Big hearts.
Once little dreamers.

Ms. Jennifer

Head of School

Ms. Jennifer serves as the Head of School at W Montessori Academy. She leads an incredible teaching team who share her commitment to enriching and educating the minds of young children through the Montessori philosophy. She received her Montessori credential from Seton Montessori Institute in 2003 and has nearly twenty-five years of experience leading Montessori and traditional classrooms. As a former Montessori student, Ms. Jennifer is passionate about this method as she believes it emphasizes independence, learning in harmony, and understanding each child’s unique pace of development. She feels very fortunate to call this her job! Ms. Jennifer has two wonderful children of her own, Mia & AJ. In her free time, she enjoys walking, reading and being near the ocean.

Ms. Janell

Administrator & Primary Teacher

With over 34 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, Ms. Janell brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and dedication to her work with young children. She holds an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Early Childhood Administration and an Associate Early Childhood Credential from the American Montessori Society (AMS).

From an early age, Janell was drawn to children—starting with babysitting and playing with the youngest members of her family at gatherings. It became clear to her that working with children was her calling.

Janell discovered the Montessori philosophy while studying early childhood education and was immediately captivated. Observing her first Montessori classroom left a lasting impression: the calm, focused atmosphere, the purposeful independence of the children, and the individualized guidance from teachers stood out as something truly special. From that moment on, she knew she had found her path.

She believes that every child is a unique individual who deserves an environment tailored to their needs, interests, and natural desire to learn. Through thoughtfully prepared environments, the Montessori method encourages autonomy, hands-on exploration, and a limitless capacity for discovery—fostering confidence and a lifelong love of learning.

Outside the classroom, Janell is a proud mother of five boys and grandmother of three. Family is the heart of her life, and she treasures time spent with loved ones. She especially enjoys cheering on her youngest son and husband at their sporting events. Her deep commitment to children’s growth—both at home and in the classroom—shines through in everything she does.

Ms. Jackie

Primary Teacher & Assistant Director

Ms. Jackie developed a passion for education early on and earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, focusing on special needs. She continued her education at Benedictine University and discovered the Montessori philosophy in 2020. Her professional studies have included a practicum through Midwest Montessori Teacher Training Center. She is committed to helping children build academic skills while learning to care for one another and our planet. Outside the classroom, she enjoys rollerblading and spending time with her dog and family.

Ms. Kasia

Lead Pre-Primary Teacher

Ms. Kasia obtained a bachelor’s degree in psychology from DePaul University in 2017. Shortly after she completed her Montessori Infant and Toddler credentials from Seton Montessori Institute. Her passion for Montessori education started after just one visit to a local school where she fell in love with the philosophy and that approach to education. Outside of work, Ms. Kasia loves spending time outdoors with her son and Fiancé. During warm seasons you can find her gardening or going for long walks with her dog, Chocolate.

Ms. Cynthia

Lead Primary Teacher & Director

Ms. Cynthia fell in love with the Montessori philosophy after working in the classroom because it emphasized hands-on learning and encouraged children to question and explore their environment. She believes this philosophy helps children develop critical thinking skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. Ms. Cynthia graduated from Columbia College Chicago in 2017 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. She received her Montessori Credentials from MMTTC in 2023. As a teacher, she is committed to creating a fun, safe, and inclusive learning environment for all students. She believes that every child has the potential to succeed and that as educators, it’s our job to help them reach their full potential. Her goal as a teacher is to inspire and empower her students to become lifelong learners and critical thinkers. When she’s not in the classroom, you can find Ms. Cynthia spending time with her three kiddos, husband and family. They love going on vacations, especially to places where they can ride their ATV’s.

Ms. Mikala

Assistant Primary Teacher

Ms. Mikala wanted to become a Montessori teacher to share her passion for nurturing independence and a lifelong love for learning in young children. Having experienced the Montessori method as a child, she felt a deep connection to its hands-on, child-centered approach. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in education, particularly in the primary classroom for children aged 3-6. She loves teaching because it allows her to guide children in developing practical life skills, confidence, and curiosity about the world. Watching them grow and explore their potential brings her immense joy and fulfillment as a Montessori educator. As a mother and outdoor enthusiast, she enjoys activities like running, biking, swimming, which further fuels her holistic approach to education. Ms. Mikala holds a Montessori Paraprofessional Certificate.

Ms. Hannah

Substitute Teacher

Ms. Hannah holds a Montessori Paraprofessional Certificate and has studied psychology with a focus on child development at Elmhurst University. She values an environment where children feel respected, supported and free to explore their curiosity. Outside the classroom, she enjoys crafts, crocheting and spending time with her two cats.

Ms. Anna

Assistant Pre-Primary & Primary Teacher

Ms. Anna enjoys assisting in both pre-primary and primary levels. She was born and raised in Poland and moved to the United States in 2011. Ms. Anna started her career in May of 2014 at a Montessori school in Chicago. Ms. Anna loves her job! She can see beyond a tough day or unexpected turn. Working at W Montessori Academy gives her the opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives and make a difference every day. Ms. Anna holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education and a Master’s in Physical Education and Sports Management from Wroclaw, Poland as well as a Montessori Paraprofessional Certificate. Ms. Anna loves sports and traveling the world.

Ms. Arleth

Assistant Primary Teacher

Ms. Arleth is passionate about fostering a positive and engaging learning environment. Ms. Arleth holds a degree in International Business and a Montessori Paraprofessional Certification. As an understanding, patient, and playful person, she strives to create a supportive atmosphere for all of her students. She has two beautiful kids who inspire her every day. In her free time, she loves to travel, support her children at their sports events, enjoy a good book, and savor a cup of coffee. Her mission is to foster a love for learning through innovative teaching methods and real-world connections, while respecting each child’s unique learning journey.

Ms. May

Mandarin Teacher & Assistant Primary Teacher

I have five years of experience in early childhood education and hold a B.A. in Business. I’ve always loved watching children grow and make progress, and I find true purpose in guiding young learners as they build confidence and independence. In my classroom, I focus on creating a calm, respectful environment where children feel safe to explore. I support development through hands-on learning that strengthens independence, social-emotional skills, and curiosity. I bring strong communication skills, bilingual ability, and an organized, steady approach, and I enjoy gently guiding children to learn and thrive at their own pace.

Ms. Amanda

Substitute Teacher

Ms. Amanda joined W Montessori Academy as a substitute teacher in September 2026. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Architectural Studies and an architecture license, and is excited to bring her curiosity to early childhood education.

She loves being around children and believes a caring, patient and respectful environment helps them feel safe to be themselves, learn and grow. A quick learner, she looks forward to learning alongside the teaching team. As a child, she dreamed of becoming an artist.

Ms. Bridget

Pre-Primary Assistant Teacher

Ms. Bridget is a Pre-Primary Assistant Teacher at W Montessori Academy. She holds an ECE Level 1 Credential and is a college student studying education. Her interest in early childhood education began with a dual-credit child development course in high school, followed by teaching in an in-school daycare during her junior year.

She enjoys exploring developmental psychology and reflecting on children’s behavior, needs and ways of learning. She approaches education with intention and positivity, believing that every child deserves to feel accepted, loved and supported.

Her goal is to create a classroom where children feel seen and respected, with the freedom to explore at their own pace while developing confidence, independence and a love of learning. Her childhood dream was to become a teacher.