Miss Madelynn | Head of School

Hello all, my name is Madelynn, and I am the Head of School here at MCS! I have been entwined in the Montessori philosophy since birth; growing up, my parents and grandparents had a deep love for the method and when I was young, they started this wonderful school, MCS. I have a strong background in Business Administration, holding a bachelor’s degree from Saint Mary’s College and a master’s degree from Notre Dame de Namur University. I also have my masters in education from Whitworth University and my AMI Montessori 3-6 training from Montessori Northwest. I started working at MCS as the Assistant Director in 2013 and became Head of School after three years, delighted at the opportunity to lead our school.

This is now my tenth year as Head of School, and it is something I look forward to doing indefinitely. My goal for our school is to create a culture of warmth and belonging, where everyone feels welcomed, and all children are supported and respected as they unfold their unique personalities while receiving the very best AMI Montessori education. This is such a special community, and I am proud to be a part of it; our parents, guides, and children are filled with love and constant support. I have two littles; one named Odin who started in Nido and is now in Jellyfish, and another born in June who will be starting in Nido. it has been exciting being on the parent side of the school! When I am not at work you can find me playing soccer, watching my husband Matt play beach soccer (die-hard soccer family!), or going to/watching niner games!

Miss Aurora | Assistant Head of School

Hi! I am Aurora and I am excited to continue for my third year as assistant director and work alongside Madelynn, my sister. I started my Montessori journey when I attended this school, MCS, in the Toddler and Primary program when I was a child! My parents also started this school so I have spent my entire life surrounded by the philosophy and developing a love for working with children. When I was just 14 I used to spend my summers or days ff school helping my mom in the Nido classroom.

I have always been drawn to working with the babies. My first year, I assisted in the Nido program and loved immersing myself into the classroom full time. I also did my AMI Montessori assistants training for 0-3. I am now continuing my Montessori education and pursuing my AMI training for the 0-3 age through Southwest Institute of Montessori. I am also currently pursuing my BA in Early Childhood Education through Grand Canyon University. My goal as assistant director is to be a source of support for families and staff so we can bring our community together and make it the very best place for our little ones to learn and grow. n my free time, I enjoy playing basketball, going to swimming holes, the beach, and hiking.

Miss Zoe | Floater and Front Desk

Hi! I am Zoë! I have been working at Montessori since April 2025 and I love it here and I’m excited for the new school year and new faces. I am in admin and I’m also a floater so you see me all over the place here. Before starting here I didn’t know anything about Montessori Philosophy but since I have started I have learned so much about it and I really enjoy watching the kids develop and figure things out on their own. I have had the desire to work with children since I was a junior in high school. When I was a senior, I got assigned to a teacher’s assistant period in a first grade classroom and I fell in love with helping kids learn. I loved how excited they would get when they would see me come into their class, I was always greeted with the biggest group hug and that’s when I knew for a fact I wanted to work with kids. So finding Montessori Scotts Valley has been a blessing and dream come true.A little about me is that I have lived in the San Lorenzo Valley for as long as I can remember. I went to the same high school that my dad and uncle went to and I even had a few of the same teachers. I graduated in 2023 and went right to Cabrillo for Early Childhood Education.

I am still taking a few classes but I am mainly focused on working full time. In my free time I hangout with my dog and mom outside in our garden. I hangout with my friends whenever I can. I like going to Loch Lomond on the weekends and going hiking and fishing. I love cooking, and I like doing my nails and my friends’ nails. You’ll notice I change them all the time and I even have the kids help me figure out what to do next. I enjoy going to hockey games and baseball games with my mom. I LOVE going to concerts with my friends, it is my favorite source of entertainment. I also do the Northern California Renaissance fair every year and I work the front gate.

Mr. Gerard | Front Desk Assistant

Hi, my name is Gerard! I am the younger brother to both Miss Madelynn and Miss Aurora. I grew up at this very school, having attended it all the way from Nido to Primary, and I can see how it greatly benefited my early development. I’ve helped out from time to time during the summer and have been eagerly waiting for the time that I can be a bigger help to the staff and the community!

My goal is to be a warm and welcoming face within this community and to encourage positivity and a welcoming environment! I am currently pursuing my education in business with a minor in early childhood development at Cabrillo community college. In my free time, you’ll find me working out, playing baseball, or spending time with my family.

Miss Zoe| Nido Lead Guide

Hi there! My name is Zoe and I am the Lead Guide of the Nido classroom. I have worked at MCS for the last 6 years and I am so excited for this upcoming school year. I was born and raised in Santa Cruz. I’ve worked with children of all ages in many capacities; tutor, behavioral technician, after school science program coordinator, babysitter etc. I graduated from Sonoma State University in 2019 with a BA in Early Childhood Development. In Spring 2021, I took a course at UCSD and am now a Lactation Education Consultant.

I graduated from the Montessori Institute of San Diego where I received my AMI 0-3 diploma (woo!!) in 2022. I spent 8 months participating in the course online and then 5 weeks down in La Jolla where I was able to learn hands on and collaborate with other educators. Although San Diego is beautiful, I am definitely a NorCal gal! In May 2025, I graduated with my Masters of Education from Loyola University Maryland! The focus of my studies were the accessibility of Montessori education, building community, and creating a sense of belonging for children, staff, and families alike.

I’ve just joined the Human Rights/Social Justice board of AMI and am excited to continue my work! I love being able to watch infants communicate and evolve into the people they are going to be. It’s super important to me that babies feel accepted, and respected in our environment. They thrive with our trust and our love! Our classroom is full of joy and positive energy, which is something I take a lot of pride in. When I’m not working, you can find me at the beach or walking around town. Or hauling too many groceries form Whole Foods.

Miss Alaina | Nido Assistant

Hi all, my name is Alaina, and I’m so excited to be joining the Nido team this year! I have always enjoyed working with young children, which led me to pursue my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Cabrillo.

I then transferred to San Jose State University, where I will receive my Bachelors degree in Child and Adolescent Development Fall of 2025. When I’m not working, I enjoy all things outdoors, and spending time with my friends and family.

Miss Keira| Nido Assistant

Hello! My name is Keira, and I am so excited to be part of the NIDO class room community. I am from Scotts Valley, California, and I’ve moved around quite a bit, which has given me the chance to connect with many different people and experiences. I joined the program in January 2025 and love the Montessori environment.

I love helping these little minds grow each and every day and have a caring, loving environment to grow their personalities. I am also hoping to pursue my degree in Elementary Education and teach 1st – 3rd grade. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy traveling up and down the coast of California, camping and hiking with my partner, while also spending time with my animals and my family.

Miss Rebecca| Nido Assistant

Hello! My name is Rebecca and I will be continuing for my second year in the Nido classroom at MCS. I have always enjoyed being with children starting with babysitting at a young age, and volunteering as a summer camp counselor. That led me to pursue Early Childhood Education classes in College.

I have also worked as a long term nanny for three amazing families spanning 15 years (infants-six years of age). I have great attention to detail and thrive in a fast paced working environment, having also worked as hostess, busser, server and bartender. In my free time I love to go to the beach, hike with my dog, and explore new restaurants with friends. I look forward to meeting you all!

Miss Regina | Lead Puffin Guide

Hello, my name is Regina. Our MCS has been a dream come true. Before we opened MCS, my husband Bill and I could not find quality education at the pre-school level in this area and were placed on very long waiting lists. Seeing the need and having Montessori knowledge in our background, it all came together, and we created this school, which our last three children attended.

Over the years, I have helped in many different capacities: Nido lead for 5 years, project planner, seamstress, tour guide, assistant guide in all classrooms, playground supervisor, and now my second year as Puffin lead. My husband Bill and I are very hands on and love to be part of the community, and I am excited to step in wherever is needed. Montessori has been our love and passion. Many challenges have happened over the years, but with every wave, we feel truly blessed to provide the best school possible for our community.

I have raised six children, the youngest being a freshman in college now. I also have 5 dogs and 3 cats who have become my babies, along with three grandchildren. All my children have gone to Montessori schools, and I deeply love the philosophy. Coming from a large family myself, the Montessori method was just a way of life, promoting independence and working as a family to accomplish our goals. In my spare time, I love to garden, sew, work on construction projects, and cuddle my cats! I also love black and white classic movies, especially if they have Greer Garson in them.

Miss Kim | Puffin Assistant

Hello, I’m Kim and I am so excited to start my eighth year here at MCS! I I started my journey in the Nido room (back with Miss Regina), and quickly fell in love with the babies! I felt so honored to watch them grow and learn, to be a part of their first school experience. There were lots of giggles and hugs, and so much fun.

I watched year after year the little ones grow and move on, they are all amazing children with amazing families! This year, I will continue in the Puffin class, where I will be assisting Miss Regina and the toddlers.

Miss Isa | Puffin Assistant

Hi! My name is Isabella and I am one of the assistant guides in the puffin community. This will be my third school year with MCS. The first two years I assisted in Jellyfish, and moved over to Puffins in summer. I have completed my AMI 0-3 orientation course through Southwest Institute of Montessori studies and eager to further my education through Montessori. I started with no knowledge of Montessori, but I was raised at such a young age to be independent, so witnessing the philosophy of Montessori, I fell in love.

I have been working in childcare for almost 6 years. Getting to see each child grow, learn, and overcome so many obstacles is so special. I was born and raised in Santa Cruz, but also spent my time living in the Salinas area throughout my childhood. In my free time, I love to spend time with family (I am very family oriented), going on walks with my two dogs, camping, car shows, car cruises, and getting to help my partner detail/prime a car part for a paint job. I am so excited for this upcoming school year and to continue growing within the community at MCS!

Miss Sam | Jellyfish Lead Guide

Hello ! My name is Samantha, but you can call me Sam. I am the lead guide of the Jellyfish Community. I’ve been working with children for over 11 years, and I spent over 2 years in a small home based daycare until I joined MCS in November of 2023. I love watching, helping, and growing with the children. I believe that every child has natural capabilities and it’s our job to help them nurture and grow those capabilities . This is my first Montessori experience and I’m so grateful to be here.

I’m so excited to follow the lead of the child and grow with them. I have recently completed my AMI Montessori 0-3 Assistance to Infancy Diploma through Montessori Northwest, and have been thrilled to further add to my knowledge about early childhood and the Montessori Philosophy.I was born and raised in Santa Cruz. I currently live in San Lorenzo Valley with my dog Oneida and my family, who I am very close with. If I’m up in the mountains ,you can find me by the river, hanging with my family, in the dunes, tending to my chickens, or exploring the forest with my dog!

Miss Izzy | Jellyfish Assistant

Hello! My name is Izzy and I am the Assistant Teacher in the Jellyfish classroom. I’m starting my fourth year at MCS. I took my Early Childhood Education coursework through Montessori’s training program. I have also completed my AMI Montessori Assistants Training. I’m honored to be a part of such a devoted team and contributing to a safe and engaging environment for children to grow. I have worked with many children ranging from toddlers to teens through my work as a babysitter and Behavioral Technician.

I truly love witnessing and supporting children as they progress into independent humans and figure out how to navigate the world. In my spare time, I love creating art and jewelry, playing with my dog, and spending quality time with friends and family.

Miss Christine | Jellyfish Assistant

Hello, I’m Christine! I have just joined MCS in June of this year as the jellyfish assistant. I have 30 years experience working with young children, 12 of those years was at a Montessori school as well. I have 30 ece units, and have completed part of my AMS Montessori training. I was raised in the Santa Cruz mountains and love nature in my free time I love spending time with my animals and having fun with friends.

In my free time, I love to spend time with family (I am very family oriented), going on walks with my two dogs, camping, car shows, car cruises, and getting to help my partner detail/prime a car part for a paint job. I am so excited for this upcoming school year and to continue growing within the community at MCS!

Miss Melissa | Otter Lead Guide

Hello! My name is Melissa, and I am the Lead Guide of the Otter Primary Classroom. I was born and raised in a small town in New Jersey and moved to California seven years ago. Living in Northern California has been such an amazing adventure, and I truly love being here. I bring over 15 years of teaching experience, working primarily in Early Childhood Education, and this will be my fifth year with MCS.

In 2024 I graduated from Montessori Northwest, where I received my AMI Montessori 3-6 Diploma, which has deepened my passion for guiding young children through their early years of growth and development. In my free time I enjoy riding my bike, going on road trips, exploring the beach, and spending time with my partner and our mischievous dog Chita. I am excited to share this journey with your children and to create a joyful, nurturing, and inspiring classroom community together.

Miss Heidi | Otter Assistant

Hello, my name is Ms Heidi! This is my fourth year with MCS. The first year I assisted in Dolphins and the last two years I assisted in Otters, which I will be continuing in for this school year. I am incredibly grateful to be a part of such a cohesive team of compassionate heartfelt professionals. I am a mother of a 10 year old boy who ultimately was my biggest inspiration to want to learn, grow, and embark on my educational journey in Early Childhood Education.

I’ve experienced so much self discovery in working towards my AS in ECE. I was deeply inspired during my studies when the Montessori philosophy was introduced to me. My son attended a Montessori school, which greatly impacted my ambition for the Montessori method. I have 5 years experience working in a preschool setting and I also have background working in the behavioral health field. I am thrilled to learn and practice Montessori methods here at MCS and have now completed my AMI Assistants Training. I look forward to getting to know the children in the upcoming school year. It brings me great joy working with children and to get to help them along on their journey towards independence. My favorite pass times are reading, being outdoors, gardening, crafting, movies, and spending as much time as I can with my little boy Andrew.

Miss Shikha | Dolphin Lead Guide

My name is Shikha Kaushik. My journey in Montessori Pedagogy spans eight years, during which I served as a lead Children’s House guide. I am a certified AMI (Association of Montessori Internationale) Guide, specializing in working with children aged 2.5 to 6 years. My training occurred at the Montessori Training and Research Institute in Hyderabad, India. I also completed the AMI Montessori Administrators certificate from Sydney Montessori Training Center Australia. Prior to my current role in the United States, I had the privilege of working as a Lead Guide for a year in India and three years in Thailand. I am now in my seventh year of enriching children’s lives in the Montessori environment.

In addition to my Montessori training and experience, I hold a postgraduate degree in International Human Resource Management from England. During my four-year tenure in the country, I have also honed my skills as a Lecturer and in Client Relations. I am a native of India and am blessed with a family of four: my husband, myself, and our two boys. My older son is pursuing his Postgraduate Degree in Data Science and is based in New York. My younger son has just graduated from high school. I am a very down-to-earth personality and adore being closer to nature. I enjoy listening to soft, romantic music. I am very excited to continue for my second year with the MCS community and look forward to seeing you all in person.

Miss Izabela | Dolphin Assistant

Hi, my name is Izabela, and I am thrilled to be joining Montessori Community School this year! I will be working alongside Miss Shikha and Miss Shari in the Dolphin classroom. My journey in childcare began with my very first job, caring for a little girl, and though I explored many different professions over the years, working with children has always been at the heart of my life.

At 22, I moved to New York City to work as an au pair, which turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made. Since then, I have earned a Master’s Degree fin Education rom Bialystok University in Poland, worked with many families, and gained experience in both private childcare and school settings. A few years ago, I also earned my Postpartum Doula certification, further deepening my skills in supporting children and families. Most recently, I worked at Brook Knoll Elementary, where my daughter attended school. It was an incredible experience that allowed us to build many wonderful friendships. Now that my daughter has started middle school, I am excited to begin a new chapter here at MCS!

Miss Shari | Dolphins Assistant

Hi. My name is Shari and I am so grateful to be a part of Montessori community school. I started here in September 2023 as a “floater”, assisting in all the classes, Nido, Toddlers and Primary levels. It has been a wonderful opportunity to get to know all the precious children. I received an Attorney Assistant Certificate from West Valley College and worked as a paralegal at Santa Clara County Office of District Attorney until the birth of my third daughter, at which time I resigned to become a full time mom.

Then I established a house cleaning business which enabled me to work around my three daughter’s school schedule and be involved with all their activities. I moved on to spend many years as an Administrative Assistant. Of all the positions I’ve held, ( except being a mom and grandmother) I find the greatest satisfaction and joy working with the children at MCS, encouraging them through compassion. In my free time I enjoy working in my garden, taking my dog to the beach, crafting, reading, Sudoku and hanging out with my grandchildren.

Miss Janine | Outside Guide & Aftercare

Hi there! I’m Ms. Janine, one of the assistant guides in the Primary classrooms! I joined MCS in February 2024 and am loving every minute of working here! I have always had a curiosity about the Montessori method and am learning more and more about this way of learning every day and am very fortunate to be working in this amazing environment with the best people! A little about me, I am Scotts Valley born and raised and have attended schools here in town up until high school.

I have my bachelor’s degree in Education from Grand Canyon University (Phoenix, AZ) and have been an assistant teacher since 2019. I have taught in various environments such as private religious preschools, public schools, and the Champions Before and After School program at Vine Hill Elementary and Brook Knoll Elementary. In my free time, I like to volunteer with the Scotts Valley Educational Foundation (SVEF), especially with the Food Truck Friday events! I also enjoy watching sports, going to local restaurants and listening to live music, and hiking the beautiful trails this area has to offer.