Meet Our Staff
Director
Ms. Cleo
For the past 13 years, I have dedicated my career to working with young children. I received a Master's degree in Education from UW, meanwhile completed AMS credentials for 0-3 years old and 3-6 years old. There is so much to learn about children beyond Montessori philosophy. Therefore, I finished training and obtained the WA State Early Childhood Education Certification (Proficiency Level) and Positive Discipline training for Educators. I Also have completed an Early Childhood Leadership Certificate at the Havard Saul Zaentz Initiative to enhance my ECE leadership skills. During my leisure time, I love to spend time with my family, dance & work out. I have finished 200 hours of yoga teacher training, received young children's yoga teaching certification, and passed RAD Ballet Intermediate level (Merit).
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 Lead
Ms. Linda
I earned my Montessori teacher Certificate in 2019 and worked as a bilingual Montessori teacher for several years. I graduated from Beijing Normal University with a master’s degree in law. My two boys both studied in Montessori school before entering into elementary school. I have a passion for being a Montessori teacher. The Montessori philosophy is a systematic approach to education that draws on the child’s natural development, independence, and confidence and is designed to allow each child to move at his or her own pace.This is why I am so passionate about the Montessori methodologies. There are so many teaching experiences I would love to share
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.
English Primary Lead
Ms.Emily
I am from Wisconsin, moved to Michigan, and now here in Seattle! I enjoy being outside, rollerblading with my dog Romeo, reading, and challenging myself in as many ways as I can. I have been working at a Montessori school since 2021, and ready to continue my career with EMA as it sounds incredible! I received my Montessori Certification and continue to grow and learn in the Montessori world. I am a teacher who is patient, kind-hearted, and understanding. My approach is child-led, challenging children to think outside the box and fostering independence within the child to one day become a part of society and harness real-life skills that they are able to use in their futures
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.
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 on 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 three 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 enrolling Montessori teacher training. 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!
Teacher Assistant
Ms.Cyrene
I hold a degree in Mass Communication and a major in Journalism, and I have spent the last 14 years dedicated to educating and guiding young learners. Throughout my professional journey, I have gained valuable experience in various ECE settings, including Montessori schools. These experiences have fueled my passion for fostering children's development. Providing a belonging and stimulating learning environment for children is paramount to me. I believe in nurturing their curiosity, creativity, and academic growth through a supportive and engaging atmosphere. Currently, I am pursuing my Masters in Education with a focus on Special Education, enhancing my ability to cater to the diverse needs of learners. I look forward to seeing you soon!
Teacher Assistant
Ms. Miao
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!
Teacher Assistant
Ms. Anna
I worked in a Montessori school in Thailand for 2 years and taught young children through hands-on activities. I love teaching children and am passionate about making learning spaces for children that are fun and safe. I like to give each child individualized guidance and support to help them grow and learn. I was born in Myanmar, and I recently moved to the US to pursue my degree in Early Childhood Education at Greenriver College. I want to continue being a teacher here in the US at EMA. While working at EMA, I'm also planning on getting my Montessori Credential. In my free time, I like to go to the gym and play the violin. I’m excited and looking forward to working at EMA.