Let me introduce you...
This year, we welcome 63 returning staff to Oak Farm Montessori, with nine staff concluding their tenure this past spring. We say goodbye to Heather Lemmon and Rachael McGuire from Secondary, Meghan Dohring and Michal Miller from Lower Elementary, Stacia Diggins, Audrey Horstman, Natahsa Beverforden and Dani Norris from the Vic House, and Ryan Guiff from our hard working Maintenance Team. They have each invested in the students and made valuable contributions to our school; we thank them for their years of supporting the OFMS mission.
This year, we welcome several new faculty to our community including: two new Middle School teachers, two Maintenance employees, two Lower Elementary teachers, a Primary Teacher, Upper Elementary Teacher, two Spanish Teachers, Vic House Support, and a Toddler Assistant. We also see two faculty moving into new roles within the school; Flor Ortega has moved from Spanish Teacher to Dual Language Upper Elementary 4 Teacher, and Oakleigh Butler moves from the Middle School to teach Math at the High School. Our new faculty includes:
Middle/High School
Laura Gould has been teaching science for twelve years and brings a diverse, practical, and logical curiosity to her love of science and math.
Shelby Frazier has worked in various roles to design and facilitate engaging math lessons for middle school students.
Nayda Carmona joins us as our Secondary Spanish Teacher, but she is also fluent in English and French. She holds two Masters and is working on a third!
Elementary
Michelle Morris comes to us with seven years experience in elementary education and will join Sandra Deacon in the UE1 classroom.
Kelly Williamson is a familiar face around campus as a guest teacher, but now joins our team as the Lower Elementary 1 Teacher with Patsy Cadalzo.
Brittany Reynolds just graduated from Trine University with a Masters of Education in Montessori Elementary. She will join Tiffany Fennig in LE3.
Eliana Delgado hails from Peru! Her native language of Spanish will provide students with authenticity in their lessons. She will take over Flor’s classes this year.
Victorian House
Stacy Hambrook returns to OFMS as our Primary 2 Teacher. Formerly, Stacy worked as our Music Teacher and even on our Maintenance Team!
Autumn Whitaker most recently worked at Lighthouse Montessori in Ashley and is excited to join our team. She will serve as Vic House Support.
Lili Argueta joins the Toddler team as an Assistant and knows that being bilingual as well as a certified Recreational Therapist will benefit the students she serves.
Maintenance
Tyler Gill has a background in Music Engineering and electronics that will serve him well in his new position with our Maintenance crew!
Bill Krock brings a wealth of experience, training, and interests, including being a city councilman in Avilla for 20 years!
So, flip the pages to learn more about our new staff and join me in welcoming them to Oak Farm Montessori as we begin our 23rd year of providing a worldclass Montessori education for families in Northeast Indiana.
Candice
Welcome
Lili
Argueta
Toddler 2 Teacher
ABOUT ME
• I am a mother to my son, Dallas, who is 16 months old and will start in Toddlers this year.
• I grew up in Kendallville where I attended East Noble and played soccer for 4 years.
• I’m Guatemalan/Mexican which made Spanish my first language and it’s what I speak at home with my family.
• I like taking initiative to help others complete something I know they would appreciate. It makes me happy seeing that I made a difference whether big or small.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“ I am most excited on embarking on this journey with my son and to be able to witness it through his eyes while also being able to take the next step in my personal journey with Oak Farm. I am also introducing the Spanish language to the children’s environment, and I am eager to see how it aids in their development. ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy.
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)
Bilingual in Spanish and English
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“ There is something beautiful about providing a child with the necessary tools and a fostering environment that supports a child’s natural desire for learning and independence.Personally, I love observing the child during their self teaching moments and not interfering with the process. By being a part of this community, I will have the pleasure in being able to serve this mission. ”
HOBBIES
Healthy Living Baking Podcasts
Reading
New Role g
Oakleigh
High School Math & Business Teacher
ABOUT ME
• My husband, Kyle, and I have been married for almost three years. We have a toddler son, Callahan, and are expecting our daughter, Channing, in September!
• I come from a large family of 8 siblings and I love spending time with my family. I especially love fall and football season!
• Growing up, I did competitive gymnastics and then switched to cheerleading in middle school, high school, and college.
• If I couldn’t be a teacher, I would love to own a gymnastics facility and be a full-time gymnastics coach.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“ As much as I loved working at the Middle School, I am looking forward to spending 4 years with students and getting to know them throughout their time at OFMHS. ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Franklin College with a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Mathematics Education and Pure Mathematics.
Graduate of Cincinnati Montessori Secondary Teacher Education Program with an AMS Secondary I-II Montessori Credential.
Math Teacher at Oak Farm Montessori Middle School since 2020.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“
Since I started at Oak Farm, I have been in awe at all the ways we meet the needs of our students. We push students to meet their potential, while also following each student to find work that is meaningful and unique to their needs. ”
HOBBIES
Math Cheerleading Family
Butler
Gymnastics
y Nayda
Carmona
6th - 12th Spanish Teacher
ABOUT ME
• Hola! I was born in Mayagüez Puerto Rico. I grew up in Connecticut, Puerto Rico, and Massachusetts.
• I like to sing in choirs and small groups. I also love interpreting and translating; I am fluent in three languages!
• I like to go to concerts that have peaceful, fun music. I’m also beginning to do Yoga, on videos.
• I especially love to travel, and to cook healthy international foods.
• If I couldn’t be a teacher, I would be a poet or writer.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Middlebury College with a Master of Arts in Spanish Literature.
Graduate of Cambridge College with a Master of Education in Models and Systems of Bilingual Education.
Graduate of Atlantic Union College with a Diploma in Alliance Français.
Graduate of Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Latin American and Caribbean Studies.
Indiana Teacher Certification: Professional Teacher for World Languages: Spanish Teacher grades kindergarten to grade 12.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
HOBBIES
Cooking Travel Painting
Family
Welcome
“ I believe in helping to prepare students to be global citizens who will positively affect their future world. ”
“ I’d love to share the Spanish language with students in a fun way. I’d like to explore the nearby trails by hiking. ”
Welcome
Eliana
Delgado
Elementary Spanish Teacher
ABOUT ME
• I am from Lima, Peru, and moved to Fort Wayne in 2020, to be with my now husband and soul mate, Brent. We’ve been married over two years and have two amazing fur babies, Sasha and Chase.
• I helped rescue hundreds of dogs in Lima, Peru and support those efforts today.
• I also have my own custom embroidery business, using authentic Alpaca fibers from Peru.
• I began my OFMS career by hosting a Latin cooking class!
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“ I am excited to be part of the OFMS family and start this new adventure. I never thought I would love this new and unique role for myself as much as I have. The students interest and enthusiasm for learning Spanish makes me proud and happy to share my native language. Listening to an infant say, “Hola” for the very first time warms my heart and brings me joy! ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Univerity of Applied Sciences with a focus in Administration. Graduate of ELA Higher Institute with a focus in Bilingual Executive Secretariat. Bilingual in Spanish and English.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“
Being part of the beautiful OFMS community makes me extremely happy in many ways; including being among the very kind, caring humans that collaborate in the unique environment to educate our incredible students. I have completely fallen in love with the Montessori philosophy, and I will give my best in my role as a Spanish Teacher; helping students to develop their skills in this beautiful language, cultivating the shape of their hearts and minds and always respecting their independent thoughts. ”
HOBBIES
Embroidery Cooking Gardening
Family
Shelby y
Middle School Teacher
ABOUT ME
• My husband Isaac and I have been married for 6 years and have a spunky little boy together, named Luca. We also have an energetic fur-child, a Toy YorkeePoo named Bingo.
• Outside of education and family, my passion is in music. I have worked part-time in the country music industry as a singersongwriter for a number of years, and still enjoy traveling down to Nashville to work on projects.
• If I couldn’t be a teacher, I would be a full-time singer-songwriter.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“ I am most excited to meet everyone and build new relationships with students, staff, and the adorable animals on campus. I look forward to being an active member of this community. ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of American College of Education with a Master of Arts, Secondary Education (grades 5-12)
Graduate of Western Governor’s University with a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing Management. MS Honors Mathemematic Teacher at PennHarris-Madison School Corporation.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM? HOBBIES
“ The world can be a crazy place. As students navigate adolescence in these unprecedented times of rapid acceleration and change, it is more important than ever for them to be grounded in the foundation of genuine and meaningful life principles. The Montessori education offered at OFMS is the most efficient and meaningful way for students to develop their talents, skills, and passions, while also becoming empathetic and compassionate neighbors. I am honored and excited to be a part of such a special and important endeavor. ”
Songwriting Laughter Music
Frazier
Welcome Family
Welcome
y Tyler
Gill
Maintenance Team
ABOUT ME
• My wife and I live in Avilla with our two sons. We enjoy Legos, modifying/painting Nerf blasters, and RC cars.
• I started playing cello when I was in 4th grade and never stopped. I also play electric and upright bass, guitar, air drums, and I love to sing.
• I’m an avid reader. I like figuring out how things work and learning new things in general.
• Helping people and making them laugh fills my cup!
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Ball State University with a bachelor’s degree in Music Engineering Technology and a Minor in Applied Physics/ Electronics.
Employee at Flint & Walling
Music Teacher, Technology Coordinator at St. John Lutheran School
AMX Control Systems Certified Installer.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“
I’ve had some amazing teachers and experiences in my own education that were perfect reflections of Oak Farm’s mission. These were some of the most important and meaningful parts of my education, and I want to support Oak Farm’s mission because I see our students being given the same kinds of opportunities every day. I believe students should be empowered and given the freedom to explore their creativity, to think critically as they learn how to navigate the world, and to develop real-world skills and experiences.
HOBBIES
the bus! ”
Reading Legos Music
Family
”
“ I’m excited to be in a place where I can use all of my skills and experience to make a positive difference and contribution. I’m excited to continue getting to know the Oak Farm family and community. I’m also excited to drive
Middle School Teacher
ABOUT ME
• I am the mom to four wonderful and joyful kids, and wife of the best man on the planet.
• We lived in California our whole lives until we decided to be pioneers and move cross country to Indiana. It was the best decision we ever made.
• We are a completely nerdy family and love things like Harry Potter (go team Ravenclaw!), Monster Jam, and gaming - both tabletop and video.
• Our favorite thing is just hanging out at home and playing outside. We also have two giant mastiffs who fill our house with love and slobber.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“
I’m genuinely excited to work with our amazing team and get to know all our OFMMS students and families. Science and math are fun!! It’s going to be a great year! ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Stanford University with a Master of Arts in Education, emphasis in teaching of Chemistry.
Graduate of University of California, Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry
Adjunct Chemistry Professor at Sierra College, Rocklin, CA
Science Teacher at Jesuit High School, Carmichael, CA
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“ One of the best things about math and science is that they teach us to assess and think logically. Will you be realistically using the Pythagorean theorem in your daily life as an adult? Probably not. But will you be critically thinking about things, problem solving, and making logical decisions?
Absolutely. That’s a truly meaningful work to help our students learn how to analyze information, ask questions, investigate, make rational decisions, and always have that spark of curiosity. ”
HOBBIES
Gould Crafting
Monster Jam Gaming
Welcome Family
Laura
Primay 2 Teacher
ABOUT ME
• I grew up in Indiana, but I’ve lived all over the country; from northern and southern California to Florida, Colorado, and Ohio.
• I love to road trip and travel, especially when my daughter, Gretta, is my copilot!
• Kindness, gratitude, and living in the moment fill my cup. Adventure fills my soul.
• If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be working in a national park or forest, or documenting my travel experiences.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“ I am truly thrilled to be returning to Oak Farm as a Primary Teacher. The campus is an incredible place to cultivate learning, and I look forward to exploring the wonderful indoor and outdoor spaces with my students. ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Trine University with a Montessori Education Early Childhood Credential
Graduate of Ohio University with a Bacheor of Science in Visual Communications
Graduate of Anderson University with Orff Schulwerk Certifications, Levels 1 & 2
10+years working with the U.S. Forest Service, Los Padres N.F. Monterey Ranger District
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“
Helping a child to discover, learn, and grow is such a joyful experience; but, it’s also one of the most important jobs in the world. It is a blessing to be part of a community that cares so deeply for the whole child. ”
HOBBIES
Travel Art & Music Water Sports
Hambrook
Outdoors
Welcome
Stacy
Welcome
Bill
Maintenance
ABOUT ME
• I have been married to my wife, Lisa, for 30 years this October. We have 4 children and 6 grandchildren.
• I was raised in Avilla and continue to live here now. In fact, I have been a councilman in Avilla for over 20 years.
• I am an IHSAA certified basketball referee and IHSAA certified track and cross country starter. I have also been a track/cross country coach in East Noble school district for 24 years!
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“ Since I am working maintenance, my goal is to make sure the school and grounds are kept in excellent condition so teachers can teach, and students can learn without interruptions. ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Student at IPFW with a focus in Leadership and Supervision.
Corporate Safety Manager for Dow Corning
Site Safety for Custom Lights.
Site Manager for Dexter Axle.
Certified OSHA training, IDEM training, and Electrical Lockout certification
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“
In my short time being at Oak Farm, it is amazing to see the way that classes are taught, the freedom that students have to move around the rooms, and to help each other when needed. The freedom during outside time also allows students to move freely. ”
HOBBIES
Coaching Golf Bicycling
Krock Family
Morris
Upper 1 Teacher
ABOUT ME
• I am a mother to two beautiful little souls, Rose and Charlie, and a wife to my best friend, Adam.
• I grew up on a horse farm in NW Indiana and developed a true passion for the outdoors because of it.
• I ran the Chicago Marathon in 2016. My thighs held a grudge for several days, but eventually forgave me. One day, I hope to do it again!
• If I had to choose a different career, and assuming finances wouldn’t be an issue, I would be a full-time farmer.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“ As I begin this journey, I am most excited to learn more about the philosophy itself. Having worked in environments where the child was not put first, everything about Montessori is inspiring and motivating. The philosophy has evoked a profound appreciation and respect for children in me. I can’t wait to learn more! ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Indiana Purdue Fort Wayne with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.
Elementary Teacher in both public and private schools for seven years before becoming a stay at home mother.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“ I want to help OFMS fulfill its mission because of the impact it will have on children and their communities. Meaningful work has depth, captivates interest, fuels intrinsic motivation, and ultimately imprints upon the heart. In the end, Oak Farm’s children, turned adults, will assist in creating a stronger, healthier, more vibrant community because of their Montessori upbringing. A noble mission indeed! ”
HOBBIES
Gardening Music Crocheting
Reading
Welcome
Michelle
New Role Flor
Upper Elementary 4 Teacher
ABOUT ME
• I have been married for 34 wonderful years to my husband, Max. We have three young adult children, one daughter and twin boys. We also have two granddaughters.
• I have been teaching Spanish at Oak Farm since 2009. I have worked with Middle school, Elementary, Primary, Toddlers and Infant students.
• I can’t imagine myself in a different job. But, once I am retired, I would like to paint landscapes, and be a hospitalera helping people walking “El Camino” in Spain.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
I am very excited to start a different role this school year at UE4. For the first time I will give myself full-time to a group of students who are eager to learn more of my mother tongue. ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Hershey Montessori with an American Montessori Internationale (AMI) Elementary (6-12) credential.
Graduate of Normal del Estado de Chihuahua Prof Luis Urías Belderráin with a Bachelor’s degree Elementary Education. Graduate of Escuela Normal Superior Prof. José E. Medrano with a Bachelor’s degree as a Preschool and Spanish Teacher.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“ During my time at Oak Farm I have had the opportunity to teach and work closely with many different ages, enriching my ability to prepare a myriad of different lessons; according to every level. The potential that comes with working directly, and exclusively, in a single classroom with one group of students is not only a welcomed change of pace, but a new venture I am excited to delve into. This is a space where I am certain I will excel. ”
HOBBIES
Travel Hiking Hand Crafts
Ortega
Family
“
y Brittany
Reynolds
Lower Elementary 3 Teacher
ABOUT ME
• I have been married for almost 14 years to my husband, Bill. We have 2 sons, Liam and Ewan, who both attend OFMS.
• We are a swim family! My sons compete on a year-round team and a summer league team, and my husband is a coach for both teams. We often travel for weekend meets.
• Family time fills my cup. We set aside time at night to snuggle, laugh, and reconnect before going to bed. We may watch a silly baking show, play a card game, or tell new “Dad jokes” we have heard.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“ I am inspired by the conflict resolution skills I have observed at OFMS. Through mentorship, students become effective and independent peacemakers. I look forward to fostering a sense of community, collaboration, and mutual respect with the LE3 children. ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Trine University with a Master of Education in Montessori Elementary I Education and a Montessori Elementary I Credential.
Graduate of the University of Saint Francis with a Master of Science in Psychology.
Graduate of Manchester University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.
Guest Teacher and Intern Teacher at Oak Farm Montessori School for two years.
University Lecturer of social science courses for thirteen years.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“ Children have a natural desire to learn and will discover their potential through their first-hand experiences. I am eager to facilitate exploration and discovery and support the children as they care for themselves, others, and their environment. ”
HOBBIES
Drawing Swimming Tennis
Welcome Family
Whitaker
Vic House Support
ABOUT ME
• I am currently a college student pursing my degree in Psychology with a focus in Child Development!
• My boyfriend and I just recently moved to Avilla with our six adorable cats.
• Creating connections and fulfilling my sense of purpose certainly fills my cup the most! However, being in nature or around animals is also very important.
• If I couldn’t be a teacher in any capacity, I would love to work with animals!
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“ I am most excited to create connections with everyone around me! I can’t wait to speak with, and learn from, my coworkers; and, I certainly can’t wait to learn about each child and their own unique capabilities and interests so that I can help them flourish! ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Student at Southern New Hampshire University with a major in Psychology and focus in Child Development.
Assistant at Lighthouse Montessori Education Center.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“ Children are our future! Providing children the opportunity for growth, learning, and confidence in their own capabilities helps not only them and the world, but also helps me fulfill my sense of purpose! ”
HOBBIES
Animals Gardening Painting
Welcome Crocheting
Autumn
y Kelly
Williamson
Elementray 1 Teacher
ABOUT ME
• I met my husband, Andrew, in middle school and we have been married for 13 years!
• Our family has been at OFMS for four years. I have been a guest teacher all around campus and our three children are 6, 7 and 10.
• When I’m not on campus, I enjoy working outdoors at home where I garden, hunt, and hobby farm. We love to spend summers boating and fishing on Lake Erie where our families are from.
• If I wasn’t a teacher, I would be a National Geographic photographer, exploring places and cultures all over the world!
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“
I’m so eager to study Montessori education this summer and join Patsy in the Lower Elementary 1 Spanish Immersion classroom! ”
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of University of Toldeo with a Bachelor of Education degree with a focus on Science and Social Studies.
Student at Trine University persuing my Montessori Certificate.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“ The entire environment that Oak Farm provides is so inspirational! From the classroom materials to the guiding principles, this campus is a true testimony to what a community should be. To be included in the honor of guiding children toward discovering their endless capabilities through that meaningful work is something I’m so excited to be a part of! ”
HOBBIES
Hunting & Fishing Garden Outdoors
Welcome Family
