Faculty & Staff
We believe that great teachers are our best asset.
At Busy Hands Montessori, we believe our greatest strength lies in our dedicated, highly trained teachers and staff—passionate professionals who embody our mission, values, and love for children..
Administration
Jessica G.
Founder & Head of School
I hold a B.S. in Social Science from Portland State University, where I am currently enrolled in the MBA program. I hold a Montessori Leadership Credential from the International Montessori Council. I also have an Associate’s Degree in Aviation Science from Portland Community College and hold a private pilot’s license. I have worked in education for 25 years—first as a school administrator for 15 years at a Montessori school owned by my mother, and for the past 10 years as the owner and Head of School at Busy Hands Montessori.
I enjoy leading our staff and guiding them toward alignment with our mission and values. As a “big picture” person, I find meaning in strategic planning and navigating the many challenges that come with owning and leading a Montessori school. While I love working with teachers and administrators, my greatest joy comes from being around the children. They are joyful, honest, and loving—the best qualities of humanity wrapped up in so much potential. Watching them thrive in our classrooms and benefit from the guidance of our incredible staff is the most gratifying part of my work. This quote from Montessori's lectures deeply resonates with me: “Averting war is the work of politicians; establishing peace is the work of education.”
I hope that both children and adults in our community feel empowered by their time at Busy Hands. I want the children graduating from our school to know their worth, value, and to be confident in their voice - feeling confident in speaking up and advocating for themselves and others. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our two children, and our two dogs. I love reading, cross-stitching, practicing yoga and Pilates, and playing violin with my children. I am also a classically trained violinist and board member of the Metropolitan Youth Symphony—the group I once played in as a child—I take great joy in seeing both of my children now carry on that tradition as part of the symphony.
Shauna S.
Office Administrator
I have been working with children since I was 19 years old—19 years now! After briefly stepping back from the field, I discovered Montessori and was drawn to its fresh perspective and deep respect for children. I have been at Busy Hands Montessori for the past four years, and I love seeing students thrive in an environment that allows authenticity and vulnerability. My favorite Montessori quote is: “Education is the best weapon for peace.”
What I cherish most about my work is the feeling of being understood and treated as an equal—something we strive to create for each child every day. Montessori offers children the chance to be themselves fully, and it’s inspiring to watch their independence, confidence, and individuality shine.
Outside of school, I enjoy volunteering with a variety of organizations, cooking and baking, and supporting women-owned local business.
Richelle W.
Young Children's Program Director & Chickadee Classroom Lead Guide
I am a MACTE accredited Infant and Toddler Guide holding a Montessori Teaching Certification from The Center for Guided Montessori Studies and from the North American Montessori Center. I have been working in education for 15 years, beginning in a traditional childcare setting before discovering Montessori through a family I worked with. I enrolled in a CGMS Montessori Beginnings course to learn more, and it was truly life changing. What drew me most to Montessori was the belief that children are limited only by their environment—and that the adult must be as carefully prepared as the classroom itself. I have been with Busy Hands since October 2018.
One of the most rewarding parts of my work is seeing a child’s visceral reaction to their own achievements in real time. My favorite Montessori quote is from The 1946 London Lectures: “Clearly we have a social duty towards this future man, this man who exists as a silhouette around the child, a duty towards this man of tomorrow. Perhaps a great future leader or a great genius is with us and his power will come from the power of the child he is today. This is the vision we must have.” I hope that beyond any specific skill, the children who leave my classroom carry with them the knowledge that they are loved, a strong sense of belonging, and the confidence and self-reliance to thrive in any future space.
Outside of school, I enjoy crocheting, drawing portraits, reading, singing, and baking. I also treasure time with my fourteen-year-old daughter and my large family, which includes a twin brother and five other siblings! What I value most about Busy Hands is our incredible staff community. We share ideas, talents, and experiences generously, supporting each other with dedication and a growth mindset. It is inspiring to be part of a team where we truly celebrate and learn from each other’s successes.
Deidre R.
Chickadee Classroom Teaching Partner
I finished high school in Florida and spent 12 years as a stay-at-home mom before beginning my work in education. I completed the Montessori Beginnings course through The Center for Guided Montessori Studies and have now been in the education field for 8 years. I was drawn to Montessori because of its focus on independence, respect, and hands-on learning—values that align closely with my own. Supporting each child’s natural curiosity and helping them grow into confident, capable individuals is what inspires me most.
The best part of working in a Montessori classroom is seeing the little sparks of excitement when children discover they can do something on their own. Montessori gives them the space to explore and the tools to grow at their own pace, and it’s such a joy to witness those moments. I especially enjoy the Practical Life materials—whether it’s pouring, sweeping, or preparing food—because they provide real-life skills while fostering focus and independence. My hope is that each child leaves my classroom feeling proud of what they’ve accomplished and excited to keep learning.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, cooking, and being outdoors. A fun fact about me is that I love singing French children’s songs I learned while working in a French immersion daycare. I feel grateful to be part of such a warm, collaborative community where children are supported in exploring, learning, and building confidence every day.
Stephanie D.
Dogwood Classroom Lead Guide
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies with a focus in Public Health. In May 2022, I completed my Montessori Beginnings certificate and I am now nearing the end of my Montessori Infant and Toddler Certification course. I began working in the education field in 2021, and when I first observed a Montessori classroom, I was amazed by how capable children are from such a young age. Too often, society underestimates children because of their age, but in Montessori I see every day how independent, confident, and loving they can be.
One of my favorite parts of teaching is building deep connections with each child and witnessing their personalities flourish in an environment carefully prepared for their independence. I love seeing children not only retain what they learn but also joyfully teach their peers, stepping into leadership roles with confidence. Some of my favorite classroom moments come from food preparation and food science activities—they provide endless opportunities for curiosity, language, and practical skills. My favorite Montessori quote is: “The greatest sign of success for a teacher... is to be able to say, ‘The children are now working as if I did not exist.’”
I hope every child in my classroom discovers how truly capable they are of achieving whatever they set their hearts and minds to. I want them to feel both the independence and the confidence to do things for themselves, as well as the love and care I hold for each of them. Outside of school, I enjoy cooking, baking, painting, trying new restaurants, playing board games, and spending time at the beach with my husband and our two French Bulldogs, Gracie Lou and Frankie Jo. A fun fact about me is that I am a distant relative of the British Royal Family through Prince Charles Spencer! I also deeply value the strong, supportive community we have at Busy Hands and the unwavering loyalty we share to one another and our school.
Pilar H.
Dogwood Classroom Teaching Partner
Although I don’t formally hold Montessori certifications, I am classified as Step 7 on the Oregon Registry and bring over 25 years of experience in early childhood education. Within that time, I have gained more than 6 years of direct experience in Montessori schools, where I’ve had the opportunity to put Montessori methods into practice. I deeply appreciate the Montessori approach, and it is so rewarding to watch the growth, development, and independence of children in this environment.
What I love most about Montessori is seeing children grow into confident, well-rounded individuals who feel proud to do things on their own. My favorite Montessori quote is “Help me do it alone!”—a phrase that beautifully reflects the independence I hope to nurture in every child. Above all, I want the children in my care to leave with confidence and curiosity that will guide them as lifelong learners.
Outside of school, I enjoy going for walks, cooking, playing board games with my daughters, and spending time with my family. A fun fact about me is that my first language is Spanish! One of my favorite parts of being at Busy Hands is the consistent, happy environment we create together as a community.
Alyssa H.
Dogwood Classroom Teaching Partner
I hold a B.S. in Child Development and have been working in education for almost two years. I was lucky that my very first teaching experience was as an assistant in a Montessori Primary environment—and I fell in love instantly! In college, I never thought I would work in education, but once I stepped into a Montessori classroom I realized I had found my path. I am drawn to Montessori because of its focus on nurturing a child’s natural development and connecting them meaningfully to the real world.
What inspires me most is seeing what children can do when given real materials and freedom within limits. Their capability and creativity never cease to amaze me, whether it’s a unique way of combining materials or the deep concentration they bring to their work. My favorite Montessori quote is: “Of all things, love is the most potent.” I believe the most important gift we can offer children is love—love for people, love for learning, and love for life. I hope every child who passes through my classroom develops a true love for learning, a respect for the natural world, and the confidence to be their own individual.
Outside of school, I enjoy being outdoors with my dog, painting, and embroidering. I especially love camping with my family and spending time at the coast. Gardening is also a passion of mine—I miss the gardens I had in Boise more than anything! I feel so grateful to be part of the Busy Hands community; the knowledge and experience of my coworkers have already taught me so much, and I am excited to continue learning alongside both the children and this amazing team.
Alicia S.
Classroom Aide - Young Children’s Classrooms
I completed nanny school in 2003 and have spent many years working as a nanny as well as being a stay-at-home mom. While I have always loved working with children, I was ready for a change when I saw this job opportunity and I feel so lucky to have found this position. Working at Busy Hands has been such a joy, especially watching children grow in independence and helping them discover that they are capable of so much on their own.
What I love most about working with children is seeing them feel both independent and deeply loved. I’ve often been told that I have a special gift for calming children quickly—my family even calls me the “baby whisperer”! It’s incredibly rewarding to support children in building confidence while knowing they are cared for and understood.
Outside of school, I enjoy camping, sewing, reading, and DIY projects. I also love how friendly and supportive the Busy Hands community is, with everyone eager to learn more about Montessori, together.
Primary
Ashley C.
Meadowlark Classroom Lead Guide
I have been part of Busy Hands since 2019, first joining as an assistant in the Toddler Classrooms! After working as a Teaching Partner for several years, I began my Montessori training in 2023 with the Center for Guided Montessori Studies. In January, I completed my MACTE certification and stepped into the role of Lead Guide in the Meadowlark Classroom. My goal as an educator is to create a classroom where every student feels like a valued member of the community and has the freedom to explore and learn according to their own needs and interests.
Outside of school, I live with my husband, our two children, and our two dogs. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, reading, and practicing yoga. I feel very fortunate to partner with families in supporting their children’s growth into bright, creative, and empathetic human beings.
Christine M.
Hummingbird Classroom Lead Guide
I’m originally from Sacramento, California, and first visited Portland in the fall of 2017, when I quickly fell in love with the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. In 2019, my husband, our cat, and I packed up for a new adventure and moved to Portland, where we’ve been happily ever since.
My original plan was to become an elementary teacher, but life took me on a different path. I began teaching young children in 2017 at a Reggio-inspired, play-based school. As a lover of fiber arts, children’s books, and art, I enjoyed creating open-ended curriculum that allowed children to explore different art processes and introduced them to children’s literature through monthly author studies. It was during an ECE college course that I first learned about Montessori, but it wasn’t until 2020, while working in a small in-home Montessori school, that I truly fell in love with the pedagogy. I went on to complete my AMI 3–6 Primary training at Montessori Northwest here in Portland in 2022.
I have always had a deep-rooted passion for fostering a love of learning in young children, and it brings me so much joy to watch each child discover their own excitement for exploration. I am thrilled to be joining the Busy Hands community, and even more excited that my two children will also be starting in the toddler community alongside me.
Chloe G.
Hummingbird Classroom Teaching Partner
I hold several Montessori certifications, including Montessori Beginnings through The Center for Guided Montessori Studies, Positive Discipline, Biting Hurts, and more. I have also completed the AMI Primary Assistant course. I’ve been working in education for five years, starting at a non-Montessori school, and discovered Montessori through a coworker. The more I learned, the more I fell in love with the Montessori approach, which shows children deep respect and offers a kind, individualized path to learning.
I’ve been at Busy Hands for almost four years, and what I enjoy most are the conversations with children. They ask such thoughtful questions about the world around them, and I love watching their eyes light up as they learn. One of my favorite Montessori quotes is: “Never help a child with a task in which he feels he can achieve.” I especially enjoy Practical Life works like brass polishing, table washing, and food preparation—it’s inspiring to see the pride children take in their independence.
In my classroom, I hope children develop independence and kindness toward themselves and others. Outside of school, I enjoy walking in nature, crafting, creating new things, and learning. A fun fact about me is that as a child I collected rubber ducks—I had a huge container filled to the top with them!
I love being part of the tight-knit community at Busy Hands. Everyone is so kind, supportive, and happy to be here, and our families truly make this a special place.
Maya M.
Classroom Aide - Primary Classrooms
I recently completed my Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Portland Community College, and my plan is to transfer to Portland State University to finish my Bachelor’s while continuing to gain experience in Montessori education. I’m also a proud plant mom to many, and I share my home with two pet rats named Mr. Purple and Ruckus.
I was born in Las Vegas and lived there until I was seven, when my family moved to Los Angeles. I have lived in Portland for almost six years now! In Los Angeles, I attended a Waldorf school called Mariposa from fourth through eighth grade, where I fell in love with its artistic and holistic approach to learning. My middle school teacher inspired my passion for education through her empathy and care, showing me just how impactful an educator can be. At Mariposa, I developed skills I still enjoy today—sewing, knitting, cross stitching, watercolor painting, thoughtful writing, and meaningful discussion. Those experiences continue to influence my hobbies and passions, from painting and photography to traveling and spending time in nature. One of my proudest accomplishments was saving for two years after high school to take a two-month road trip across the country, visiting 22 states!
I am beyond excited to begin this next chapter of my journey in Montessori. I look forward to helping children grow in independence while continuing to learn from them every day.
Sarah K.
Classroom Aide - Primary Classrooms
I hold a B.A. in Psychology from Portland State University, with an emphasis in child development, and I have been working in education for about four and a half years. I was drawn to Montessori because I love how it gives children the freedom to explore their full potential in ways that differ from traditional teaching. Over the past four years at BHM, I’ve had the joy of working in both toddler and primary classrooms, watching children grow from curious toddlers into confident preschoolers and kindergarteners.
One of my favorite parts of teaching is watching children accomplish something new that they didn’t think they could do on their own. I especially enjoy the sewing works—being the child of a seamstress, it’s amazing to see young children learning a skill that connects so strongly to my own background. My hope is that the children in my classroom leave with kindness and empathy for their classmates, along with confidence in their independence.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my one-year-old nephew, building Lego sets, and learning how to garden. I love being part of a community where I can witness and support children’s growth every day, and where we celebrate their independence and individuality together.
