual or group lessons, Age 6+
- Piano- Individual lesson, Age 4+
- Guitar (beginners only)- Individual or group lessons, Age 8+
- Ukulele- Individual or group lessons, Age 6+
- *Younger ages will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Matt Blanton
Email: MattBlanton.music@gmail.com
Phone: (804)405-5770
Matt Blanton is a classically trained guitarist and composer, a bassist, a percussionist, and a performer. He has studied music at both Shenandoah Conservatory as well as at VCU. He has nearly 20 years of experience performing and teaching and is excited to be involved with the cultivation of the musical element at Central Montessori School.
Available lessons:
Email: MattBlanton.music@gmail.com
Phone: (804)405-5770
Matt Blanton is a classically trained guitarist and composer, a bassist, a percussionist, and a performer. He has studied music at both Shenandoah Conservatory as well as at VCU. He has nearly 20 years of experience performing and teaching and is excited to be involved with the cultivation of the musical element at Central Montessori School.
Available lessons:
- Guitar- Age 6+
- Bass- Age 6+
- Percussion(Cajon) lessons- Age 6+
Erika Holmes
Email: erikaaholmes@yahoo.com
Phone: 804-305-5554 (please text)
Erika is a classical strings player and has taught privately for over 15 years in various venues including here at Central Montessori School! Erika plays viola with the Petersburg Symphony and the Short Pump Strings Sinfonia and also plays the violin and cello/ Erika will be offering two- 45 minutes group lessons for students on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4-5 pm. Instruments will need to be provided and/ or rented by the parents. Erika can provide recommendations on some great instrument rental providers and which instrument may be a good fit for your child. This is a great program for students 7 and older who are ready for these longer lessons.
Email: erikaaholmes@yahoo.com
Phone: 804-305-5554 (please text)
Erika is a classical strings player and has taught privately for over 15 years in various venues including here at Central Montessori School! Erika plays viola with the Petersburg Symphony and the Short Pump Strings Sinfonia and also plays the violin and cello/ Erika will be offering two- 45 minutes group lessons for students on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4-5 pm. Instruments will need to be provided and/ or rented by the parents. Erika can provide recommendations on some great instrument rental providers and which instrument may be a good fit for your child. This is a great program for students 7 and older who are ready for these longer lessons.
