Our Story at Spicebush

Kirsti serves as Teacher Leader at Spicebush Montessori, where they guide a classroom grounded in equity, curiosity, and thoughtful observation. They approach their work with a steady belief that children deserve to be affirmed both as they are and as they long to be. Within a carefully prepared Montessori environment, Kirsti supports children in building independence, concentration, and authentic confidence. Their leadership balances structure with flexibility, allowing space for movement, deep focus, collaboration, and rest. They pay close attention to how each child experiences the classroom, recognizing that growth looks different for every learner. Kirsti is certified (Birth–3) through the American Montessori Society and brings over ten years of experience working with children from birth through second grade. They hold a degree in Early Care and Education from Delaware Technical Community College and are currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Human and Social Services at Springfield College. Their academic work strengthens their commitment to equity, social-emotional development, and community-centered care. As an autistic educator with ADHD, Kirsti brings lived insight to their inclusive practice. They are especially attuned to sensory needs, executive functioning differences, and the diverse ways children communicate and regulate. The classroom reflects this understanding — sometimes lively or calm, responsive, and intentionally designed so that children feel safe to be fully themselves without pressure to mask or conform. Beyond the classroom, Kirsti also leads Spicebush Montessori’s social media presence, sharing authentic glimpses of Montessori work in action. Through thoughtful storytelling, they help families see the depth, joy, and intentionality behind the daily rhythms of the school. Kirsti believes that when children feel understood and affirmed, they develop not only skills, but a grounded sense of self that carries forward into every stage of life.

Kira serves as a Teaching Partner at Spicebush Montessori, where they bring collaboration, steadiness, and a strong foundation in inclusive education to the classroom community. They are committed to supporting children in ways that honor individual strengths and encourage growing independence. Kira graduated from Millersville University with a dual degree in Education and Special Education. Their academic background equips them with a deep understanding of differentiated instruction, learning differences, and strengths-based support. With nearly a decade of experience working with children from kindergarten through sixth grade, Kira brings both range and practical classroom wisdom to their role. In addition to their public school experience, Kira has worked in multiple Montessori settings, gaining hands-on experience within prepared environments and mixed-age classrooms. They understand the importance of order, consistency, and thoughtful observation in supporting child-led learning and sustained concentration. As an autistic educator with ADHD, Kira brings lived insight into sensory processing, executive functioning, and the varied ways children communicate and engage. Their presence in the classroom reinforces Spicebush’s commitment to inclusive practice and ensures that neurodivergent children see themselves reflected in leadership. At Spicebush, Kira plays an essential role in maintaining the prepared environment — carefully tending materials, supporting work cycles, and collaborating closely with the Teacher Leader to ensure continuity throughout the day. They also help guide our extended care program, offering thoughtful supervision and relational consistency beyond core classroom hours. Kira values persistence, clarity, and community. Through their work, they help cultivate a classroom culture where children feel safe to explore, connect, and grow in confidence.