Faculty and Staff
Discover more about our committed and experienced teachers and assistants by exploring their profiles below. You’ll find detailed biographies that highlight their backgrounds, education, along with some interesting fun facts!
Nido Program
Porcelain Perkins
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Porcelain was raised in Raleigh, NC. Her journey in working with children started when she became a nanny and tutor as a teenager. She attended college at UNC-Wilmington to study Elementary Education and began working at childcare centers. Searching for new ways to help children, she began a self-study of Montessori principles, implementing them in her classrooms and at home with her children.
Porcelain became interested in assisting pregnant women and infants, so she became a birth and postpartum doula. She owned her own doula business and facilitated groups with local agencies for mothers. Her love of Montessori brought her back to the classroom setting, and she obtained her Montessori Certification for Infants and Toddlers. She has worked in a variety of traditional and Montessori schools for over 11 years. She enjoys writing, reading, being in nature, and listening to music.
Favorite educational quote:
“The secret of good teaching is to regard the child’s intelligence as a fertile field in which seeds may be sown, to grow under the heat of flaming imagination.” – Maria Montessori
Porcelain Perkins
Certified Teacher
Lexis Duvall
Teaching Assistant
Email: [email protected]
Lexis Duvall was born in Kansas and moved to Texas at 11 years old where she graduated high school. She started an in-home day care at 19 and a couple of years later she became a substitute teacher while taking prerequisite classes for nursing school. After finishing her prerequisites for nursing, she realized that teaching was her true passion and she decided to change course. After moving to North Carolina with her son, Lexis started working at a learning center where she became an assistant teacher for 18 through 24 months old. She then moved into a lead teacher position in the 3 to 4 year old classroom. Lexis loved working in this age group; and it was an absolute joy to have her own child in her class for a small season of their life.
After researching childhood development, she found herself incorporating the Montessori approach into her classroom environment, starting with grace and courtesy. She decided to find a school that aligned more with the Montessori philosophy. She joined The New School in 2022 and her son Malachi started in Children’s House. She felt she was finally at home surrounded by like-minded individuals. Lexis started in Early Years where she had the opportunity to work and learn from Miss Beth, who helped her transition into the Montessori classroom. Lexis is now working in Nido as an assistant teacher where she truly enjoys her teaching team and watching her students grow at one of the most important stages of her life.
Favorite educational quotes:
“Whoever touches the life of the child touches the most sensitive point of a whole, which has roots in the most distant past and climbs toward the infinite future.” – Maria Montessori
“The child has a different relation to his environment from ours… the child absorbs it. The things he sees are not just remembered; they form part of his soul. He incarnates in himself all in the world about him that his eyes see and his ears hear.” – Maria Montessori
Lexis Duvall
Teaching Assistant
Neena Ramchander
Teacher
Email: [email protected]
Originally from the Washington D.C. area, Neena spent about 17 years there and grew up in a Montessori school herself, which is where her interest in the method began. She graduated from Barton College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. Neena has always had a passion for working with young children.
Neena enjoys cooking and loves going to the beach! Her grandmother is her best friend and the woman that guides her in all things, including education as she once was a teacher herself.
Favorite Educational Quote:
“Our children do not belong TO us, but WITH us. The greatest gift we give them is not a path to follow but a warm shelter to return to as they journey along whatever paths they choose.”- Anonymous
Neena Ramchander
Teaching Assistant
Delfina Vidal Kuker
Teaching Assistant
Early Years Program
Beth Parham
Lead Teacher
Email: [email protected]
Beth is a native North Carolinian. She grew up in Greenville, came to Raleigh to attend Meredith College, and graduated from there with a degree in Child Development. She enjoyed the Raleigh area so much that she stayed and has been here ever since.
She began working at the SAS Montessori School in 1990 and did her AMS Infant/Toddler training at CMTE NY in 1998. She has been with two-year-olds all the way through and is still fascinated with the way they develop, learn, and see the world. Beth loves to laugh, and one of her favorite things is seeing a young child develop a sense of humor.
Outside of work, Beth loves studying the Bible, taking long walks, listening to music, traveling, and hanging out with her friends and family. Her friends are some of the biggest blessings in her life!
Favorite educational quotes:
“I love these little people; and it is not a slight thing when they, who are so fresh from God, love us.” ~ Charles Dickens
“Sometimes you need to talk to a two-year-old just so you can understand life again.” ~ Unknown
Beth Parham
Certified Teacher
Wanda Jones
Classroom Assistant
Email address: [email protected]
Wanda was born in Tubmanburg, Liberia in West Africa. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of Liberia. After fleeing a civil war in Liberia with her young children, Wanda immigrated to the United States in the 1990s.
In 1991, Wanda completed her Childcare Credential Certificate in the state of Maryland starting her decades long career within the field of early childhood education. Wanda and her children settled in Wake County in 1996, where she then completed her North Carolina Early Childhood Education Credential Certificate from Wake Technical Community College.
Prior to joining The New School in 2023, Wanda’s teaching experience includes 15 years as assistant teacher and teacher at the SAS Montessori School.
Outside of the classroom, she enjoys baking, reading, dancing and traveling with her adult daughters.
Favorite educational quote:
“If you think education is expensive, try ignorance.” -Andy McIntyre
Wanda Jones
Teacher
Donna Burrows
Classroom Assistant
Email address: [email protected]
Donna was born in New York and lived in New Jersey with her three children and husband before moving to North Carolina in 2018. She holds a BA in English and a Masters in Reading Specialization. She was a Reading Specialist for seventeen years in NY and NJ before moving to NC. Donna left a job living out her HGTV dreams as a cabinet painter to work for the New School in 2024. Her innate love for helping children learn and grow will always be her forefront passion.
In her free time Donna enjoys spending time with her three adult children, her husband and her Australian Shepherd Milo. She loves spending time at the beach, crafting, woodworking, card-making, reading and traveling.
Favorite educational quote:
“Every child has the capacity to be everything” – Dorris Lessing
Donna Burrows
Teaching Assistant
Amanda Scanlan
Teacher Assistant
Email address: [email protected]
Amanda is from Surrey, England. She attended primary school and university in Redhill, the same town she was born in. Right out of college she worked in a children’s nursery and a nanny for several years. Amanda then wanted to try something new and served as an Emergency Ambulance Technician for almost 10 years, before staying home to raise her four sons.
She is a strong voice for embracing neurodiversity and recognizing strengths of the individual. She feels blessed to be able to step back and watch our infants and toddlers conduct their own research, discover their results and learn at their own pace in our Nido program!
Favorite educational quote:
“Play is the highest form of research” – Albert Einstein.
Amanda Scanlon
Teaching Assistant
Children’s House Program
Abbey Mills
Classroom Assistant
Email address: [email protected]
Originally from the beautiful state of Maine, Abbey moved to Florida after high school to pursue her passion for education. She earned her Associate’s Degree with a focus in Elementary Education and continued her studies at the College of Education before settling in North Carolina.
Abbey’s own school experience was not without its challenges, and that has deeply shaped her approach as an educator. Because she understands firsthand how difficult learning can be for some children, it has become her mission to create an environment where every child feels capable, supported, and confident. She believes that all children can thrive when they are given opportunities to explore concepts in a variety of ways that meet their individual needs.
Through her own educational journey, she discovered the Montessori philosophy and immediately connected with its respect for the child’s unique learning path. Wanting to fully explore and understand the Montessori method—especially how it supports children from infancy through preschool—she began her journey in the Nido classroom at The New School Montessori Center. This experience gave her a solid foundation in the early stages of development and deepened her appreciation for the Montessori approach. It also prepared her to transition into the Children’s House classroom, where she pursued her certification as a Montessorian. The emphasis on independence, hands-on learning, and nurturing the whole child aligned perfectly with her goal of helping children build confidence through discovery. Abbey is grateful to be part of the Children’s House classroom, where she can support young learners as they grow, explore, and uncover their potential at their own pace.
Outside of the classroom, she enjoys a full and active life with her family. Much of her time is spent cheering on her teenage son from the sidelines—whether he’s on the soccer field or basketball court, she’s his biggest fan. She loves playing pickleball with her husband, and is always up for anything competitive, from board games and brain teasers to athletic challenges. She also loves curling up with a good book when she gets the chance. Her home is filled with energy thanks to her two dogs, Henry and Violet, and her cat, Gracie, who keeps everyone in line. Life is busy, fun, and never boring!
Favorite Educational Quote:
“The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn.” – Maria Montessori
Abbey Mills
Certified Teacher (CH1)
Shamira Rizmi
Certified Teacher
Email address: Coming soon
Shamira began her career in early childhood education after earning a diploma in Preschool Education. She went on to establish and successfully operate a small preschool for four years. Seeking new opportunities and broader experiences, she relocated to the United States with her husband to pursue both personal and professional growth.
After settling in the U.S., Shamira dedicated several years to raising her children before returning to her studies. She earned an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Liberal Arts, during which she was introduced to the Montessori method. The philosophy’s emphasis on independence, hands-on learning, and sensory-rich materials deeply resonated with her and inspired her to explore Montessori education more fully.
Shamira pursued her certification through the American Montessori Society (AMS) for children ages 3 to 6. While completing the program, she gained practical experience as an assistant teacher at Montessori Children’s House in Dayton, NJ, and later became a lead teacher at Montgomery Montessori School in Montgomery, NJ.
In 2023, Shamira and her family moved to North Carolina, where she joined Montessori Creative Learning School in Apex as a co-teacher. After a successful year, she stepped into the role of lead teacher for the 2024–2025 school year. Shamira brings warmth, experience, and a deep commitment to the Montessori philosophy to her work with children and families.
Favorite educational quote:
“When a flower doesn’t bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower” – Alexander Den Heijer
Shamira Rizmi
Certified Teacher (CH1)
Laurie Maravillas
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Laurie was born and raised in southeast Virginia by the beach. She graduated from Randolph-Macon College with a sociology degree and two years later with an MSW degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2005.
After working for a few years with older adults in memory care, she and her husband Matthew moved to North Carolina. While their sons were young, she continued her work with older adults through volunteering.
When her oldest son was ready for preschool, she researched and discovered Montessori. The Montessori method quickly became a passion of hers, and she wanted to share it with others. She was drawn to the philosophy’s tenets of respecting and following the child.
Laurie completed her IMC certification through The Center for Guided Montessori Studies in January 2016. She enjoyed being a lead Children’s House teacher at Peace Montessori before joining her sons at The New School Montessori Center as a faculty member in 2020.
She loves watching children learn and thrive within the Montessori prepared environment and encouraging their natural curiosity. It is her goal to help each child in her care to become an enthusiastic lifelong learner.
Outside of the classroom, Laurie loves supporting her sons in their school and community theatre programs. She also enjoys cooking, music, watching movies, and spending time outdoors by the water with her family.
Favorite educational quote:
“Free the child’s potential and you will transform him into the world.” – Maria Montessori
Laurie Maravillas
Certified Teacher (CH2)
Laurel Leavesley
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Born in Tallahassee, Florida, Laurel entered the Montessori experience right away! Her mother was lead guide and Director of the Montessori Developmental school. She thrived with her sister and three brothers growing up with two parents who were invested in this type of philosophy for guiding children.
Those early years of working in a hands-on, diverse learning environment left a very strong impression on Laurel. This solidified her idea of what school was — a fun place to look forward to each day, full of friends young and old who worked together to learn and play. In high school she sang in a competitive choir and learned American Sign Language. Today, she actively incorporates ASL into her teaching in addition to teaching ASL to CH and LE classes. In college, she continued her ASL studies, and was also a member of the Tallahassee State College Dance Company and she continued as an active performing member and choreographer for years after graduating. Before graduating from Florida State University with a B.S. in Child and Family Sciences, and a minor in Education, she also earned her AMS Primary certification. She felt honored to complete this at her Godmother’s school, the Montessori School of Pensacola, that her mother was the co-founder of.
From 2004 to 2011, Laurel was lucky enough to teach alongside her mother at Seminole Montessori School in Tallahassee. In 2011, she moved to Woodbridge, Virginia, just outside of Washington D.C., to work at Cardinal Montessori School. Here she received her AMS certifications in Lower and Upper Elementary at the Barrie School, where she also met her husband Lionel. He had taught for many years in London, England and was contributing a PBL approach for their Upper Elementary program. They visit Washington D.C. often and now enjoy introducing their son London to all the adventures the city has to offer. London also attends The New School Montessori Center and is currently in Lower Elementary. Laurel takes grace and courtesy very seriously and enjoys instilling these qualities into her young learners in both conflict resolution and classroom stewardship. She also loves to incorporate movement, dance, yoga, singing, music, art and nature into learning whenever possible. Laurel enjoys living in North Carolina with her husband Lionel, son London, and their three cats Tiger, Tazzy, and Tabby! She has fond childhood memories of vacationing each summer in Asheville, on camping trips. Laurel embraces being part of a larger Montessori community and delights in working alongside so many talented teachers and enthusiastic Montessorians. Her favorite thing about The New School is having eleven acres of nature to be a resource for the daily education of her students. She enjoys spending her weekends with her son London, being active outside in nature, hiking, going to Lake Jordan, and exploring the many parks and playgrounds the Raleigh area has to offer!
Favorite educational quote:
“Let the children be free; encourage them; let them run outside when it is raining; let them remove their shoes when they find a puddle of water; and when the grass of the meadows is wet with dew, let them run on it and trample it with their bare feet; let them rest peacefully when a tree invites them to sleep beneath its shade; let them shout and laugh when the sun wakes them in the morning .” -Maria Montessori
Laurel Leavesley
Certified Teacher (CH2)
Stephanie Schilling
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Born in Dayton, Ohio, Stephanie moved to Raleigh in 2009. She earned her degree in Early Childhood Education in 2016 and completed her Montessori training through The Greater Cincinnati Center for Montessori Education in 2017.
Stephanie first became interested in Montessori when her youngest daughter was preschool aged. Montessori was a perfect fit for her daughter, and as Stephanie spent time observing the classroom, she discovered Montessori was also the perfect fit for her own teaching philosophy. She loved how respectful and intentional the environment was, and how it supported all kinds of learners.
Stephanie has been a Children’s House lead teacher for over 10 years, and she especially enjoys finding creative ways to engage her students. Stephanie is passionate about creating a warm, respectful, and engaging environment and believes in encouraging independence, nurturing kindness, and igniting a lifelong love of learning.
Outside of the classroom, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her two children, Olivia and Grey, and their two cats, Chai and Matcha. She loves being outdoors, exploring new crafts, and cooking up something fun in the kitchen.
Favorite educational quote:
“The environment must be rich in motives which lend interest to activity and invite the child to conduct his own experiences.” –Maria Montessori
Stephanie Schilling
Certified Teacher (CH2)
Jessica Sippel
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Born in New Jersey, Jessica came to North Carolina with her family in 2011.
Jessica joined the New School community in 2016 and became a member of the CH3 team the following year. She loves working in the classroom with the children and finding new and exciting ways to build their love of learning.
Jessica graduated in May of 2022 from Campbell University with a degree in birth to kindergarten education. Over the last year, she has studied the Montessori Method and Children’s House curriculum with the Center for Guided Montessori Studies, and she has now earned her CH certification.
Outside of the classroom, Jessica enjoys spending time with family and friends. She also loves traveling and binge-watching Netflix series when at home.
Jessica Sippel
Certified Teacher (CH3)
Sydney Price
Certified Montessori Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Sydney was originally born and raised in Topeka Kansas. She and her fiance moved to North Carolina in March of 2024 and they have been loving it ever since! In her free time, Sydney and her family enjoy trips to the beach and exploring the nature trails around the Apex/Holly Springs area. She also enjoys reading, going to the gym, walking her dog Finn, doing yoga/pilates, playing pickleball and of course, shopping!
Her love for teaching began when Sydney started student teaching at a dance studio in Kansas. She then moved to Overland Park, Kansas where she obtained her Associates’ Degree from Johnson County Community College. Sydney came across the Montessori approach to education and knew this was what she needed. She has been teaching Montessori since 2022 and developed a passion for the Montessori method. She loves being able to teach children lessons they will carry with them throughout life.
In 2024 Sydney received her teaching diploma from the North American Montessori Center with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. Maria Montessori has changed childhood education and this methodology is so brilliant in the way the children become independent learners. Sydney loves being a part of a child’s important years of education sparking a life long interest in learning.
Favorite educational quote:
“Do not tell them how to do it. Show them how to do it and do not say a word. If you tell them, they will watch your lips move. If you show them, they will want to do it themselves.” – Maria Montessori
Sydney Price
Certified Teacher (CH3)
Iris McCarthy
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Starting out in Central America, Iris took the long way round via New Jersey and Pennsylvania to finally settle in the southeast. Honduras is her homeland, but Fuquay-Varina is now her home . She went on to get her international Montessori teaching diploma in preschool/kindergarten from NAMC in 2012. Iris worked for 16 years at Little Flower Montessori School in NJ, six years as a teacher assistant and then as a lead teacher for 10 years.
I am passionate about working with children and helping them grow in a safe, positive, and creative environment. I have experience in early childhood education and enjoy creating fun, engaging lessons that help students learn and explore.
I believe in the importance of kindness, patience, and respect in the classroom. My goal as a teacher is to inspire curiosity and confidence in every child while supporting their social and emotional development.
Iris believes in the importance of collaboration with colleagues, families, and the community to ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed and passionate about lifelong learning and is committed to upholding the values and standards of the school.
Outside of work, Iris loves spend time with her family and friends, listening to music, taking long walks and traveling.
Favorite quote
“Do not tell them how to do it. Show them how to do it and do not say a word. If you tell them, they will watch your lips move. If you show them, they will want to do it themselves.” – Maria Montessori –
Iris McCarthy
Certified Teacher (CH4)
Komal Shah
Teaching Assistant
Email address: [email protected]
Komal Shah was born in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and has always found joy in helping young minds grow. With more than 20 years of experience in education, she has taught students from preschool through high school, guiding them in subjects like English, Math, Science, and Hindi.
Over the years, Komal has earned multiple degrees and certifications to strengthen her skills as an educator, from a Diploma in Nursery and Primary Teacher’s Training to a Bachelor of Education and, most recently, an MBA in Hospital and Healthcare Management. Her wide range of training reflects her belief that learning never really stops, for children or for teachers.
She began her teaching career in India, working at Navi Mumbai Vidyalaya for ten years, where she created lesson plans, helped students build curiosity through hands-on activities, and provided individual support whenever needed. Alongside classroom teaching, she offered one-on-one tutoring and online lessons for students up to grade 10.
In 2024, Komal moved to North Carolina and joined The New School Montessori Center as a Teaching Assistant. There, she helps children build confidence and independence through the Montessori approach. She is currently enrolled in a Montessori training program, deepening her understanding of child-centered education and the Montessori philosophy. Through this training, she is learning to create prepared environments that foster independence, creativity, and a love for learning in children. Her studies focus on guiding students through hands-on experiences, respecting each child’s pace, and encouraging their natural curiosity. This journey is enhancing both her professional skills and her personal commitment to supporting holistic child development.
Favorite educational quote:
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” – William Butler Yeats.
Komal Shah
Montessori Intern (CH4)
Jane Dill
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Jane was born in the Philippines. She received a Secretarial Certificate at the University of Mindanao and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Management at the same University. Jane worked at the Parole and Probation Office before receiving her degree. After college she worked in the Department of Engineering at Panabo City Hall for eight years. Ms. Jane moved to the United States in October of 1998. She completed her early childhood certificate in 2007 at Wake Technical
Community College and earned a Montessori diploma in 2010. She has
Been teaching at The New School since 2007.
Her interests include travel, singing karaoke, shopping, Zumba, and watching Asian dramas. She has traveled much of the U.S., Europe, and Asia with her family. Jane’s favorite educational quote below echoes her belief that a clean, beautiful area provides a pleasant environment for children to learn in. She sees a well-equipped learning space as one of those beautiful places.
Favorite educational quote:
“The child should live in an environment of beauty.” – Maria Montessori
Jane Dill
Certified Teacher
Yasmin Khasawneh
Yasmin, originally from Jordan, is a dedicated assistant teacher with a background in psychology from Campbell University. Her experience as a behavioral therapist in ABA has shaped her thoughtful, individualized approach to supporting children’s growth and independence. She embraces the Montessori philosophy, fostering curiosity and confidence through hands-on learning in a nurturing environment.
Yasmin works to create meaningful learning experiences that empower children to discover their unique strengths. She also strives to inspire joy and discovery every day.
Favorite educational quote:
“”Education is the movement from darkness to light” -Allan Bloom
Yasmin Khasawneh
Teaching Assistant
Jake Scheidt
Teaching Assistant
Email address: [email protected]
Jake comes to us as a New School alumni where he had been a student since age five. He has worked on campus in various capacities since moving on to Wake Christian Academy a few years ago. Jake now attends Wake Tech Community College where he is taking basic prerequisite courses as he decides the area he wants to focus in.
When he is not working here as a classroom assistant or as after-school staff support, Jake’s spare time is spent on his collegiate homework, gaming, and the occasional soccer game which is the sport he enjoys the most. One thing he is not known for is that, on one occasion, he suited up as the TNS mascot Talon for a school event and successfully remained incognito, in fact, until this day!
Jake Scheidt
Teaching Assistant
Elementary and MAP Programs
Danielle Beam
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Danielle was born in Florida and raised in central Virginia. She now lives with her family in Holly Springs, North Carolina. Outside the classroom, she enjoys hiking, kayaking, watercolor painting, embroidery, board games, and diving into books—whether curled up with a novel or listening to a favorite audiobook.
She earned her undergraduate degree from Virginia Tech and went on to complete her Montessori training through both the American Montessori Society and the Center for Guided Montessori Studies. She holds certifications spanning from the Children’s House through Upper Elementary levels. A lifelong learner herself, Danielle continually seeks out opportunities to grow—whether deepening her understanding of Montessori philosophy or exploring new ways to support her students’ development.
Danielle joined the TNS community in 2011, beginning her teaching journey in the Children’s House before moving into Lower Elementary, where she continues to support students with great care and curiosity. Her teaching is grounded in a deep belief in the Montessori philosophy and a commitment to nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally. She is passionate about helping students grow into confident, compassionate, and independent thinkers.
Favorite educational quote:
The secret of good teaching is to regard the child’s intelligence as a fertile field in which seeds may be sown, to grow under the heat of flaming imagination. Our aim therefore is not merely to make the child understand, and still less to force him to memories, but so to touch his imagination as to enthuse him to his inmost core.
– Maria Montessori, To Educate the Human Potential
Danielle Beam
Certified Teacher (LE1)
Penny Glover
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Penny was raised in Pasadena, Maryland, and brings a rich and diverse background to her work at The New School Montessori Center. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Sociology from Cedar Crest College in Allentown, Pennsylvania, a Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Capella University, and a Master of Arts in Strategic Policy from the Naval War College. After serving 23 years in the United States Navy, Penny retired in 2022 and began a new chapter in education, joining the team at The New School that same year.
Inspired by the Montessori philosophy and its focus on nurturing the whole child, she committed herself to formal training and is currently completing her certification in both Lower and Upper Elementary education. Penny lives in Fuquay-Varina with her wife, Karre, their four children—Wylie, Braelyn, Lennon, and Callan—and their two dogs, Millie and Frankie. She believes deeply in the power of child-led education and the importance of lifelong learning.
Favorite educational quote:
“When a flower doesn’t bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower.” — Alexander Den Heijer
Penny Glover
Certified Teacher (LE1)
Krista Tsigalnitsky
Certified Montessori Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Krista is a certified Elementary Montessori guide, mama of 2 children, and lifelong learner who brings heart, humor, and a fierce love of kids to her Lower Elementary classroom. She received her AMI and MACTE certification through the Center for Guided Montessori Studies. Krista has spent the last five years guiding 6–9-year-olds with curiosity, compassion, and a healthy dose of cosmic wonder.
Before becoming a Montessori teacher, Krista studied Parks and Natural Resource Management at NC State and has completed extensive coursework toward a second degree in Elementary Education. She’s been a Pre-K teacher, an environmental educator, and now leads a thriving Lower Elementary community where she designs inclusive, hands-on lessons that
honor every child’s unique path, especially those who learn and experience the world differently. A hands-on science enthusiast at heart, Krista believes deeply in the power of outdoor learning. Inspired by Maria Montessori’s belief that “movement is not only an expression of life but a
means of intellectual expression,” she integrates purposeful physical activity into everyday learning.
Her work is grounded in research on outdoor education and in the Montessori understanding that “the hand is the instrument of the mind.” She believes education should be joyful, meaningful, and full of fresh air (literally), and that grace and courtesy are just as important as math facts. She’s passionate about neurodiversity-affirming practices, peace education, and helping kids grow into kind, capable humans—with full buckets and wild imaginations.
When she’s not in the classroom, you can find Krista hiking, reading fantasy and sci-fi, enjoying delicious food, or spending time with her favorite people—family, friends, and fellow curious minds.
Favorite educational quotes:
“We have such a brief opportunity to pass on to our children our love for this Earth and to tell our stories. These are the moments when the world is made whole.” — Richard Louv
“The child who has felt a strong love for the Earth and all that lives on it has all the motivation [they] need to preserve it.” — Maria Montessori
Krista Tsigalnitsky
Certified Teacher (LE2)
Lina Gosrani
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Lina was born in Kenya and moved to the UK for further education. She moved to North Carolina in 1998 with her family and two boys.
Lina joined the New School in 1999 and started her training for Children’s House certification through the Center for Montessori Teacher Education. After becoming AMS certified in July 2000, Lina taught in Children’s House for 23 years. In 2022, she joined the Lower Elementary program.
Lina loves working with children and enjoys every minute working, growing and learning new things with the older children.
In her spare time, Lina spends her time doing yoga, reading, hiking, cooking, travelling and listening to music.
Favorite educational quote:
“What the hand does the mind remembers.” -Maria Montessori
Lina Gosrani
Certified Teacher (LE2)
William Odom
Student Support
Email address: [email protected]
William was born in Charlotte and raised in Kernersville, North Carolina. His first introduction to Montessori was through his mentor and chess coach Jonathan Schroer. Graduating from East Carolina University with a degree in Chemistry, William pursued a short career in pharmaceuticals before coming to the New Montessori Center. William enjoys 3D printing, painting, and chess in his spare time. He aspires to one day achieve a chess title.
William Odom
Teaching Assistant (LE2)
Alli Mapes
Teacher and Language Specialist
Email address: [email protected]
After moving around much of her adult life to cities such as San Diego, Austin, and London, Alli and her family put down roots in Holly Springs during the summer of 2018.
For as long as she can remember, Alli always wanted to have a career in education. After receiving her teaching certification from Virginia Tech, she taught eight and nine-year-olds for four years at an alternative private school and one year of Kindergarten before receiving her master’s degree at the University of San Diego.
Her passion for helping students who have reading and learning challenges took her down the next path of her educational career where for 12 years, Alli worked for a private, research-validated educational company known as Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes. Working with students of varying ages and abilities helped her see that with the right individualized intervention, all students can achieve their potential.
In 2016, Alli was offered the opportunity to set up a small private school in Rockville, Maryland that catered to middle and high school students in need of a different academic setting. As Head of School, Alli was able to provide the same level of care she has been known for giving parents and students in her previous role as Director at Lindamood-Bell.
That same passion she has for helping learners grow and succeed has been brought to The New School. In 2020, Alli joined our team and has since received her Upper Elementary certification. Being part of TNS affords her the best of both worlds. She is, once again, able to be back in the classroom working directly with students and she is also able to differentiate the instruction, which is key to unlocking a student’s potential.
When Alli isn’t working, she enjoys reading, hiking local trails, experimenting with gluten-free baking, walking her dogs Maisy and Stella, and traveling with her husband and two sons.
Favorite educational quote:
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
Alli Mapes
Certified Teacher (UE)
Lisa Jahn
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Lisa grew up in Western Massachusetts, in the beautiful Berkshire hills. After graduating from the State University of New York with her BA in Advanced Technical Theatre, Lisa returned to the Berkshires to work with Shakespeare and Company as a year-round costume designer and technician. Through the company, Lisa was able to work directly with high school students all over the county to help them develop fully staged productions of various Shakespearean plays.
Eventually theatre work brought Lisa to New York City where she worked as a technician and designer for Broadway, fashion, and film. While in NYC, Lisa attended NYU to graduate with her certification in non-profits and arts management.
Lisa moved to North Carolina in 2009 with her husband Mike, and toddler twins, Milo and Lola- now seen occasionally as New School employees!
Lisa has been with the New School since 2011. She completed her AMS Montessori Certification in 2013. Lisa has worked with students from Early Years through the MAP program. She has been in the Upper Elementary program since 2019, and is currently working with Upper and MAP Students.
When not at TNS, Lisa enjoys hiking, kayaking, cooking and bread-making, ‘handwork’, and being on the water pretty much anywhere.
Favorite educational quote:
“Don’t walk in front of me, I may not follow. Don’t walk behind me, I may not lead. Just walk beside me, and be my friend.” ~ Albert Camus
Lisa Jahn
Certified Teacher (UE)
Hayes Way
Student Support
Email address: [email protected]
Born and raised in rural South Georgia, Hayes went on to graduate from the University of Georgia with a B.S. in Mathematics in 2022. Shortly after graduating, he moved to North Carolina to be closer to his girlfriend. He worked in sports analytics and tutoring in the areas of math and SAT prep, before joining The New School in the spring of 2025.
Hayes has always loved teaching. He has included tutoring and teaching jobs in every phase of his life and has worked in one-on-one settings with students ranging from kindergarten through college. He had been considering a teaching career since graduating from college but felt that traditional teaching environments weren’t a good fit for him. When he came to interview at The New School, he immediately fell in love with the Montessori method, the community, and the students at the school. He is now looking forward to his first year in the Upper Elementary classroom.
Hayes has a passion for learning anything and everything and can find joy in reading textbooks on any subject. When he’s not working, Hayes enjoys disc golf, reality television, making spreadsheets, and reading wikipedia articles.
Hayes Way
Montessori Intern (UE)
Linda Wellenius
Language Arts
Email address: [email protected]
Linda comes to North Carolina from Baltimore, Maryland. After graduating from NCSU with a B.S. in Sociology, she began working with North Carolina Teacher Corps to gain her lateral entry teaching license in special education.
Prior to graduation, Linda tutored the student athletes at NCSU, specifically the football and baseball players. She has previously worked for Durham Public Schools at Hillside High School as an inclusion teacher for 9th-12th grade students with mild to moderate disabilities. She is certified to teach K-12 core and content with a focus on special education.
Linda completed the Introductory Adolescent Training with the American Montessori Society in 2017. Currently, she is enrolled with the Center for Guided Montessori Studies to work towards her Montessori certification at the Secondary (12-15) level over the next two years. She looks forward to blending her knowledge of traditional education with the flexibility and creativity of the Montessori philosophy to help grow and improve our adolescent program.
Linda and her husband live in Cary with their sons, Milo and Nils, and their dog Bill. In her free time, Linda likes to garden, read, paint, attend live music shows, cook, and bake among other things. Rumor has it that no one has seen Ms. Linda or Monty (our school mascot) around at the same time, but she swears that she’s not Monty. Keep an eye out for Monty to see if you can figure out the mystery…..
One of the most important things to Linda is the community that she is a part of, whether it is home, school, or friends, and she recognizes how important it is to build and support that community in order for all to benefit from it. She looks forward to watching TNS continue to grow to support the needs of the students, families, and community.
Favorite educational quote:
“We live in a world in which we need to share responsibility. It’s easy to say, ‘It’s not my child, not my community, not my world, not my problem.’ Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes.” – Fred Rogers
Linda Wellenius
Lead Teacher (MAP)
Nicole Seward
Math and Science Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Born and raised in North Carolina, Nikki and her husband live in Fuquay-Varina with their two energetic, young sons, who keep her constantly on her toes and full of fresh ideas. She has spent the past decade inspiring young minds through hands-on learning and curiosity-driven exploration. Since 2020, she has been a dedicated member of the teaching team at The New School Montessori Center, bringing both passion and experience to the Montessori Adolescent Program as a math and science teacher. She has also been an involved member and leader of the school’s STEAM committee and is enthusiastic about bringing STEAM principles to classrooms of all ages.
With a strong belief in Montessori philosophy, she is committed to nurturing independence, fostering critical thinking, and creating an environment where students feel empowered to ask questions and discover solutions for themselves. She has a particular love for problem-solving, puzzles, and riddles, often weaving these challenges into her lessons to make learning engaging and fun, and emphasizes out-of-the-box thinking and reasoning skills. Watching science come to life- whether through a hands-on experiment or a spark of curiosity- is one of her greatest joys as an educator.
Beyond the classroom, Nikki enjoys being active outdoors with her family, tackling escape-room-style games and puzzles, and expressing creativity through a variety of artistic and craft hobbies. With a firm belief that learning isn’t contained by a classroom, she enjoys finding creative ways to bring real-world connections into her teaching and inspiring a lifelong love of learning in every child she works with.
Favorite educational quote:
“The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.” – Plutarch
Nicole Seward
Math and Science (MAP)
Thomas Edwards
Certified Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Thomas brings a unique and passionate perspective to our MAP History classroom, having himself been a Montessori student from Children’s House through the Adolescent Program at Sterling Montessori. This personal experience deeply informs his approach to guiding students through their historical journeys. Thomas further solidified his commitment to Montessori education by earning his Montessori teaching certification in 2023, following an intensive program that began in 2021.
Academically, Mr. Edwards holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Campbell University, awarded in 2011, with a specialized focus on Colonial History and 19th-Century American History. His historical expertise extends beyond the classroom; he previously served as a dedicated museum educator at Mordecai Historic Park and other local museums, bringing history to life for diverse audiences. Thomas joined The New School community in 2021, and he is dedicated to fostering an inquiry-based, engaging, and relevant historical exploration for his students.
Favorite educational quote:
“Lastly, hang tough. Never, ever give up regardless of the adversity” – Richard D. Winters
SRO Bio:
Thomas brings a decade of dedicated public safety and specialized law enforcement experience to his dual role as School Resource Officer (SRO) and Chief of Police for TNS Company Police. Beginning his public safety career in 2013, Thomas has cultivated a wide range of expertise, having served in various capacities including patrol, detective, supervisor, and as a Field Training Officer. Thomas has worked as a law enforcement officer for local, private and state agencies and proudly accepted the 2020 CIT Officer of the Year while serving with NC Central University Police Department.
His commitment to professional excellence is underscored by numerous certifications, including Background Investigator, First Line Supervision, Active Attack Response Instructor, and Crisis Intervention Officer. Thomas holds an Intermediate Law Enforcement Certification from the NC Criminal Justice Standards Commission, demonstrating a high level of proficiency and dedication to law enforcement best practices. In his capacity as SRO, Thomas is deeply committed to fostering a safe and secure campus environment, bridging law enforcement principles with the unique needs of an educational community and ensuring the well-being of all students and staff at The New School.
Thomas Edwards
Social Studies (MAP)
Specialty and Support Staff
Julie Stumpf
Art Teacher
Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, Julie still visits her family in the house in which she grew up. She attended Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, receiving a B.A. in art with minors in art education and art history. Her interest in Montessori education began at this time as her college roommate was studying to be a Montessori teacher.
While at Xavier, Julie met her future husband, Jeff, on a Habitat for Humanity trip. After graduation, she moved back to Louisville to teach at her high school alma mater. Upon marrying, they moved to Bloomington, Indiana, and Julie received her M.F.A in textiles from Indiana University.
Jeff’s work brought them to Cary, North Carolina, in 2006 and they have been here since, having fallen in love with the area. Julie’s various local jobs include managing a running store, teaching at several private schools and at Campbell University, and serving as a juror for the NCSU Art to Wear Fashion Show. After her son Cameron was born in 2010, Julie left the workforce to stay home with him. Melanie was born in 2013, and they welcomed Jillian in 2015.
The interest in Montessori education grew when a traditional classroom was not meeting the needs of her children. Moving them to TNS in 2018 showed Julie what a positive impact a whole-child approach could have. Growing up in an environment enriched with the arts, Julie’s desire is to marry this Montessori approach with her love of art and spark a lifelong interest for the arts in her students.
Julie also enjoys running (having run for XU, IU, and semi-competitively), gardening, designing improvements for her home, and traveling. Watching her children participate in various activities (such as swimming, soccer, and dance) and hanging out with the family dogs, a Dalmatian named Poppy and a beagle named Minnie, are also favorite pastimes.
Favorite Educational Quote
Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once [s]he grows up.
~ Pablo Picasso
Julie Stumpf
Elementary Art Teacher
Hank Faber
Support Teacher
Email address: [email protected]
Hank comes to us by way of Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he was born, and Miami, Florida, where he grew up. He now lives in Raleigh.
Attending UNC and Elon College, he graduated with a B.A. degree in business administration. His four years spent serving in our U.S. Navy sent him to faraway lands such as Iceland, Greenland, Norway, several countries in South America, and the South Pole.
His professional skills were honed early by teaching Sunday School and children’s church, coaching little league baseball, and working with Special Olympics. But 2000 saw him receive his Montessori certification, and he has been teaching Montessori children since that time.
Hank became a teacher because he loves working with children, watching them learn, and seeing their successful transition to higher education and careers. In his words, “It is incredibly rewarding.”
His hobbies include spending time at the beach, playing board games, working word and math puzzles, and reading mysteries.
Favorite Montessori quote is:
“The child is both a hope and promise for mankind.”
Hank Faber
Student Support Teacher
Nancy Faber
Student Support Teacher
Paul Ascolese
Paul has been playing and teaching chess for over 40 yrs and started playing tournament chess in 1979. He still plays actively today!
His debut as a chess teacher began in 1984 for the Police Benevolent Association in Massapequa, NY, and from there he became a chess coach for Friends Academy in Glen Cove, NY, and a high school chess teacher and team coach in Locust Valley, NY.
Paul was the co-founder and owner of the Long Island Chess Center. He also started the American Online Chess Academy with 3 others: Harold Scott, Roger LaFlair. and Joel Benjamin.
He was on a chess team that won the New England Amateur team Championship two years running. Paul’s peak Fide rating was 2275 and his peak USCF rating was 2196.
Paul Ascolese
Chess Instructor
Rachel Woods
Science Teacher
A native of northern California, Rachel earned her B.S. in biology after attending UC Santa Barbara and UNC Chapel Hill. Following her 13 years as a science teacher in public schools and seven more as an informal science educator, she obtained her NC state teaching license, environmental educator certification for NC, and became a NC climate ambassador.
Rachel feels that science at any age is about igniting curiosity about the world and how it works. And more specifically, nature studies should ground a child to the natural world which is a place to question, reflect, enjoy, and retreat to in a busy world.
Her hobbies take in yoga, birding, gardening, and hiking. She shares, “I just love to be outdoors!”
Rachel Woods
Environmental Science
Joshua Jackson
Classroom Assistant
Email address: [email protected]
Joshua was born and raised in Wake county. He and his three younger brothers were homeschooled most of their lives. Josh went to high school and graduated from Southern Wake Academy and is now studying electrical engineering.
In his free time, Josh enjoys playing guitar and piano. He also greatly enjoys playing sports, going to the gym, rock climbing, and roller coasters.
Joshua Jackson
Site Manager
Alex Buccelli
School Psychologist Intern
Email address: [email protected]
Alex is an intern completing the final year of her doctoral training through a consortium placement at Peak City Psychology and The New School
Montessori Center. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in School Psychology at North Carolina State University. Prior to her graduate training, Alex graduated
with honors from the University of Tennessee in 2018 with a B.A. in Psychology and minors in Anthropology and Italian. She then went on to complete her M.S.
in Psychology at Villanova University in 2021. Although she moved to Raleigh for graduate training, Alex has longstanding ties to the Triangle area through
family. Alex’s research and clinical interests focus on supporting resilience in children and families, particularly those navigating loss, transitions, and adversity. She is passionate about taking the time to truly understand each student, family, and larger system to help them meet their unique personal, family, and
educational goals. She enjoys working with parents of all ages in group or family therapy as well as providing individual therapy and assessments for
children through young adulthood. Alex integrates a range of evidence-based approaches and therapeutic modalities in her clinical work, commonly pulling
from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She is a certified Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) provider and a rostered Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
(PCIT) clinician in North Carolina, with additional training in the Toddler adaptation of PCIT (PCIT-T). She especially enjoys supporting co-regulation
and connection in early childhood through play, emotion-regulation and executive function skill building in children and young adults, as well as
students and families navigating school and special education systems. Alex has completed practicum placements or trainings at Wake County Public
Schools, Hope Services LLC, Duke’s Center for Child and Family Health, UNC’s TEACCH Autism Program, Project Enlightenment, and NCSU’s
Psychoeducational Clinic. Alex served as an academic advisor to undergraduate psychology students for three years at NC State before
transitioning to her role as a Clinic Assistant at the university’s Psychoeducational Clinic, where she has provided evaluations, therapy, and
parenting support for the past two years. She also works part-time as a Clinical Research Assessor for the UNC School of Medicine, providing psychological
and developmental assessments in support of longitudinal public health research.
Alex Buccelli
School Psychologist Intern