Strongbridge Montessori School was established in 2005 to fulfill the need for more quality preschool opportunities in Humboldt County. Originally started in McKinleyville, we are now located in the Guintoli Lane neighborhood of Arcata, close to Humboldt State University, shops and convienences, and only 3 miles from McKinleyville.

The school is licensed for 30 children, has a well-appointed, large interior that includes bathrooms, two large classrooms with hardwood floors and high ceilings. The large playground is situated at the front and side of the building and boasts a castle, a climbing frame/slide, large sand box, water tables, geodesic dome climbing frames, and a teeter-totter helicopter. A large playhouse outfitted with kitchen ammenities including cooking implements and play food encourages imaginary play, as does the water/sand table, the play trucks, and playhouse cubes. The wagons, tricycles and play cars allow for large motor coordination skills as well as racing fun!

 

Hilary

Director/ Head Teacher:


Hilary Mosher, M.S., received her Montessori credential in 1972 from the St. Nicholas Centre in London, England established by Dr. Montessori. Hilary was very fortunate to study under two of Dr. Montessori's most avid students, Phoebe Childs and Margaret Homfray.

Hilary has a bachelor's degree from Goddard College in Vermont, and a Master's from the University of Oregon. She has been an educator on every level for over 30 years in Europe and the U.S.

Laura 

 

Co-Teacher:

Laura Guldin

Laura received her Montessori credential in 1994 from the American Montessori Society training program at the Northwest Educational Institute in Seattle, Washington. She received her B.A. in psychology and her New York City teaching credential (K-2) in 1970 from the University of Rochester.

Laura worked in New York preschools for several years, after which she worked as a massage therapist, vegetarian cook and bookkeeper. She enjoys organic gardening, mud building, travel, riding her trusty bike and is interested in natural healing.

Cindy 

 

Co-Teacher:

Cindy Shay

An Arcata native, Cindy graduated from Arcata High School and received an Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from the College of the Redwoods. Her teaching career began at Mistwood Montessori School in 1983 where she taught for nine years. Eventually Cindy moved to Vancouver, Washington where she taught at the Camas Montessori School for four years before moving back to Humboldt. Cindy enjoys choral singing, beading, and jewelry making, as well as Beatles music.


For more information about Montessori here are some useful links to the North American Montessori Teacher's Association.