Common Threads Montessori staff Elaine, Dragica, Michele, Tamara, Jena, Sunnie & Trudy

Michele Heaton, Director

Co-founder of Common Threads. Twenty-eight years experience teaching and directing preschool programs. Early Childhood Education training through Cabrillo College and Montessori World Education Institute.

“The Montessori method is an incredible framework within which to work with the young child. The materials are amazing and so beautifully support the child’s natural desire to learn. When children are in a loving and exciting environment and truly seen by their teachers they are able to come into a balance that is beautiful to watch. They become confident, respectful people that are sparked to learning and life. To be in this environment daily is a challenging, magical, and infinitely rewarding gift."

Jena Massengill, Head Teacher

Co-founder of Common Threads. Thirty years experience teaching and directing preschool programs. Former owner of Namaste Montessori in Felton, California. American Montessori Internationale training and certification.

“Every day brings gifts that come from your precious children, as well as the experience of being in harmony with the most amazing women, my best friends. We all share a daily, mutual exchange of joy, love, respect, challenge, and tremendous opportunity for personal growth. Add a truckload of humor to the mix and what do I have? A gift. My life is my work and my work is my life.”

Trudy Kretschmer, Teacher

Ninth year at Common Threads. Thirteen years experience teaching in preschool programs. A.S. in Early Childhood Education, Canada College. Montessori coursework.

“Once I began working in a Montessori classroom I saw the beauty of the prepared environment which supports the child’s innate sense of order and follows the child's blossoming interests and capacities. Common Threads is the best of both worlds in my view. The Montessori materials and methods are available and employed daily, as well as creative and dramatic play and art. This blend expands the traditional Montessori environment providing a rich, well-rounded experience."

Dragica Strbac, Teacher Assistant

Sixth year at Common Threads. Early Childhood Education and Montessori coursework.

"I love the Montessori philosophy, neatness and order, the academics, and the way we look at each child as a unique individual. The children are capable of learning so much. The staff care deeply about each child, and we have great communication, collaborating daily. Every day I am so happy to come to Common Threads. It's a paradise for me. I love it!"

Elaine Smith,
Substitute and Break Teacher

Twelfth year at Common Threads. Twenty-one plus years experience. Elaine provides support to our teachers during the afternoon lunch breaks. She is an artist of life, a wise woman, and a mentor to us all.

"In over twenty years of working in Montessori schools I have never worked with such a compatible and talented staff. The welfare of the children is always the highest priority."

"I enjoy working with the preschool age child as they "live in the now." At Common Threads the children are amazingly kind to one another and the theme of "loving kindness" is always present. I have nothing but admiration for the school and people who work here. I feel lucky to be a part of it. It's like a family."

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