Our Team
St. Vrain Community Montessori School educators are known as “Guides.” Each classroom has a combination of Lead Guides and Assistant Guides.
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 a Montessori credential from a MACTE-accredited organization for the level at which they teach.
Who do I contact about...
Dylan Lovett Barr
Adena Stedman
Jennifer Ramsey
Not sure who to contact? Email office@svcmontessori.org.
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
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.
Health & Safety Clerk
Preschool Licensing Director
Adena Stedman
Biography to come
Director of Enrollment & School Systems
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.
Director of Curriculum & Instruction
Jessica Chervenak
I serve as the Director of Curriculum & Instruction at SVCMS, where I guide the school's academic vision and support teachers across all levels of the Montessori continuum. I bring 25 years of experience as a Montessori educator, having worked directly in the classroom at the Children's House, Lower Elementary, and Upper Elementary levels — a breadth of experience that gives me a deep understanding of how children grow and develop across the full arc of the Montessori curriculum. I have two adult children who were once Montessori students themselves, which gives me a personal appreciation for the lasting impact of this education. Outside of school, I enjoy hiking, visiting National Parks, knitting, and reading.
Office Manager & Administrative Coordinator
Jobie Stom
I joined SVCMS in the fall of 2018 as the receptionist. From spring 2019 to spring 2026, I served as the Health and Safety Clerk, and in the summer of 2026, I stepped into the role of Office Manager and Administrative Coordinator. Over the years, I have enjoyed getting to know the students and being part of the Montessori environment. I spend most of my free time with my family and our dog.
Communications Manager
Dylan 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, hiking, yoga, and dance.
Children's House
Ages 3-6
Aspen Lead Guide; CH Level Lead
Masako Brauneis
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 am also a Colorado-licensed teacher with an Early Childhood Education endorsement. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, hiking, traveling, and playing the piano.
Cedar 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.
Hawthorn Lead 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.
Maple 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!
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.
Cedar Guide
Jesse Huang
I joined SVCMS in 2026 as a guide in the Children's House. I have been working in Montessori education since 2005, primarily as a lead guide at the early childhood and infant/ toddler level but also as a director, consultant, and early childhood coach. I hold a Masters in early childhood services from ASU, a bachelors in studio and performing arts from Beloit college, and Early Childhood and Infant/Toddler Montessori teaching credentials from MECR and NAMC. I am also a certified yoga teacher. I love Montessori because it prioritizes children's natural curiosity. Outside of work I enjoy contemplative and expressive arts, nature, and spending time with my husband and two sons.
Maple Guide
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.
Oak Guide
Valerie Ramirez
I joined the St. Vrain Community Montessori School community in 2026 as a Children’s House Guide, and I’m excited to be part of this wonderful community! I have a passion for early childhood education and creating a warm, nurturing environment where children feel supported, confident, and excited to learn. I love building meaningful relationships with children and families and helping children grow through hands-on, purposeful learning. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring Colorado, paddleboarding, and spending time with family and friends. I’m looking forward to learning, growing, and making meaningful connections at SVCMS!
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.
Boxelder Lead Guide
Jessica Starman
I joined SVCMS in 2026 as a Lower Elementary Lead Guide. I started my teaching career in traditional education classrooms in Maui after attaining my B.S. in Elementary Education with minors in Art and Athletic Coaching in 2008 from Black Hills State University in Spearfish, South Dakota. During my student teaching experience, I taught art in India at Police DAV Public School in Jalandhar, India. I’ve worked various roles in SPED, PK-5th grade classrooms until I discovered the Montessori method. I completed my training at Montessori Education Center of the Rockies in 2016 and attained my Masters in Education focusing on Montessori Integrative Learning through the TIES/Endicott College online program. I moved to Boulder in 2021 and stayed at home to raise my daughter for a few years. Thereafter, I became a Lead Guide at Free Horizon Montessori in Golden. I love Montessori because it offers students a unique learning experience centered around Peace and Cosmic Education. I enjoy running, quilting, and playing music among many other things.
Conifer Lead Guide
Christine Kuebler
I joined SVCMS in 2026 as a lower elementary lead guide. I started teaching in 2005 and have taught in traditional public elementary schools, public Montessori schools and a very alternative private school, all located in and around the Seattle area. I hold a Masters Degree in teaching, Montessori certification for both lower and upper el and I was Nationally Board Certified in Literacy in 2010. If I ran the world, all schools would be Montessori schools because I love how it goes from concrete to abstract, simple to complex and I love how it fosters independent learning! I am married and I have two adult sons. I love to make art (I’m an artist!), climb mountains, and ride one of our many bikes!
Linden Lead Guide; LE Level Lead
​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.
Boxelder 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 eleven years of experience in 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 sense of peacefulness woven into the learning community. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy gardening, reading, being active, and spending time with loved ones.
Conifer Guide
Ryan Brink
I joined SVCMS in 2021 as a Lower Elementary Guide and have had the privilege of teaching in the Blue Spruce, Ponderosa, and Conifer classrooms. My favorite Montessori material is the checkerboard, as using beads to multiply large numbers makes complex math both intuitive and engaging. Being a Montessori guide has been an unexpectedly magical journey; inspiring a deep devotion to my students and a renewed passion for lifelong learning. While I currently spend much of my time pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Family and Human Development, I also enjoy reading and knitting.
Upper Elementary
Ages 9-12
Alder Lead Guide; UE Level Lead
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.
Cottonwood 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.
Juniper Lead Guide
Eve Shelden
I joined SVCMS as a parent in 2014 when my daughters were in preschool and first grade. One is now a junior in high school, and the other is a college freshman! I love Montessori in part because of how it helped shape my amazing children, and I decided to go into this field so I could pass that gift onto other families. I completed my Lower Elementary Montessori certification at MECR in 2025 and my UE certification in 2026. This is my second year serving as a Lead Guide in Juniper. I enjoy cooking, family time, rewatching Sweet Tooth, and gardening.
Willow Lead 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.
Alder Guide
Bailey Seeley
I joined SVCMS in 2025 as an Upper Elementary Guide. After graduating from Georgia State University in 2020, I spent years amongst young minds as a preschool teacher, an art teacher, and a School and Outreach Associate at the Children's Museum of Atlanta. I love the Montessori method because its thoughtful pedagogy deeply nurtures student independence. In my free time, I enjoy cozy spaces, arts and crafts, and quality time with my friends and family.
Cottonwood Guide
Sean Lovett
I am the Willow lead guide though I started as a guide in Willow North when I joined SVCMS in 2024. I have worked in education for 5 years, starting as a math tutor, and I hold my Elementary I-II credentials from Montessori Education Center of the Rockies. I love Montessori for so many reasons, but especially for the lifelong love of learning that it fosters. Outside of school, you can find me reading, crocheting, watching Jeopardy, or listening to the Grateful Dead.
Juniper Guide
Laura Bolton
I am a long-time SVCMS parent. My 3 children range from current students here to an alumni of our school. I have been a volunteer and sub at SVCMS and am excited to be a classroom guide. I have a Masters in Biochemistry from the University of Washington but found my real love was working with students. Math and science are a window into the beauty and order of the natural world, a philosophy that overlaps well with Montessori education. I love reading with my kids, family hikes in the mountains, and laughing at the antics of my dog.
Willow Guide
Olivia Muñiz
I started working at SVCMS in 2025 as a Floating Guide, and at the beginning of 2026, I also took on the role of Purchasing Coordinator to support our move and expansion. This fall, I’m excited to be a Guide in the Willow classroom while continuing my work as Purchasing Coordinator in the afternoons. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from New Mexico Highlands University, where I spent much of my college experience as a dedicated student-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 adult. 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 sewing, beading jewelry, yoga, connecting with nature, and cooking traditional foods. I love chatting about heritage, culture, art, pets, and of course...trees.
Middle School
Ages 12-14
Evergreen Lead Guide
Spanish, Social Studies, Expos
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; MS Level Lead
English Language Arts, Expos
Jamie Hamilton-Jurkovich
I've been with SVCMS since 2018 when I served as the Communication Manager. Currently, I'm the ELA Guide and Level Lead for Middle School. 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.
Evergreen Lead Guide
Math, Peace, Expos
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
Agro-ecology/Science
Kyle O'Brien
I joined SVCMS in 2023 as the Middle School Science and Agriculture Lead Guide. I grew up among the forests and oceans of California. After a period of searching and exploration, I found my way toward a life rooted in nature, meaningful work, and youth mentorship. I hold a B.A. in Wholeness-based Education and have studied permaculture, environmental science, psychology, leadership, rites of passage, and more across three continents. I love Montessori’s belief in the potential of young people. I enjoy farming, woodworking, aquaponics, cooking, sports, adventures, spending time with amazing people, and raising my two children.
Specialists
Specialized Content Across Age Groups
Art Specialist
Charlie Hickman
I was raised in the mountains outside of Boulder and love the outdoors. I find joy in a variety of creative endeavors that include painting, illustration and sewing. I started working with SVCMS in 2010, after completing the LE training at the Montessori Education Center of the Rockies (MECR) in Boulder. I studied Art and Elementary Education at Fort Lewis College in Durango and previously taught K-8 Art on the Western slope. I have been working in Elementary schools since 1995. I am currently the Elementary Art Specialist and UE Literacy Interventionist.
Environmental Education Specialist
Rachel Brooks
I joined SVCMS this year as an Upper Elementary Guide in Juniper. I have been teaching Environmental Education with many levels of students since 2021 at our local Greenway next to the school.]. My previous educational/professional experience was as an Education Ranger at Rocky Mountain National Park and then I worked at Cal-Wood Education Center for 8 years as the Curriculum Manager. My training includes a degree in Environmental Communication with an emphasis in Environmental Education. My favorite thing about Montessori is that children learn about a subject in a variety of hands- on ways. I have 3 children, all attending SVCMS and we love to get outdoors and recently car camped around Colorado!
Movement Specialist
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.
Content Specialist
Shara Davis
I joined SVCMS in 2021 and work as a Content Specialist. My personal and professional work focuses on community mental health and trauma-informed care in juvenile settings. My favorite part of my role is sharing books with our students and seeing them light up when they see themselves in, or learn something new, from a story. 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.
Library Specialist
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!
Student Support Staff
Student Success & Special Education
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 went on to teach 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 have worked as the special education lead guide and now serve as the Director of Student Services, overseeing programs and systems to ensure every student receives the academic, social-emotional, and behavioral support they need to thrive. I am thrilled to continue building systems that empower both students and staff. Outside of school, I enjoy a good cup of coffee and exploring the mountains with family and friends
Reading Support Coordinator &
Reading Interventionist
Heather Legendre
I joined SVCMS in 2012 as the Lead Guide in the Ponderosa classroom. Previous to that, I was an LE Guide at Jarrow Montessori School in Boulder. My current role is the lead Reading Interventionist and the school's Reading Support Coordinator. I support our reading intervention program across multiple levels and I work directly with K-3 students. My training includes a LE Montessori Credential from MECR, and I have certificates in both the Basic and Advanced Orton Gillingham approach to reading instruction. My family is 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.
Special Education Paraeducator
Jasmine Viele
I joined SVCMS in the Spring of 2026 as a part-time substitute teacher. I have always had a passion for caring and have an extensive background working with children, elders, and individuals with special needs and other disabilities. Before moving to Colorado, I trained and worked as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant under one of the leading retina specialists and vitreoretinal surgeons in Illinois. After starting our family, my husband and I made the decision to move to Colorado for a brighter future for us all. Thanks to my amazing husband's dedication, I was able to be a Stay-at-Home Mom and homeschool our 2 girls for the earliest stages of their lives. Once we found SVCMS, we were instantly drawn to it because it was everything we had been looking for in a school for our girls. I am now very happy and excited to be working as a SPED Paraeducator here at SVCMS.
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.
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.
