Toddler Director: Ms. August

Hello! I am Ms.Sue and have been working in Montessori classroom with children since 2013. It has been great joy to work in Montessori classroom where children are accepted for who they are and challenged to become the best possible person. I truly enjoy watching children gaining independence and blooming in their own. I aspire to observe where each child is and bring adequate topics or materials to better their growth. As a teacher and a mom of two, my mission is provide the best start to a lifetime of learning. I am very honored to be in beginning of your child’s journey into the world.

Ms. Gina is a dedicated Montessori lead teacher with an AMS training background, and entrepreneur. She is passionate about fostering growth in both children and animals. Ms. Gina is an early educator with almost 20 years of experience. With expertise in communication, leadership, and classroom management, Gina creates an engaging, developmentally appropriate learning environment that encourages independence, curiosity and compassion. She loves working with her team and parents to embark on a journey of exploration, development and fostering a love for learning. Besides work , Gina loves to spend time with her family and enjoy traveling.  

Hello, my name is Caity Carrillo and I am the lead teacher of the Elephant toddler classroom. I graduated from Oregon State University in June 2023 with a BA in science. I majored in biology with a pre-education option. Previously, I worked at Linn-Benton Community College where I was an assistant volleyball coach and a tutor in psychology, chemistry, and biology. I have always loved working with kids and I am passionate about supporting the development of their purpose, identity, and self-regulation. Currently, I am taking courses through MEIPN to gain my certification as a Montessori lead teacher. Even though I am not yet certified, I have gained lots of experience working under our Toddler Director, August Teng, and I am continuing to learn about Montessori philosophy through class work and classroom experience. Outside of the classroom I enjoy playing volleyball, making puzzles, cooking and gardening. My goal is to bring my passion for learning to the classroom to support the individual growth and development of each child that enters my classroom.

Hello, my name is Alisa!

I was born and raised in Japan and moved to Seattle in 2023. 

I graduated from Kwansei Gakuin University with an early childhood education bachelor’s diploma in 2021.

Through my education, I began to earn interest in the Montessori Method and I am really excited to start my journey as lead teacher at Avocado Montessori Academy!

I really enjoy seeing children smile wide when they see their parents come pick them up. I want to support children to feel happiness and joy through learning and playing with friends and teachers, so that they may go home with a big smile on their face:)

In my spare time I enjoy playing with my two beautiful cats, traveling, reading, and studying Spanish!

Hello! My name is Ms. Miku and I am very excited to be a part of Avocado Montessori Academy!

 Growing up exposed to many different languages in my life, I have a deep passion for language learning and feel the importance of having exposure from a young age. I have also always had an interest in working with children, previously in high school and university, I had the opportunity to student teach in a 4th-5th bilingual classroom. I began working with toddlers 3 years ago and have loved the experience ever since. I love that I am able to assist the children as they learn the necessary tools in becoming independent!

Hello, my name is Cathy, and I’m thrilled to be joining Avocado Montessori Academy! I grew up speaking three languages, which has given me a strong appreciation for diversity and communication. I absolutely love working with children and have over four years of experience with toddlers, preschool, and pre-K age groups. Being around kids brings me so much joy, and I’m passionate about helping them learn, grow, and thrive. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, traveling, and relaxing. I’m excited to bring my enthusiasm and experience to this amazing community!

Hi I’m Vanessa Valdespino, I came into this school with a passion to help kids grow. I have always loved being around kids and i find it really inspiring to see how fast they learn and grow within the right environment. This is why I understand the values this Montessori academy has and why I will stand by them. I don’t have much experience working with kids, but I have learned a lot about the Montessori technique and have seen how this Montessori academy has helped your kids learn more about their potentials and what they strive for. I am excited to see how they develop over the years.

Hello! My name is Emily Chan and I am very excited to be a part of the team at Avocado Montessori Academy. I was born and raised in Hong Kong and I graduated from the University of Washington in 2018 with a BA in Communications and a minor in Education. I am also a certified Montessori teacher holding both AMS (0-3 Years) and AMS (3-6Y) Montessori Teacher Certification from MEIPN.

I enjoy working with children and I have over 7 years of experience teaching in a Montessori environment in Seattle and Hong Kong. I believe through careful observation and well-prepared environment, children can thrive and develop to their full potential. I strive to encourage independence and a love of learning in my classroom and I am very excited to work with in the preschool class in AMA!

I am Maggie, a graduate of the University of Washington with a major in Communication and Education. I volunteered extensively at two public elementary schools in Seattle during my undergraduate years. After gaining work experience, I pursued a Master's in Teaching at Seattle University to further my passion for education. I now hold a graduate diploma in education and a teacher's certificate in Washington state. I am thrilled to be a part of AMA, where I can learn and grow alongside my students and colleagues in the Montessori environment.

Hello, My name is Mia, I have more than 3 years of experience in the early educational field and this is my first year working at AMA. I used to work for a public school preschool program with 4-5 year age kids. I finished my bachelor's degree in China and associate degree in Dallas.

My two boys are now growing out of the 1-6 year age group so it is nice to have that constant here. The conversations that I have with the kids are the most fun parts. I love how trusting they are and they can come to me about anything. I love working at AMA because it’s a very warm and welcoming place. The first day I worked here I saw teachers and kids running around at the playground, having big smiles while riding ponies and dancing in the bubbles. I know this is the working environment that I want to stay in. I feel blessed to get to come to school everyday to see the joy of learning and exploration of ingenious materials.

Hello, my name is Allijah (pronunciation: uh-lie-yuh), and I am the English teacher on the Bee Preschool team. I was born, raised, and studied here in the Seattle area, where I also had the privilege of growing up in a Montessori school, which inspired my passion for this unique approach to education. I began working in Montessori education in 2019 and have since continued to deepen my understanding of children’s individual developmental journeys. I am passionate about teaching and supporting each child’s growth, appreciating the uniqueness in how they learn and thrive. As an English teacher, I strive to create a nurturing and engaging environment where children feel confident and excited to explore a new language. Seeing my students grow and flourish in their language development is both rewarding and inspiring, especially when children find the joy in learning something new.

Hello, my name is Joy, and I am the preschool lead teacher at Avocado Montessori Academy. I have been working in Montessori classrooms with children aged 2.5 to 6 years old since 2019 and earned my Montessori certification during this time. In March 2022, I joined AMA Team.

I am deeply committed to fostering independent and confident learners. The Montessori method’s child-centered approach allows me to guide each child according to their unique needs and strengths, creating a joyful and enriching educational experience.

I look forward to supporting your children’s growth and development through their time at AMA.

Hi, my name is Siree, and I am very excited to join the Montessori community at the Avocado Montessori Academy. I had experience working with young learners aged 6-10 as an English Teaching Assistant and a private English tutor in Laos. The goal was to help them speak English confidently and independently, which shares some of the great qualities in the Montessori Method, where we aim to prepare the right environment where children can strive and develop themselves to their fullest potential with love and independence.

Education:

·      Present: Montessori Training Program, Kent, Washington, USA – Montessori Teaching Certificate

·      2019: Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA – Master of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management

·      2014 Brussels Business Institute, Wiltz, Luxembourg – Certification of Specialization in Room Division 

·      2013 Lao American College, Vientiane, Laos – Business of Management

With over 14 years of experience in early childhood education, Ms. Tracy brings an exceptional blend of expertise, passion, and commitment to nurturing young learners. Her journey in education has spanned prestigious international institutions and leadership roles, making her a remarkable asset to our school community.

Educational Background and Professional Training:

Ms. Tracy holds a Montessori certification for ages 3-6 from the American Montessori Society and an English Education diploma. She has enriched her professional skills through advanced training programs, including:

- The EMTTA course at Etonkids International Kindergarten.

- A 3-6 Early Childhood Montessori course (American Montessori Society).

- Training and collaboration with Montessori Institute of America (MIA) trainers in Seattle.

- Certification in Positive Discipline strategies.

Extensive Teaching and Leadership Experience:

Ms. Tracy’s professional journey includes diverse roles that highlight her dedication to fostering holistic child development:

- Avocado Montessori Academy Bellevue Campus (2024-present)

- Academic Leader at Etonkids International Kindergartens (2021-2023)

- Leader Teacher and Training Assistant at Beijing Kidi Montessori Academy (2014-2019)

- Leader Teacher at Maple International Academy (2012-2014)

Ms. Tracy is dedicated to fostering a love of learning in children, helping them build independence, confidence, and curiosity. She believes in creating an enriching environment that supports children’s growth in every aspect—physical, cognitive, emotional, and socia

Hello, My name is Amily, and I am from Taiwan. I

graduated from the School of Business Administration and had the privilege of working as an administrative professional in corporate banks and foundations.. I also gained valuable experience as a guidance counselor at a educational institution. After moving to the United States, I was fortunate to join the Avocado team, where I found my true passion in early childhood education.

Early childhood education is a path filled with warmth and love, yet it also requires a deep sense of professionalism and skill. It brings me immense joy to accompany children on their developmental journey, witnessing their happiness and challenges as they explore the world around them.

This is a path rich in both love and challenges, and I am eager to continue learning and growing in this field.

Hello, my name is Hannah.

I am thrilled to join the Avocado community! For the past eight years, I have had the privilege of working with children aged 2 to 6, fostering their growth and learning during these critical early years. I am a Montessori-certified educator and am currently in my final quarter at Highline College, where I am completing a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.
In my teaching, I use a variety of tools, including music, art, and play, to create a joyful and nurturing environment where children feel confident to explore and learn. I deeply respect and value each child’s unique abilities and potential, and I find great fulfillment in witnessing their growth and success in the classroom.
With my experience and passion for early childhood education, I am excited to support your children on their journey to reaching their fullest potential. I look forward to contributing to their learning and development with care, creativity, and dedication

Hello! My name is Liwen Huang, and I’m originally from Guangzhou, Guangdong, China. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business English from Guangdong University of Finance and Economics.I joined the Avocado Montessori Academy family in July 2023 and began my journey of learning the Montessori philosophy. This year, I will serve as an intern teacher in the preschool program. My goal is to create an engaging and supportive learning environment where children can develop a love for learning. I strive to nurture their independence, happiness, honesty, and overall well-being while helping them explore and develop their unique talents.

Outside of work, I am passionate about dance and singing, and I enjoy participating in group performances on weekends.

Ms Lulu

Hello, my name is Lucy!

I was born and raised in Jiangsu China and have 12 years of working experience as a trainer. Since moving to Seattle, I have worked as a Chinese teacher at a Chinese school, teaching literacy reading, Pinyin, and first grade texts. In June 2024, I joined the AMA team, deeply attracted by the Montessori method, each child is unique, I will give children enough love enough support, respect each child's growth pace, so as to help children complete personality development and finally burst out teaching results!

Hi, I am Ms. Renee, and I am thrilled to serve as a English teacher at Avocado Montessori Academy. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education and a passion for the Montessori method, I hold a BA in Education from San Diego State University with a minor in children's theater. I have been teaching in a Montessori environment for the past six years, and I firmly believe that a prepared environment fostering curiosity and critical thinking enables every child to succeed. I look forward to supporting your children on their learning journey. Outside the classroom, I am a busy mom who spends weekends cheering on soccer and cheerleading. In my free time, I enjoy scrapbooking and being by the water. I look forward to meeting you.

Hello, my name is Anna! 

A little bit about me - I was born and raised in Washington state, I have lived in Seattle since 2017. I enjoy spending time outdoors, listening to music, traveling, spending quality time with those close to me, and I am a fur mama to four sweet pets, two dogs and two cats. 

My love for children has always been near and dear to my heart. Children’s wide eyed curiosity of the world around them has always been infectious and enlightening for me to be around. I pride myself in being an adaptable individual and with that I have worked in many different fields during my time in the workforce. I initially pursued a job as an infant teacher while studying esthetics in 2022. Though after completing my program I found myself drawn back to early childhood education due to the profound joy and fulfillment it brings. 

I have worked primarily with infants for the past three years, during this time I have felt my love for teaching grow exponentially. I am passionate about providing the support as well as the guidance infants and young children need in those early months/years of life. Being a consistent and compassionate caregiver is what I strive for on a daily basis. I aim to nurture each child’s exploration and support their developmental milestones.

I am so excited to be a part of the Avocado Montessori Academy team and I look forward to building relationships with you all. 

Hello, my name is Lisa,  I have been working with children aged 0 to 3 years for seven years, and my passion for early childhood education continues to grow every day.

I hold an Education Bachelor’s degree and a M.ed. from the University of Washington in Seattle. In 2025, I completed my American Montessori Society Training, deepening my understanding of child development and the Montessori philosophy.

I strongly believe that each child is unique and capable. My goal is to create a nurturing, respectful, and engaging learning environment where children feel safe to explore, develop independence, and build confidence. I strive to foster curiosity, self-motivation, and a love for learning through hands-on experiences and meaningful interactions.

I look forward to working with you and supporting your child’s growth and development. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns. Together, we can create a wonderful and enriching experience for your child!

Warm regards,

Lisa

尊敬的家长，您好！我是 Lisa. 我从事 0-3 岁儿童教育已有七年，在这个过程中，我对幼儿成长的热情不断加深。

我毕业于西雅图华盛顿大学，获得教育学士学位和教育硕士学位。2025 年，我完成了 American Montessori Society 的培训，使我对蒙特梭利教育理念和儿童发展有了更深入的理解。

我坚信每个孩子都是独特而有潜力的。我希望为孩子们创造一个充满关爱、尊重和探索精神的学习环境，让他们能够自由探索，发展独立性，并建立自信。我注重通过动手操作和有意义的互动，激发孩子的好奇心和自我驱动力，培养他们对学习的热爱。

我期待与您携手，共同支持孩子的成长和发展。如有任何问题或需要帮助，欢迎随时与我交流。让我们一起为孩子创造美好的成长体验！

诚挚问候，

Lisa

Hello, my name is Sami, I was born in Japan and when I was 7 I moved to Brazil. I speak Japanese, Portuguese, and English, and I'm hoping to start learning Korean/Mandarin. I was taking psychology classes when I was in Brazil before COVID (2019 -2020) happened. I had my first experience with children back then, assisting in therapy sessions for special needs kids. In 2021 I moved to US, and since then I've been working in child care and now have 6 years of child care experience. I'm super excited to start working at Avocado Academy, and I hope that my experiences can add to the rich community of this school.

Hello! I'm Ms. Jessica, a Montessori teacher in training with a background in design and visual arts. Through experience leading children's activities and youth development programs, I've developed a warm, patient approach to supporting young learners of different ages and cultural backgrounds. As a trilingual speaker in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese with a creative perspective, bringing unique approaches to creating engaging learning environments. Looking forward to applying Montessori principles to help children develop their independence and love for learning.

Thank you for your time and support!

Jessica