Meet our guides

A Montessori educator is more than a teacher; they are a guide, leading not from the front of the room, but from careful observation of each child.

Our qualifications

All our lead guides hold diplomas from Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) and regularly attend refresher courses with AMI as well. This training involves deep study of child development, Montessori philosophy, and extensive hands-on practice with the specific materials for their age level.

Many of our guides also hold advanced degrees in fields like Early Childhood Education, Child Development, and Elementary Education. They are lifelong learners, committed to ongoing professional development through workshops, peer observations, and coaching to stay current with the best practices in early childhood and elementary education.

Image for teachers page (qualifications section): A Montessori classroom.

Founder & Head of School

Kristi McAlister

AMI

CPR/First Aid

English

Mandarin

Italian

"Our role is to provide loving guidance to help each child follow their natural inclinations and engage with an environment specifically tailored to their passionate quest to understand the world."

Kristi McAlister graduated from Brown University with a BA in Developmental Psychology and Biomedical Ethics. She has a Masters in Urban Education from Kings College, University of London and an AMI primary (3-6 yrs. old) diploma from the Maria Montessori Institute in the UK. She was Montessori raised from birth and attended Horizon Montessori School under Diane Roberto and Ruffing Montessori School (until age 12) under David Kahn (Cleveland Hts., OH). She is also a NYC Board of Education certified secondary school teacher.

Credentials: AMI Primary (3-6 yrs.) Diploma, MA Urban Education, NYC Certified Teacher

Experience: 20+ years in Montessori

Special Interests: Developmental Psychology, Biomedical Ethics, Urban Education

Outside the classroom: When not at school, Kristi enjoys gardening and spending time with her family.

Training & safety

Professional development

Our guides participate in annual professional development, peer coaching, and specialized trainings in areas like positive discipline, neurodiversity-affirming practices, and the science of reading.

Safety & compliance

All staff undergo comprehensive background checks and are certified in CPR/First Aid and as Mandated Reporters. We adhere to strict classroom ratios, allergy protocols, and child protection policies.

Inclusion & belonging

We are committed to building a diverse team and fostering an inclusive environment. Our staff engage in ongoing learning about culturally responsive practices and building strong partnerships with all families.

How we support your child

Our teachers' deep expertise translates directly into a classroom experience that supports the whole child. They skillfully balance academic challenge with social-emotional learning, fostering independence and executive function while ensuring every child feels seen, supported, and included. By preparing the environment and observing closely, they guide each student to build strong foundations in literacy, math, and a lifelong love of learning.