Our Staff

Ms. Jennifer

Welcome to my passion.

You know you are doing what you are supposed to when you enjoy it, think about it often, can separate it from other parts of your life, and can’t imagine doing anything else.

Greenhouse Montessori was created from a passion for providing an environment for children to learn and have fun. The “greenhouse” was originally a place for children to have themed birthday parties where they could play, interact, and learn, without even realizing that fun and learning could be the same thing. As a former elementary teacher, I incorporated learning, fun, and respect, in my classroom at every opportunity. When it came time for my child to go to school and into the care of others, it was with much trial and error that Montessori Education was found. The idea of giving young children the knowledge to be independent, self-disciplined, focused students who work at their own ability, no matter the age, was very intriguing. As the preschool was started, the Montessori philosophy paralleled my beliefs so much, I then decided to take training to become AMS certified.

Greenhouse Montessori is what I want for my own children, a place of love and learning that encourages discovery and individuality. The learning family that we have at our school is very special. Family involvement is an important part of Greenhouse Montessori and the relationships built among the children, teachers, and families are irreplaceable. This school is as much a part of me that I am of it. I appreciate the importance of the development of the brain from 0-6 years and know that the students in my school are being molded during the time with us.  Our prepared environments both inside and outside help develop the child’s mind, body, and character.

Ms. Theresa

 I am deeply passionate about Montessori education, and I have had the privilege of teaching and directing for over 40 years. My dedication lies in guiding children and staff to discover the excitement, joy, and wonder of learning through the Montessori method.The multi-age classrooms and hands on materials create an environment where children explore, question, and connect with the world around them in a meaningful way. I hold an AMS Montessori Primary certification and have devoted my career to nurturing children's growth and independence through this transformative approach.Currently, I feel fortunate to be part of the team at Greenhouse Montessori, where we not only offer beautiful, authentic Montessori classrooms but also provide a rich outdoor natural environment that further inspires curiosity, peace, and discovery

 

Ms. Julie

Hello, I am Ms. Julie, I have been at Greenhouse for a little over 10 years. My life’s journey as a Montessorian began when I accepted a position at Greenhouse Montessori as an assistant in the toddler’s classroom.  I found that my personal attributes, intuition, and core person were well suited for this position.  A year later, I accepted the lead teacher position with the expectation that I could expand on the indoor and outdoor curriculum while meeting the needs of each individual toddler in my care. I took on that challenge and nine years later I met and exceeded those expectations and have been branded by my students’ parents as “The Toddler Whisperer”. 

 I was given the nickname “the toddler whisper” for the way I easily connect with toddlers. By nurturing the whole child, you become their voice as they learn to communicate their feelings through sounds and body language. Representing their best interests by giving them tools to verbally communicate their feelings results in their ability to have positive social experiences, which leads to a community of thoughtful, independent toddlers.

Greenhouse is not just a job to me, but my home away from home where I can create a safe haven for your little one.

Ms. Connie


I am Connie Starr and I have been teaching for 30 years. I have a degree in Sociology, another in Elementary Education, a Master's Degree in Elementary Education, A.M.I Montessori certification in Primary Education and an A.M.S. certification in Elementary Education. I have taught in public, charter and private schools in Arizona, New Jersey and Texas. Over the years I have learned that the Montessori method is superior above all others. It is a heart-filled, soul-touching method of learning that not only enriches the child's psyche, but enhances their character as well. I am thrilled to be a part the Greenhouse Montessori community!

Ms. Andrea

I’m Ms. Andrea and I bring a passion for hands-on learning and a heartfelt belief in the Montessori philosophy to our classroom community. I was born and raised in the valley, and hold a Bachelor’s Degree of Elementary Arts from Arizona State University. I began my teaching career in public school as a math educator before discovering the transformative approach of Montessori education. I recently earned my certification from the American Montessori Society, and have been committed ever since to nurturing young learners through curiosity, independence, and joyful discovery.
Following the mantra, “If all children started in Montessori, the world would be a better place,” I am dedicated to serving as many families as possible and creating a nurturing, inspiring environment where every child can thrive.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy crafting, gardening, writing, and building—activities that reflect the same creativity and exploration she brings to my teaching.

Ms. Zinat

Zinat Ahmed – Montessori Educator
I’m a Montessori-certified teacher originally from Bangladesh.I hold a Master’s in Early Childhood Education from the University of Dhaka (2009) and earned my Montessori diploma from the Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies in Mesa (2020–2021).

Since 2016, I’ve enjoyed guiding young learners, fostering independence, and nurturing peaceful, curious, and responsible individuals. I’m passionate about observing each child’s unique interests and helping them grow in a prepared, caring environment.

Outside of teaching, I love traveling, reading, exercising, decorating, gardening, and spending time with my husband and son.
Hello! I’m Zinat Ahmed, originally from Bangladesh and currently living in Gilbert, Arizona with my husband and son. I am a Montessori-certified teacher at greenhouse Montessori academy where I teach in the Primary 2 classroom. I love working at Greenhouse Montessori Academy because of the supportive and helpful team. It truly feels like being part of a warm, welcoming family community.


My journey in education began in 2016, and it has been a joy to guide and nurture young minds ever since. I hold a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Dhaka, completed in 2009. After moving to the United States, I pursued my passion for child development further and fell in love with the Montessori philosophy. I earned my Diploma from the Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies in Mesa during 2020–2021.

What I love most about the Montessori approach is observing each child to discover their unique interests, helping them grow into independent learners, and guiding them to become peaceful, self-reliant individuals who care for themselves, their environment, and the world around them.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy traveling, reading, exercising, decorating, gardening, and most of all, spending quality time with my family.

Ms. Swati

I’m Ms. Swati, I have over 15 years of experience working with both toddlers and preschool aged children. I have a deep appreciation for the Montessori method, particularly the sensorial and language materials, which offer children rich, hands-on experiences that foster whole-brain developmentI find great joy in guiding children through these materials, as they allow for purposeful, accelerated learning. Watching children grow in confidence and independence through this approach is truly rewarding. The progress they make—both academically and personally—is nothing short of amazing.

Ms. Amanda

I’m Ms. Amanda, I, like Ms. Jennifer, wear many hats here at Greenhouse, but most know me as the lady behind the computer. In Spring of 2017, an opportunity fell in my lap to join Greenhouse Montessori as a teacher’s assistant in the Primary classroom with Ms. Jennifer and as soon as I stepped foot in the play yard, I knew this was the place for me!

I was a Montessori child myself, although only attending a Montessori class for a year, my mom always implemented Montessori philosophy at home with making sure my needs academically were met/challenged to what I needed as an individual. I start of my college years as an early childhood major and wanted to be an educator since age 5. I have worked in many school/childcare environments, from nannying to preschools to summer camps to even high school ages and through all that I have always loved everything about Montessori and knew that I wanted to be more involved with a Montessori School. After many years and a few rocks thrown in my path my passion has shifted from solely being a teacher to other things. Leading me to finishing my studies in Communications instead, I am currently a student Grand Canyon University (Go Lopes!). I hope to bring both my studies and the philosophy of Montessori into play wherever I may go. But for now, my heart is here, at this amazing school.

I have grown a lot while at Greenhouse, got married, bought my first home, and became a mother myself. The community of staff and parents has been a big part of whom I have become during my early adult years, and I couldn’t be more thankful. This community and seeing how the students grow and transform before my eyes is my favorite part of my job. The magic of Greenhouse is real, and I cannot wait for my own child to attend this special place.

Ms. Aimee

I’m Ms. Amiee