About Us
WHO WE ARE:
Our Preschool Teachers:
Pegeen Hammer - Pegeen was introduced to the Montessori method of education when her youngest child attended a Montessori preschool. She was fascinated by the Montessori theories and methods and chose to embark on her own path to become a Montessori Early Childhood Educator. Pegeen received her diploma in Montessori Education at Western Montessori Teacher's College and went on to complete her certificate in Early Childhood Education. "I strive to bring to my preschool class a rewarding, hands on learning environment where each child is treated as the wondrous individual that they are. As a Montessori teacher, it is my job to follow the children's special sensitive periods and present learning materials to aid in the accomplishment of independence, competence and confidence."
Kathy Mazurkewicz (ma-zur-ka-wich) - Kathy has been a Preschool Teacher in various Montessori Schools in the Langley area for about 10 years. She is a trained Early Childhood Educator and took her Montessori training at Western Montessori Teachers College. "Hello everyone! Both of my children have gone through Montessori programs and both as a parent and an educator, I can truly see the benefit that the Montessori philosophy has had on my family. I look forward to meeting you and working with your children!" Kathy works in the Preschool classroom every Friday and is available for subbing when necessary.
Gerry Mensch - Gerry has been a substitute teacher in the Preschool since 1997. She brings many years of valuable experience to Meadow Montessori. Born and raised in Holland, she practised as a Montessori Kindergarten teacher for many years in the Netherlands before immigrating to Canada. Once in Canada, she 'Canadianized' her Montessori studies with Western Montessori Teacher's College. It is a special treat for the children when Miss Gerry comes to class as she shares her European songs and stories that they love so much.
Our Elementary Teachers:
Donna McNutt – Donna graduated from Western Montessori Teacher’s College in 1994 and has been with Meadow Montessori School since 1998. She taught in the preschool/kindergarten classroom for seven years and also taught the music program having previously worked as a music teacher for ten years. Donna went on to complete a comprehensive Montessori elementary school training program through Vancouver School Board Training Institute. She began teaching in the elementary classroom in September of 2005 and has her Independent Schools Teaching Certificate.
Bonnie Nussbaumer – Bonnie comes to Meadow Montessori School with many years of teaching experience in the public system. She has her Bachelor of Education Degree and her teaching certificate from the Independent Schools; as well she is a trained Elementary level Montessori educator. She started with Meadow Montessori School in the fall of 2005 in the preschool/kindergarten and then moved to the elementary classroom in the fall of 2006. Effective the 2007/2008 school year, Bonnie is a teacher in the upper elementary program and is also the principal of the school.
Testimonials:
"When our daughter had to go to school we didn’t specifically go looking for Montessori we just knew that “good enough” was not the standard that we wanted to set for our child. I had a horrible experience in public school so I wanted private; Dad had a great experience in public school so he felt differently. I conceded and we visited several public schools. They seemed okay but it was what we heard over and over again from the parents that swayed us toward private school, that statement was, “its good enough.” Just by pure chance, and now extremely thankfully, we found ourselves in a Montessori school and, we will be staying. I can think of no reason why we would give less richness, care, competencies, and growth to our child both as a person and community kid, eventually community adult. We are grateful and forever thankful that Meadow Montessori offers a rewarding affordable learning environment even in these tough economic times. It’s a tremendous school." ~Izabella Roam
"I have found Meadow Montessori to be an asset in my child's educational future. After utilizing the public school system for my two other children I've had a unique opportunity to witness concrete comparisons between the two. My third child has had a superior start to her education in so many ways compared to her siblings.Meadow Montessori offers engaging and linking knowledge and tools that make learning just what it should be. In my opinion, it's been the most comprehensive method and has led to solid mathematical imprinting.Also, as we live in our present global communities, I find the cultural, and geographical understanding/insight components that are taught, empowering. I would highly recommend Meadow Montessori to anyone considering excellence and all who are aware that the first three elementary years are said to predetermine a child's educational achievements in the years to come." ~Joanne Barry
"I shot a recycling video at Meadow Montessori and was thrilled with the creativity of the students. Their ability to improvise and follow direction was advanced beyond their years."
~Daniel Mikolay, Communications Manager Ridge Meadows Recycling Society