Our Team
St. Vrain Community Montessori School educators are known as “Guides.” Each classroom has a combination of Lead Guides and Guides depending on the needs of the classroom.
All Guides provide a warm, nurturing, and safe environment which enhances self-direction, encourages independence, and respects individuality. Guides meet the academic, social, emotional, and physical needs of both the individual and the group in the classroom environment.
All Lead Guides either hold or are pursuing the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) or American Montessori Society (AMS) credential for the level at which they teach.
Combined, the SVCMS faculty possesses over 150 years of Montessori teaching experience.
Who do I contact about...
Dylan Lynn Lovett Barr
Jobie Stom
Jennifer Ramsey
Not sure who to contact? Email office@svcmontessori.org.
Children's House
Ages 3-6
Aspen Lead Guide
Masako Brauneis
I am the Aspen Lead Guide. I have worked in Montessori classrooms since 2013, joining SVCMS in 2021. Before I began teaching, I worked for an environmental organization where I discovered my passion for educating young children. I hold an M.A. in Education, with a Montessori focus, an M.A. in International Environmental Policy, the AMS Early Childhood Credential, and the Colorado Director Qualification. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, hiking, traveling, and playing the piano.
Maple Co-Lead Guide
Tina Wigert
I joined SVCMS in August, 2022. I have taught at the primary level for over 20 years. I love this age because the children are like little sponges absorbing everything around them. My favorite work is the golden bead work in math since it is so visual and manipulative. I have 2 grown children who fortunately live in the Denver area. I became a grandmother last March and am loving every minute of this new role in my life! You can find me hiking year round and on the ski slopes all winter!
Preschool Director
Oak Lead Guide
Heather Gonsalves
I am Director of the Children’s House and Lead Guide in the Oak classroom. I joined SVCMS in 2012 as a Guide in the Oak classroom and have had the pleasure of teaching in each Children’s House classroom over the years. I have a Master’s Degree in Social Work and I worked for years as a play therapist in New York City where I am from before becoming a teacher. I graduated from the Montessori Center of the Rockies in 2012. I enjoy being a mother, herbalism, camping, crocheting, and cooking for my family.
Aspen Guide
Steph Nicols
I joined SVCMS in 2024 as a children’s house guide. I have been working as an assistant in a Montessori preschool since I graduated from St. Lawrence University, where I earned my bachelor’s degrees in Sociology with an educational studies minor. I love Montessori because it emphasizes a holistic approach to education where children can develop not only academic skills, but essential life skills as well. I enjoy spending time outside trail running, biking, and skiing.
Maple Co-Lead Guide
Barbara Beumee
Barbara joined SVCMS in 2023. She has her AMS Early Childhood Credential and over 20 years of experience teaching Montessori at the primary level.
Oak Guide
Johanna Haraf
I joined SVCMS in 2025 as a guide in the Children’s House. My Montessori journey began as a young student at Ravenhill Academy, where I fondly remember working with the knobbed cylinders and caring for plants. After spending several years teaching at outdoor wilderness schools across the Western U.S., I earned my Montessori certification at MECR in 2013. Since then, I’ve had the joy of working in both private and public Montessori schools in Lafayette, Louisville, and Boulder—as both a lead guide and an assistant. I still love the knobbed cylinders, and my family will tell you I have far too many plants.
Lower Elementary
Ages 6-9
Blue Spruce Lead Guide
Zoë Bulick
As a Montessori child myself, I always knew I wanted to return as a teacher. This is my third year as a Lead Guide in Willow Northeast. I have an MFA in Poetry and Book Art and still enjoy writing and creating in my spare time. I also love to sew, read, and knit. My favorite Montessori materials are the cubing and squaring math materials, but our math materials in general, and working with them with children bring so much joy to my heart.
Ponderosa Lead Guide
​Lucía Llanes-Kuhlmann
I joined SVCMS in 2020 as a Lower Elementary guide. Among my favorite Montessori works are geographical maps, because kids can study about the different countries and cultures all around the world - and I love traveling! I’m originally from Mexico City where I obtained my bachelors degree in Graphic Design and also my AMI certification as a Montessori guide. I have 12+ years of experience working in Montessori’s Children’s house, here in Colorado. I love painting, music, and running.
Literacy Interventionist & Art Consultant
Heather Legendre
I joined SVCMS in 2012 as the Lead Guide in the Ponderosa classroom. Previous to that, I was a Lower Elementary Guide at Jarrow Montessori school in Boulder. I am currently the Lower Elementary Reading Interventionist, as well as SVCMS’ Reading Support Coordinator. My training includes a Lower Elementary Montessori Credential from MECR, as well certificates in both the Basic and Advanced Orton Gillingham approach to reading instruction. My family is fully steeped in Montessori, as my wife is also a Montessori elementary teacher, and both of my sons, who currently attend SVCMS, have been in Montessori since they were 18 months old. I love to paint, hike, camp, play board games, travel to the ocean, as well as to my home state of Vermont.
Blue Spruce Guide
Ameerah Elsayed
I moved to Colorado from my hometown of Phoenix, Arizona in May 2023, and joined SVCMS in 2025 as a guide. With ten years of experience in early childhood education, I’m passionate about supporting children’s growth and sense of wonder. I hold a Montessori certification in Children’s House and am currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education. As a former Montessori student myself, I deeply value the approach and especially appreciate the peacefulness that is woven into the learning community. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy gardening, reading, cooking, and spending time with my pets.
Ponderosa Guide
Ryan Brink
I joined SVCMS in 2021 as a Guide in Blue Spruce. My favorite Montessori work is grammar symbols because using color and shapes to categorize words makes so much sense for long term retention. I am new to Montessori instruction but so looking forward to learning everything I can. I love to read and knit in my free time.
Upper Elementary
Ages 9-12
Juniper Lead Guide
Eve Shelden
I joined SVCMS in 2016 as a parent. Since then, I've worked as a substitute teacher across all levels as well as a Guide in Willow South. I just finished my Lower Elementary I training in the summer of 2024! I love Montessori because it is a large part of what has shaped my children into the self-actualized people they are today. I enjoy cooking, rewatching Ted Lasso, and gardening.
Willow North Lead Guide
Paula Harshbarger
I joined the SVCMS community in 2014 as a UE Guide. I have been a guide in both the Willow classrooms and currently hold the position of level coordinator. With a knack for organizing, I enjoy supporting the UE team by meeting the needs outside of the classroom so that our guides can focus their attention within the classroom. I hold a degree in Anthropology from Montana State University. When I am not with the lovely humans of the UE I spend my time with my family and 4-leggeds.
Upper Elementary Level Lead
Willow South Lead Guide
Laura Marble
I joined SVCMS in 2021 as lead guide in Willow South. Before that, I lived in Tucson, where I taught at Khalsa Montessori School for 12 years. My master's degree and work background are in magazine-style writing and photojournalism, and my upper-elementary training came from MECR in Boulder. My favorite Montessori materials are the math ones, because I love the way they hold answers to the question "Why?" When I'm not at school, I enjoy hiking, reading, ruminating, and drinking tea.
Willow North Guide
Ainsley Woodfin
I joined SVCMS in 2024 as a guide in Willow North. My previous educational experience was as an instructor at Mathnasium. Additionally, my training includes a Bachelor's of Psychology from CU. I love Montessori because it fosters creativity and independence in both children and adults! I enjoy crochet, reading, and hiking.
Middle School
Ages 12-14
Evergreen Level Lead
Christine Rivas Arriaga
I joined SVCMS in 2021 as a Lead Guide in Evergreen and became Level Lead in 2024. I graduated from CU Boulder with a degree in English Literature with an emphasis in Shakespeare and a degree in Music Education with an emphasis in Vocal Performance. In 2015 I began teaching as a middle school Theater and Choir director before transitioning to SVCMS and earning my Secondary Montessori Educator Training in 2023 through CMStep. Other certifications I’ve earned are a Wilderness First Responder certification through NOLS and my Level 2 CrossFit Trainer certification. I love Montessori because of the reverence her philosophy shows young people in the stages of adolescence. I enjoy fitness and physiology, fiber arts, and spending time with my husband and 3 children.
Evergreen Lead Guide
Amy Clarke Moore
I joined SVCMS as the Art Guide in 2016. In 2014, I left a career in publishing as the Editor of Spin-Off Magazine at Interweave Press to pursue a growing interest in Montessori education. I studied adolescent Montessori pedagogy for two years in the Great Work Apprenticeship program at Compass Montessori in Golden, Colorado. I earned an MFA (Fiber Arts) at Colorado State University in 1997. I am a writer, gardener, and fiber artist as well as a mom of two adolescent daughters. I fell in love with Montessori as a preschooler where I learned how empowering it was to do things myself.
Evergreen Lead Guide
Brooke Bowen
I joined SVCMS in 2024 as an Evergreen Guide. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Media Arts & Design with a minor in English from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. I am originally from Northern Virginia and have several years of experience working with children in a Nanny and Homeschooling setting. I love Montessori because it allows students to be independent and curious in their learning. In my spare time I enjoy photographing major milestones in other people’s lives, doing yoga, riding and working with horses, trying out and experimenting with new recipes, and reading sappy romance novels.
Evergreen Lead Guide
Kyle O'Brien
I joined SVCMS in 2023 as the Middle School Science and Agriculture Lead Guide. My background includes education, regenerative agriculture, and mindfulness, with a B.A. in Wholeness-based Education from the California Institute of Integral Studies and certifications in permaculture and holistic orchard management. Previously, I was an environmental science and school garden educator for Pajaro Valley School District, managing school gardens. Passionate about Montessori education and the Erdkinder philosophy, I emphasize experiential learning and mindfulness. Living in Longmont and originally from Pacific Grove, I enjoy family time, developing a micro homestead, and training for trail ultramarathons.
Integral Staff
Special Education & Multi-department Staff
Children's House & Lower Elementary Program Coordinator
Conifer Lead Guide Substitute
Jessica Chervenak
I am the Program Coordinator for Children's House and Lower Elementary. I joined SVCMS in 2011. This will be my 24th year as a Montessori Educator. I enjoy hiking, visiting National Parks, knitting, and reading.
Movement Lead Guide
Amy Miller
I have been involved with SVCMS since 2009, starting as an involved parent, and becoming the Movement Lead Guide in 2010. I delight in combining Montessori philosophy with my love of physical activity and joy in working with children. With Montessori Physical Education training from MECR, the Denver Institute of Physical Education & Dance, and SHAPE America, I am also a licensed soccer coach with over ten years of experience in youth soccer. My journey into Montessori began as a child at the Austin Montessori School, and I sought Montessori education for my two children - first at Gateway Montessori, then at SVCMS. In my free time, I am almost always moving! I enjoy time with my family and friends, hiking, yoga, and various sports, along with reading, baking, crochet, and puttering in my garden as creative outlets. I strive to inspire students to embrace a lifelong love of movement, develop independence, and be ready to explore the world with confidence and curiosity.
Director of Student Services
Jenny Grassley
I joined SVCMS as a co-lead guide in special education in 2022. After four years of teaching in Seattle and abroad, I earned a Master in Teaching in elementary education and taught for six years as a Children’s House teacher and interventionist. I love Montessori’s emphasis on honoring and supporting each child as a unique person. Since joining SVCMS, I completed my special education endorsement, and I am currently the special education lead guide. I love a cup of coffee and exploring the mountains with family and friends.
Behavior Support Specialist
Hannah Grandstaff
I am so excited to be joining St. Vrain Community Montessori School! I recently moved to Colorado from Iowa, where I was born and raised. I went to the University of Iowa where I got my bachelor’s degree in music therapy. I am currently a board-certified music therapist as well as a registered behavioral technician. In my free time, I enjoy painting, playing my guitar, singing, reading, and gardening. I work with children of all ages every day as a music therapist, and I am so excited to put my skills to use as a Nautilus Behavior Support Guide in an environment that fosters education from a holistic and authentic perspective.
Floating Guide
Olivia Muñiz
This is my first and exciting year at SVCMS as an AM Float. I have earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from New Mexico Highlands University, and during my college years I spent a lot of my time as a dedicated college-athlete playing softball. I began my journey in education in 2022 as a Math Tutor/Teacher's Assistant at Westminster High School, where I am also an alumni. I found a love for mentoring students and serving as their trusted "partner in crime" for lawful, neutral, or chaotic good. I am from Colorado and have family roots in the history of the state as well as the pre-colonial Southwest. In my free time I enjoy beading jewelry, connecting with mother nature, and cooking for the soul. I love chatting about heritage, culture, art, pets, and of course...trees.
UE Program Coordinator & Writing Consultant
MS ELA Guide
Jamie Hamilton-Jurkovich
I've been with SVCMS since 2018. For five years, I served as the Communications Manager, and currently I'm the Writing Guide for 4th - 8th grade. Additionally, I serve as the staff secretary to the SVCMS Board of Directors. I’m thrilled to be a part of Montessori education for so many reasons, but mainly because of the way that children are respected as unique individuals and learners. I have an MA in English Education from CU and a Montessori Writing Certificate from AMS. In addition to teaching at the high school level, I have worked in publishing and content development for large tech companies. I'm an avid reader and enjoy all that Colorado has to offer with the beautiful outdoors.
Art & Special Projects Guide
Literacy Interventionist
Charlie Hickman
I was raised in Boulder and adore art, science and nature. After teaching art for 4 years on the western slope I found my way to SVCMS in 2010. Currently, I live in Longmont with my lovely wife and son, several obnoxious chickens, and a tortoise. My favorite Montessori works are the Great Lessons and their extensions, these serve to root our work in wonder and a state of unknowing. This, to me, is the root of all education, and I hope to cultivate the spirit of wonder in my daily practice.
Special Education Paraeducator
MTSS Coordinator
Yvonne Telep
I joined SVCMS in February of 2021 as a SPED Para. Previously I have taught English, ESL, and various other topics with both secondary and college students. This is my first time teaching younger children and I really enjoy it! I have a Masters of Arts in Teaching English, as well as training and endorsements in the teaching of English to speakers of other languages. Both my children attended Montessori school and I love that Montessori follows the child and lets them pursue their own interests in their own way. I also enjoy music, training my dog, reading, and hiking.
Special Education Paraeducator
Casie Hanson
I am a Floater Guide and Special Education Paraeducator, though when I joined SVCMS in 2023, I was a Guide. My previous educational/professional experience is as a Para at various other schools. My training includes a BA in Dietetics and raising my own beautiful children. I love Montessori because it is a privilege to work with such amazing people and be a part of so many children thriving in this school. I enjoy spending time doing literally anything with my family and friends. I like gardening, especially during good years. For special occasions, we like to go to dinner and a movie.
Student Support Specialist
Marc Genty
I serve as the Student Support Specialist for the school providing individual support and resources for students, families, and staff. I joined SVCMS in 2019. My previous roles included serving as the Community Support Specialist for the school and as the Middle School Math and Critical Thinking Guide. I hold a B.S. in Manufacturing Engineering from CSU and worked professionally as a Systems Engineer for many years prior to joining SVCMS. I am also a Volunteer Crisis Counselor for the Crisis Text Line and have extensive experience as a volunteer in a variety of care settings providing compassionate support for others.
Office & Administration
Head of School
Jessica Rawlings
I joined SVCMS in 2024 in the Head of School role, having previously served as Head of School for five years at a Montessori school in Utah. I attended Southern Utah University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Theater/Dance with a minor in English. In 2000, I earned a MACTE accredited Montessori certificate (ages 3-6) and spent more than ten years as a guide in Montessori Primary classrooms, including serving as a curriculum coordinator and working with American Montessori Society and International Guided Studies teacher training programs. While earning my MEd at Westminster University, I completed Montessori elementary coursework for credit. My favorite element of Montessori philosophy is hope for the future of humanity, found in the seed of greatness within each child.
Director of Business Services & HR
Title IX Coordinator
Jennifer Ramsey
I joined SVCMS in 2009 as a Guide in Children's House in the Oak room. Over the past 15 years, I have had the privilege of experiencing a variety of roles at SVCMS, including Middle School and Upper Elementary Art Guide and my current role of Director of Business Services and Human Resources, ELL Guide, and Title IX Coordinator. I received my MFA in Printmedia from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago as well as my Early Childhood Montessori credential from Montessori Education Center of the Rockies and, most recently, my Montessori Leadership credential from The Center for Guided Montessori Studies. One of the things I love most about Montessori is its emphasis on cosmic education and the interconnectedness of all beings. I enjoy creating embroidery and other art, gardening (particularly weeding!), and spending time with family and friends.
Reception
Pearl Spinharney
I am the receptionist at SVCMS on Fridays. My children first began attending SVCMS in 2013 and I have been working at the school since 2021 where I started as a substitute in the classrooms. I have 3 children currently at the school as well as 2 alumni students. I enjoy spending time with my family, our animals and reading whenever possible.
Health & Safety Clerk
Administrative Assistant
Jobie Stom
I joined SVCMS in 2018 as office staff and have been the Health and Safety clerk since spring 2019. I have enjoyed getting to know the students and experiencing the Montessori environment. I spend most of my free time with my family and our dog.
Content Specialist
Shara Davis
I joined SVCMS in 2021 as Anti-Bias Anti-Racism (ABAR) Coordinator. I hold BA and MA degrees in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and completed additional training in Clinical and Community Psychology at the University of Illinois. My personal and professional work has focused on community mental health, trauma-informed care in juvenile settings, and advocacy for survivors of domestic violence. I enjoy traveling the world, as well as everyday adventures with my family
Director of Enrollment & Assessment
Cindy Moran
I've worked at SVCMS since 2009. I earned a BA in Psychology and English from the University of Massachusetts, an MA in English Literature from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and a Masters in Library Science from San Jose State University. Prior to joining SVCMS, I was an Instructor of Writing and Rhetoric at the University of Colorado . I am the parent of one current SVCMS student and one SVCMS alumnus.
Reception
Tiffany Min
I'm the Monday through Thursday receptionist here at SVCMS and have worked at our lovely school since 2022 (first as a substitute teacher). I hold a master's degree in international education and previously worked as a school administrator for many years at a middle school. I aspire to visit all the national parks, pet as many animals as possible, and eat ice cream with every meal.
Event & Volunteer Coordinator
Library
Jessa Fink
I became a SVCMS Parent in 2014. Through involvement with the PVO I came to adore our community of educators and families. When a part time receptionist opportunity arose I was all in! Currently I support the school as the Event and Library Coordinator. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theater from San Francisco State University and I worked in costumes and wardrobe for theater, film and television until we relocated our family to Colorado in 2013. I’ve discovered there are a lot of parallels in Montessori education and the creative arts: collaboration, the ability to grow and explore within defined boundaries, and the celebration of individuality. I’m excited to grow with SVCMS!
Communications Manager
Dylan Lynn Lovett Barr
I wore a few hats when I joined SVCMS in 2016 and spent several years full-time in the Middle School. After completing an MA in Communication & Applied Psychology at Regis University, I transitioned to Communications. I also hold a Secondary Montessori certificate specializing in ages 12-15. I enjoy pastel painting, cross-stitch, TTRPGs, and spending time with my loved ones.
