My name is Mary Gallardy and I am the Director at Alfred Montessori School. I am originally from State College, PA. My family and I moved to the area in June 2020 for my husband's job at Alfred State College. I graduated from Lock Haven University with a B.S. in Disabilities and Community Services, with a minor in Dance. In addition I am Montessori certified through the North American Montessori Center. I have been in Early Childhood Education for the last 10 years. I began my time at Alfred Montessori School in September 2020 as a Lead Teacher. I became Director in November 2021. Prior to AMS, I was a Lead Primary Teacher at Our Children's Center Montessori, located in State College, PA.
The Montessori method has always been a passion of mine, I am forever honored to be a part of a child’s journey and assist them in finding their confidence. Dr. Montessori is quoted saying "Of all things love is the most potent." I do my best everyday to live this quote out in my interactions with all humans, especially the students.
Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Drew, and our two boys, Elam and Abram. A few of our favorite things are being outside, reading, and attending Alfred State College football games!
I am Nalini Sundaram and I am the Assistant Director. I have obtained four degrees, BA and MA in English Literature and Bachelors in Education and Masters of Philosophy in Education. I have taught in private and public schools in India. Overall, I have over 25 years of teaching experience, 17 of them in private and public schools and daycare in the states of Washington, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. I like living in this quiet community and educating the local children. I learn from them as much as I teach them. I also enjoy watching them grow. What I like the most about Alfred Montessori is the safe, positive, and warm environment that energizes me. I enjoy working with my fellow teachers and students.
Intro coming soon!
My name is Cheryl Quagliato. I grew up on a small farm in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. In the fall of 1988, I graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a dual certification in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. In 1993, I moved to Alfred with my husband after he had accepted a teaching position at Alfred State College. Shortly after our arrival, I learned about the Alfred Montessori School and became a teacher in the preschool room. I appreciated the value of this child-centered approach to learning. My favorite thing about teaching is that I enjoy observing the children’s curiosity and desire to learn in the Montessori classroom.
My name is Katrina McMichael and I am the Lead Toddler 1 Teacher. I grew up in Almond and now reside in Alfred Station. I graduated from Alfred-Almond Central School in 2002 and have received my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Post University in August 2020. I am a mother of three. I have two boys are ages nineteen, and nine, and a daughter who is sixteen. Prior to working at Alfred Montessori School I was an Assistant Teacher at Lovin' Arms Family Daycare, where I worked with children ages 6 weeks to age 12. I am excited to be the Lead Teacher in the Toddler Classroom and I look forward to working with your children during the school year.
My name is Nadia Jeridi. I am of Franco-Tunisian origin. I speak fluently English, French, Arabic and some Italian. I love trips, was lucky to be in many countries and discover different cultures! I’m a friendly person! I enjoy spending time with my family and kids in the class! I’ve been a Teacher Assistant and a Teacher for 13 years in USA and abroad .
Intro coming soon!
My name is Nicole Fletcher, and my nickname is Nikki. I have worked at AMS for the past several years in many different classrooms, but during the school year I work in the Toddler 2 classroom. I love getting to know these students and to watch them grow over the course of the school year.
My name is Heather Biddle and I live in Arkport, New York. I am the Infant Lead Teacher. I graduated with a high school diploma and my Certificate in Early Childhood Development. In addition I have my CDA (Child Development Associates) for infants/toddlers. I have one daughter who is my pride and joy. I have over 15 years experience working with children from newborn - 15 years old. I enjoy working with all of the smiley faces that I see every day and for the opportunity to teach them.