Meet Our Staff
Director
Ms. Cleo
Hi everyone, I received my bachelor’s degree which included a teacher-training component in China. After graduating, I worked at the New Oriental School as an English teacher in Beijing. In 2015, I came to the US and later worked at the Bellevue School District. After visiting an AMS Montessori school I was moved by the Montessori philosophy. This powerful experience led me to enroll and complete my AMS credential. I am very passionate about early childhood learning and have dedicated my life to promoting education and social development. I obtained the WA State Early Childhood Education Certification (Proficiency Level) and Positive Discipline for Educators Certification. To enhance my professional development, In 2021 Spring, I enrolled in my master's degree program at UW. In 2023, I obtained an Early Childhood Leadership certificate at the Havard Saul Zaentz Initiative. Meanwhile, I started Montessori Infant and Toddler teacher training at MEIPN.
Program Coach
Ms. Ashley
I was born and raised in Washington State finished my master’s degree in Education and International Development at UW and have 8 years of experience working in education. I am an EMA Early Achievers' Coach with Child Care Resources (BrightSpark). I have been passionate about education for as long as I can remember. I will employ evidence-based coaching tools to provide valuable guidance and support to EMA's early learning staff, facilitating their employee development fostering an environment of continuous improvement, and maintaining EMA's high-quality early learning programs. I look forward to working together with EMA.
Bilingual Primary Lead
Ms. Shullen
I was born and raised in Guangzhou, China, earned an AMS Montessori Certificate in 2020. I have a background in Psychology and Education and worked as a Lead Teacher within a Montessori classroom for several years. I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Master’s Degree in Education. I believe the power and potential within children and love supporting children in blooming with their own talents. I am excited to join Evergreen Montessori Academy and being a part of this warm family.
Toddler Lead
Ms. Cannyon
I am Originally from the state of Missouri and trained Violinist. I started my adventure of working with children in 2013 and have been a lead toddler teacher for the past 4 years. In my continuous pursuit of knowledge on subjects that fascinate me, I am currently working towards my Montessori Certification! Forming a solid bond and sense of trust with each child as an individual is very important to my teaching and care philosophy as learning happens best in an encouraging and safe environment. I am passionate about the Whole Child Approach and facilitating play and interest-based learning, promoting independence and celebrating as real-world skills and connections form through it.
Toddler Lead
Ms. Lorna
I’ve been working at EMA for two years and have a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. After graduating, I started as a toddler lead teacher at Childcare Center. My desire to challenge myself and grow led me to Evergreen Montessori Academy. My time here at EMA reaffirmed my passion for working with children and clarified why I chose this as a lifelong career. Thus, I am enhancing my education by acquiring a Montessori certification. I aim to continue learning and growing to provide high-quality care and education. I was born in Alabama and spent my more informative years living in California, and now I am in Washington! In my free time, I like to read and hike. I am excited about what each new school year brings and hope to meet you!
Toddler Co-Lead
Ms.Vijay
I have completed a Master's degree in Education, Economics, and Business Administration with a passion for early childhood development. I have been dedicated to this field in India since 2007.
My commitment to fostering positive learning environments and enhancing educational experiences for young minds continuously motivates me to work with them. In the USA, I have been working in early childhood since 2020 and have completed CDA specializing in infants and toddlers. I have a passion for pursuing the Montessori certification, and I am excited to work at EMA, which will help to further my educational pursuits. I look forward to working with each of you in caring for your little ones.
Teacher Assistant
Ms. Miaomiao
I graduated from the UW with a Master's degree in Learning Science and Human Development. Since then, I have been dedicated to my role as an early childhood educator. Fluent in Mandarin and English, I bring a rich cultural and linguistic background to my teaching approach. I am an avid nature enthusiast and love exploring the great outdoors. Accompanying me on my adventures is my beloved dog, Ganzhe, reflecting my deep love for animals. In my free time, I enjoy crafting, which enhances my joy in learning and teaching.
I am excited to join EMA's community and look forward to creating meaningful and engaging learning experiences with our young learners!