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Meet Our Teachers & Staff
Montessori certified educators and staff experienced in early childhood education
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Our teachers and staff are Montessori certified and trained with extensive experience in early childhood care.
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Little Blossom Montessori teachers follow the Montessori Method developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. It’s a child-centered educational approach that values the human spirit and development of the “whole child” – physically, socially, emotionally and cognitively.
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Siji George
Founder & Head of SchoolIn 2008, I founded Little Blossom Montessori to develop a reputed school in the Chicago suburbs to serve my community. I believe all children deserve love, attention, nurturing and guidance in a safe learning environment where they can explore and grow.
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Shailaja Santhanam
DirectressI have been teaching as a Montessori Directress since 2002. I hold a Bachelor’s degree with a specialization in History and Education, and I received my Montessori certification from the Seton Montessori Institute in Clarendon Hills, Illinois.
Working with children brings me genuine joy. Being part of a child’s growth and development is, to me, a reward in itself. My goal is to guide each child toward becoming the best version of themselves, nurturing their independence, confidence, and natural love of learning.
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Denise Testin
DirectorMy name is Denise Testin, and I am so proud to be the new director of Little Blossom Montessori School. I have my B.S. in Elementary Education from NIU and my ECE certificate from WCC. I am a passionate educator with 30 years of Montessori leadership experience including teaching for 5 years and running Naperville Montessori School for 25 years. I believe that Montessori early childhood education is the best foundation for your child’s development. It is during this period that they form independence, self-confidence, and a love of learning. I hope to welcome you to our authentic Montessori program and look forward to partnering with you to raise the next generation of joyful leaders.
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Madhuri Gupta
Pre Primary TeacherI hold dual master’s degrees in chemistry and education, along with AMS certification in Montessori Early Childhood Education, and over 20 years of teaching experience. I am passionate about Montessori philosophy because I believe that hands-on experiences are essential for helping children build confidence and develop a lifelong love of learning.
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Anusree
Pre Primary TeacherMy name is Anusree. I hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science engineering and am a Certified Child Care Professional (CCP) as well as a Certified Montessori Early Childhood Assistant from MMTEC.
I am passionate about creating a supportive and nurturing learning environment where children develop independence, build self-confidence, and embrace their unique identities. My goal is to foster a safe and inspiring space where children feel empowered to explore, take initiative, and grow into confident, compassionate individuals.
I am delighted to be part of the Little Blossom Community and look forward to contributing positively to our learning community.
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Lopamudra Dash
Lead TeacherMy name is Lopamudra Dash. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology and Management and have completed Nursery and Primary Teacher Training in India. I am also a certified CCAP-trained educator with over three years of teaching experience.
I am passionate about early childhood education and fostering a love for learning in young minds. In addition to classroom teaching, I enjoy leading robotics sessions where I encourage creativity, problem-solving, and innovation.
As a Lead Teacher, I am grateful to be part of each child’s learning journey. Witnessing their growth, resilience, and joy inspires me every day. I am delighted to be part of the Little Blossom Community and look forward to contributing positively to our learning community. -
Sangeetha
Pre Primary TeacherMy name is Sangeetha, and I am a Certified Childcare Professional (CCP) with a master’s degree in Philosophy and strong academic grounding in early childhood education. I bring specialized expertise in creating structured, nurturing, and inclusive learning environments that support children’s holistic development. I am deeply committed to fostering confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning, and I am proud to be part of the Little Blossom Montessori Community.
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Christy Nalini
Pre Primary TeacherMy name is Christy Nalini. I hold a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in computer science, and I am also a Certified Child Care Professional (CCP). I find great joy in working with young children and I am passionate about guiding them with care and understanding. Inspired by the Montessori approach, I nurture children through love, patience, and engaging hands-on learning experiences that help them grow with focus and confidence.
I am delighted to be part of the Little Blossom Community and look forward to contributing positively to our learning community.
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Makhmuda Olimjonova
Pre Primary TeacherMy name is Makhmuda Olimjonova, and I have completed a bachelor’s degree in Telecommunications Engineering. Alongside my academic background, I am
deeply passionate about caring for young children and supporting their development from birth to 1.5 years of age. Working with children brings me
great joy and allows me to connect with them in a nurturing, patient, and attentive way. I strive to create an environment where children feel safe, happy, and loved. I am honored to be part of the Little Blossom Montessori community. -
Kathy Boss
Pre Primary Lead TeacherAs a lead teacher for our pre primary program, I have a degree in early childhood education and over 25 years experience. I’m passionate about the Montessori philosophy and received my Montessori Early Childhood Certification from AMS.
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Vijaya Sigiri
Pre-Primary Lead TeacherI am extremely passionate about teaching and have both traditional elementary school teacher training as well as a master’s in political science. I pursued my Montessori early childhood education from AMS in 2010 and have been working in Montessori environment for over 10 years. I love working with children and enjoy watching them grow and progress.
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Anita Kumari
Lead Toddler TeacherI am an enthusiastic and compassionate educator specialising in toddler teaching, With a bachelor’s degree in education and qualifications as a Paraprofessional in Montessori I possess a strong foundation in fostering the growth and well-being of young minds.
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Annie Jeevanantham
Infant/Toddler TeacherHaving worked in an Infant/Toddler Montessori environment for over 20 years, I have dedicated my soul and passion to young children. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching them grow into beautiful individuals. I am excited to continue my journey with these little hearts!
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Merlin Thomas
Young Toddler TeacherWith a dual background in pharmacy and early childhood education, I have been dedicatedly serving Little Blossom since 2017. My greatest joy lies in infusing positivity, exploration, and learning into the lives of the children under my care, fostering a nurturing and enjoyable environment.
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Durdona Turdieva
Toddler TeacherAs an educator with a CDA in early childhood education, I possess a deep understanding of nurturing young minds. My passion for working with children fuels my ability to connect with diverse age groups.
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Shweta Shinde
Pre Primary TeacherPassionate teacher dedicated to fostering a love for learning in young minds. Enthusiastic about creating a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can explore and develop their unique talents.
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OnDreia Epstein
Pre Primary Lead TeacherI have been teaching Montessori for over 30 years and I am AMS certified. I believe in the Montessori Method and what it offers the children. It makes them independent thinkers and provides them with skills that will last a lifetime. I am proud to be a Montessori teacher and of my accomplishments.
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Laxmi Mannem
Lead Toddler TeacherWith my ECE education from Wabounsie College, I possess the necessary knowledge to nurture toddlers. Recognizing that toddler development is crucial for every individual, I take pride in assisting children to cultivate their independence and embrace their unique identities.
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Umida Sadullaeva
Toddler TeacherI am a highly dedicated and passionate individual who thrives on working with toddlers. With extensive experience in the toddler age group, I have developed a deep understanding of their needs and requirements. My commitment to fostering their growth and development is a cornerstone of my work.
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We and our children love Little Blossom! The staff are very caring and we are very impressed with how our little ones have grown academically since joining the school. Our kindergartener just graduated and we feel she’s extremely prepared to enter 1st grade.
Little Blossom is an amazing atmosphere for our children to learn. The staff, teachers and director have all been very helpful with guiding our child’s academic successes. It’s a place where a child has many opportunities to grow socially, emotionally and academically.
My son absolutely loves going to Little Blossom for preschool. We’ve noticed a huge boost in his level of independence and social skills since he started attending 3 months ago. The staff is very kind and great communicating with the parents.
Little Blossom Montessori is an excellent school. Top-notch teachers who really care and lots of extra-curricular activities. Our son is 3 years old we’re really happy with his teacher … and feel he’s getting the best education!
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Why Montessori?
Why choose Montessori for my child?
Our experienced Montessori trained teachers and faculty follow the revolutionary philosophy and educational approach of Dr. Maria Montessori. Our Montessori program and prepared classrooms provide creative and stimulating hands-on learning experiences that foster age appropriate development.
Positive reinforcement is important for children to develop a healthy self-esteem in an environment that supports free expression, independence and enthusiasm for learning.
What is the Montessori curriculum?
The Montessori curriculum emphasizes learning as a process. We offer five challenging, individually-focused education and social development programs that allow children to grow at their own pace.
Our interrelated curriculum is focused on Practical Life, Language, Sensorial, Mathematics, Geography and Science. Each area helps develop the complete – or whole – child and allows them to function successfully in their current environment and in the future.
Since Montessori is self-directed, will my child learn social skills?
Yes. While the Montessori Method does foster independence and growth through individual work, it also places great emphasis on the importance on the development of social skills.
Little Blossom Montessori teaches children to respect themselves, their peers, teachers, parents, community and the environment. We also teach them how to be courteous, polite and helpful.
How will my child adjust to traditional school after Montessori?
This is one of the most common questions parents ask. Whether it be kindergarten, middle school or college, at some point in life most Montessori students will begin some other type of school.
Life is full of change and as long as children are equipped with the necessary coping tools and skills, they will be well-prepared with their Montessori education and experiences.
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Here's Why Parents Choose Us: