Let me introduce you...
This year, we’re glad to welcome back our returning faculty members and extend our gratitude to those who concluded their time with us this past school year. While farewells are never easy, we are deeply thankful for their care and dedication to our community and their meaningful impact on our students and school.
We’re thrilled to welcome several new faculty members to Oak Farm Montessori this year! Our team is growing across Early Childhood, Elementary, and Middle School, along with new leadership in Communications, and Facilities. We’re also grateful for the additional support in Culinary, Transportation, and Grounds-keeping—each new team member brings fresh energy and enthusiasm to our community, and we’re looking forward to a wonderful year ahead.
A special congratulations to Kristy Carella on the recent arrival of her beautiful baby boy! During her maternity leave, Abigail Loeffler will be stepping into her role to ensure continued support and consistency. We also extend our warmest wishes to Alex Balle, Abby Pfenning, and April Coverstone as they enjoy their maternity leave. We’re grateful to Candy Ostlund for providing coverage and support during their time away.
Please join us in welcoming Jasten Tuttle to the Oak Farm Montessori team—she will be assisting in Toddler 1 this year as Bayley Tieman has joined Primary 3 to complete her Montessori practicum.
Primary & Lower Elementary
Abbey Walkup joins us as our new Early Childhood Assistant. A former Kindercare instructor and a native of the area, Abbey brings both experience and a strong connection to the local community.
Nina Hutcherson will support Toddler 2 as an Assistant Teacher. With over a decade of homeschooling experience, Nina offers a valuable perspective on fostering independence in young children.
Celina Carter steps into the role of Lower 3 Co-Teacher, working alongside Brittany Reynolds. Celina brings six years of classroom teaching experience and a deep commitment to the Montessori philosophy.
Zoe Lien returns to Oak Farm Montessori as the Primary 2 Co-Teacher, having recently completed her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Montessori.
Rachael McGuire rejoins the team as a Spanish Teacher serving our younger students, and we are thrilled to welcome her back to the Oak Farm Montessori community.
Middle School
Erika Eicholz joins us as the new Middle School Director. With a strong background in Montessori Inte- grative Learning and curriculum development, Erika is eager to guide our adolescent program forward.
Graham Reeves serves as the Spanish Teacher while also supporting the other subject areas.
Administration & School Services
Gemssy Muñoz steps into the role of Communications Director. With a background in education, high school student engagement, and business ownership, she brings a dynamic perspective to her new position.
Jordan Fielder, an Oak Farm Montessori alum and one of the school’s first Toddler–8th grade graduates, joins us as the Assistant Director of Strategic Partnership. Jordan brings extensive experience in public relations and a deep-rooted connection to the OFMS mission.
Buddy Steinman returns to Oak Farm Montessori as Sous Chef and primary after-care support, assisting Kristine Moreland in supporting our culinary program.
Steve Juillerat joins Oak Farm Montessori as our new Safety Specialist, bringing over two decades of experience serving the community as a firefighter, first responder, and police officer. With 19 years in law enforcement, Steve offers a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to school safety
Daniel Medina will serve as a Bus Driver and assist with maintenance. He brings valuable experience from the East Noble School system and a background in team building.
Angela Riivald also joins as a Bus Driver and Grounds keeping Assistant. With experience in school set- tings and student transportation, Angela is a welcome addition to our team.
Larry Hicks is our new Facilities Director, bringing years of leadership experience from supervising Salomon Farm Park and managing properties across the U.S.
Please join me in warmly welcoming them to Oak Farm Montessori as we begin our 26th year of serv- ing families in Northeast Indiana with a world-class Montessori education, rooted in purpose, passion, and community.
Candice Holbrook Head of School
Providing a Montessori environment that inspires students to reach their potential through meaningful work.
Welcome
ABBEY WALKUP
Early Childhood Assistant
ABOUT ME
• I’ve lived in this area my whole life—I grew up in Garrett, IN, and now live in Auburn with my fiance.
• I share my home with four cats, and in my free time, I enjoy playing video games, singing, and drinking coffee.
• Positive affirmations and expressive moments are what keep me energized. A tiny, excited wave from a student reminds me that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
THE
JOURNEY AHEAD
“I hope to grow my knowledge in Montessori education and make lasting impacts on the future leaders of our world.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
I served as a Toddler Lead Teacher for The JAM Center. I also was a Lead Teacher/Pre-K Assistant for Champions at Avilla Elementary.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
I am SO excited to collaborate with my fellow educators! It takes a village to raise and support children, so I’m grateful and excited to be a small step in these children’s journey. I love learning, but also educating those who are willing to lend an ear and grow through the process with me.
HOBBIES
Welcome
ABOUT ME
NINA HUTCHERSON
Toddler 1 Assistant Teacher
• I’m from Upstate New York, and the second youngest in a homeschool family of five. A tradition we still keep today is sewing custom Christmas stockings.
• I’ve chosen to homeschool my children, and seeing their excitement as they learn has been incredibly meaningful.
• When I was 9, I lived in China and spoke quite a bit of Chinese—a unique and unforgettable experience.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“Firstly, I’m most excited about being on the same schedule with my kids. Next, I’m super excited about working with children. I hope to further my education by receiving Montessori training while I teach here at Oak Farm Montessori School.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
My experience and accomplishments are solely related to raising my own children. Nurturing their personalities and education, as well as my own personal development.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
I have always had a passion and love for childhood and for a child’s education. Montessori education is something that I believe strongly in.
HOBBIES
Welcome
Welcome CELINA CARTER
ABOUT ME
Lower 3 Elementary Co-Teacher
• I grew up in North Manchester. I am the oldest sister of two brothers and two sisters. As a family we enjoyed bike rides, camping, and movie nights.
• I am a creator at heart. I dabble in many crafts like, crochet and cross-stitch. I also enjoy ceramics, drawing, and painting.
• I read and love baking sweet treats.
• What fills my cup is thrifting, a morning coffee, and my cat, Yazzy.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“I am deeply committed to building meaningful connections with children, and meeting each student where they are. I hope to bring a calm, peaceful presence to the classroom that fosters a nurturing environment. As I begin my journey with OFMS, I am most excited to inspire creativity and a love of learning within my students.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Ball State University. I graduated Magna Cum Laude, and was on the dean’s list every Fall and Spring. I served as a Co-Teacher for Lower Elementary at the Martin Luther King Montessori School.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
I want to help OFMS fulfill its mission because I value collaboration, kindness, and creativity; which I believe are all mirrored in Oak Farm’s values and curriculum.
HOBBIES
Welcome
ABOUT ME
ZOE LIEN
Primary 2 Lead Teacher
• I love being creative whenever I can— pottery class has become my newest obsession, and I also dabble in photography.
• I’m happiest outdoors with a book or gardening/tending to my many houseplants—I have over 30 between my home and my classroom! I also love a cozy game night with friends.
• I am now co-teaching in Primary 2, alongside my husband, Noah.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“At Oak Farm Montessori, I hope to grow both personally and professionally while deepening my understanding of Montessori through collaboration. I aim to observe with curiosity, support independence and joy in the classroom, and build meaningful connections that make this work truly fulfilling.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
I am a graduate of Indiana University Indianapolis with a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Elementary Education and a minor in Fine Arts. I also graduated from Trine University with a Masters degree in Early Childhood Montessori. I hold an AMS Early Childhood Credential. And, I served as a Resource Teacher at MLK Montessori School for three years.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
I want to support Oak Farm Montessori’s mission because I believe in nurturing the whole child—academically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. The values of respect, independence, and connection to nature align with me deeply. I’m committed to creating a space where children feel seen, capable, and inspired. I look forward to contributing to a peaceful, empowered generation of lifelong learners.
HOBBIES
ERIKA EICHOLZ
Middle School Director
ABOUT ME
• I was born in Singapore to a Japanese mother and English father, and grew up in England. I have then moved to Japan, then Mexico, then USA.
• My husband and I have four children and a dog.
• What fills my cup is creating curriculum!
• I enjoy hiking in Red River Gorge, and being with family and friends.
• I enjoy biking, hiking, working out, reading.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“I hope to rediscover joy and inspiration in building meaningful curriculum and deepening my connection with the Middle School community. I’m especially excited to fully experience an authentic Erdkinder farm program—bringing the Montessori philosophy to life through hands-on, purposeful work with adolescents.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Endicott College with a Masters of Education in Montessori Integrative Learning. I was an Assistant Principal for the Geist Montessori Academy. I also served as a Middle School Lead Teacher at the Montessori School of Westfield. Since 2022, I have assisted Xavier University Montessori Lab School in Educational Leadership and Admissions.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
“The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind.” - Dr. Montessori.
This is a real possibility at Oak Farm Montessori School and very necessary in today’s uncertain climate.
HOBBIES
Welcome
GRAHAM REEVES
Spanish/English Teacher
Humanities Support
ABOUT ME
• My wife and I have three children whom we love spending time with by Lake Michigan; hiking through the dunes and exploring the forests.
• This summer, I discovered a new interest in bird watching—hearing my very first whip-poor-will!
• I’m passionate about learning, and enjoy seeing the world through different perspectives. I thrive in change and working collaboratively to solve problems.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“I want to help Oak Farm students develop their Spanish language skills and appreciation for different cultures in the Spanish-speaking world. In addition, I would love to assist students in using their Spanish to understand more and develop a toolbox of things they can do with another language. I also would like to see how the Montessori ways of learning can help these students grow into great people.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Calvin College, now Calvin University, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History with a minor in Spanish. I am also a graduate of Michigan State University with a Masters of Art in Teaching English to Spanish of Other Languages. I was an Adjunct Professor at Sogang University in South Korea for three years.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
In the past two years, I have seen how OFMS has helped my own children to thrive through interesting assignments, new habits, projects, trips, and extracurricular activities. I would like to contribute to the mission of the school to be a premier K-12 Montessori school in whatever ways I can.
HOBBIES
ABOUT ME
RACHAEL McGUIRE
Spanish Teacher
• I enjoy traveling with my husband, and spending time with my children and grandchildren.
• My husband and I are currently remodeling a home, built in 1916 to be livable and beautiful.
• I love working with inner-city kids from various ministries.
• What fills my cup is quiet time, listening to podcasts, spiritual reflection, and walking my dog.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“I love this beautiful campus and classroom spaces, and I look forward to being in many of these classrooms as I work with the younger children in Spanish. I am so thrilled to start as a temporary co-teacher with Abby R. She was my student many years ago, when I was only about six years older than my students, at Norwell High School! Working with her and the students in her classroom is going to be a blast!”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
Graduate of Ball State University with a Bachelor of Science degree
Former Oak Farm Montessori School Spanish Teacher
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
Oak Farm helps students achieve their goals, and I love to see children and young people succeed. I’m excited to reconnect with colleagues and students here!
HOBBIES
Welcome
GEMSSY MUÑOZ
Communications Director
ABOUT ME
• I am a mom to a very active toddler, we love going on long bike rides with him in the bike stroller.
• I am a mural artist for local businesses, inspired by creating large-scale pieces.
• I love to read anime and watch manga, I have tattoos of my favorite characters.
• Former 4H member, my favorite memory: chatting with WWII veterans during early morning Honor Flight events.
• I am guided by my faith, with a personal goal of becoming an iconographer.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“This school is amazing. I was introduced to this school by a current staff member and fell in love with this school, so being the person now sharing our information and school culture with the public is incredibly exciting—because OFMS truly deserves to be showcased. Especially the incredible things happening in the classrooms, outdoors, and throughout our community involvement.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
I am a graduate of Purdue University Fort Wayne with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications with a minor in Communications studies and a concentration in Media and Culture. I worked with the TRIO Program for several years, assisting first-generation, low-income high school students graduate high school and successfully enter college. In 2022, I started a food truck business with my mother called La Catrina Food Truck.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
I hadn’t heard of OFMS before joining, and now that I have, I’m truly amazed by what this school offers. It’s an exciting opportunity to help share our story—showcasing the vibrant learning taking place in the classrooms, the outdoor experiences, and the deep community involvement that defines the OFMS culture. This school genuinely deserves to be seen and celebrated.
HOBBIES
Welcome
JORDAN FIELDER
Assistant Director of Strategic Partnership
ABOUT ME
• I was one of the first students at OFMS to go all the way from the Toddler program through 8th grade, starting back in 2000. It’s incredibly special to now be part of the community in a new way as an adult.
• In my free time, I love flipping through Architectural Digest—it’s my go-to for home design inspiration.
• I married my best friend, Jared, in 2022, and we traded life in Carmel for a new chapter in Fort Wayne.
• Sharing a morning coffee with friends or catching up with my college crew, even if we’re miles apart.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“Oak Farm feels like a second home. Returning to a place that meant so much to me feels very rewarding and gives me a strong sense of purpose professionally!
I am hoping to use my skills and love for this magical place to further the mission and goals of the school.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
I graduated from the University of Alabama, Magna Cum Laude, with a degree in Public Relations. Before Oak Farm, I worked at an advertising agency in Indianapolis for 4 years and held several internships and jobs in the marketing field while studying at Alabama. Marketing/Public Relations is my bread and butter!
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
I think Oak Farm is an invaluable asset to our community and I want to see it continue to thrive! I am so excited to build relationships with the students, faculty and school community. I worked remotely for the past 2 years and I think human connection and collaboration is such a gift.
HOBBIES
Welcome BUDDY STEINMAN
ABOUT ME
Sous Chef
• I grew up in Auburn and graduated from Lakewood Park. I now live with my wife, Leigha, and our two children.
• I love cooking, building model kits, and reading/collecting comic books.
• What fills my cup is Coke Zero; Diet Coke, if they don’t have it.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“I
want to help foster a fun and safe environment within the lunch and aftercare programs. I am happy to be back and get to see familiar faces.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
16 years of kitchen experience, working in various concepts. I’ve worked in kitchens for hospitals, delis, drive-ins, and even a school.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
I love the Montessori philosophy and have seen the meaningful impact the school has had on my own family.
HOBBIES
Welcome
LARRY HICKS
Facilities Director
ABOUT ME
• My wife and I share a home in Leo with our cat, Trixie, where we enjoy growing dahlias together in our garden.
• I’m a proud parent of three adult children and a grandparent to three granddaughters and one grandson.
• Spending time outdoors is a big part of my life—I enjoy hunting, hiking, riding ATVs, and traveling.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“I hope to continue gaining experience in overseeing the facilities and grounds at OFMS. Building new relationships with staff and vendors.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
I have many years of experience and skills in the trades. I had the privilege of working two Property Management roles in two scenic areas of the United States--Northern Minnesota along Lake Superior, and at a historic lodge in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Northern California. I have also worked for the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department, specifically Salomon Farm Park.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
I hope to grow a solid maintenance team to keep OFMS in good working order for years to come.
HOBBIES
Welcome
ABOUT ME
STEVE JUILLERAT
School Safety Specialist
• I was born and raised in the town of Andrews, with my parents and half sister.
• I married my wife, Melissa, in October of 2009 and we had our daughter, Sydney, in October of 2016.
• We live on a 6-acre property outside of Kendallville with our two horses and two dogs.
• I enjoy playing Softball and being on the Golf course.
• What fills my cup is helping others through public service.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“ After being in a public service position for numerous years, I am excited to use all I have learned while working with the staff and kids at OFMS. I’m also eager to coordinate with the local police and fire departments in order to make sure everyone is familiar with our campus. I am excited to work with a team that cares about our youth and how they progress in life.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
In 1999, I became a Reserve Police Officer and also a Firefighter serving the local community. In 2018, I gave up being a reserve police officer and moved to Fort Wayne, but continued in the fire service, making it 26 years as of April. From 2019 through 2022, I was appointed to the Board of Directors for a non-profit equine therapy barn called Ride with Faith, based out of Auburn. In January of 2025, I was appointed by the fire chief to be the training officer for our fire department, and in June of 2025, I was asked to sit on the LEPC committee for Noble County.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
Our kids are the goal here, and with the OFMS mission, I want to help our kids be the best they can be. I look forward to working closely with the staff, getting to know the kids and parents, making sure the campus is an environment where everyone feels safe and secure.
HOBBIES
Welcome
ABOUT ME
DANIEL MEDINA
• My wife and I have been married for 21 years and together we have 5 children from the ages of 11 to 24.
• I enjoy camping and being outdoors.
• What fills my cup is being in a team environment.
THE JOURNEY AHEAD
“Obtain a good solid place to work for where there are opportunities to grow and help make change. I will be learning, and growing experience in a great environment.”
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
I am a graduate of Ivy Tech Community College. I was a Production Supervisor for Vans Home Center. I also served as a School Bus Driver for East Noble School Corporation, maintaining a CDL B School Bus License.
WHY JOIN THE TEAM?
Oak Farm Montessori School is a good school and program that I feel is a great opportunity for education and would enjoy being part of that growth.
HOBBIES
