Teachers & Staff

Nadia Houmadi

Toddler Sunbeam Lead Guide

Ms. Nadia brings over a decade of experience in early childhood education and a warm, nurturing approach that supports each child's growing independence, confidence, and sense of belonging. As a mother of two, she understands the importance of creating a calm, respectful environment where young children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore the world around them.

Passionate about child development, Nadia looks forward to continuing her professional growth through Montessori training. Outside the classroom, she enjoys fitness, preparing healthy meals, and embracing a balanced and active lifestyle.

Vitória Castro

Assistant Guide

Vitória is a dedicated educator who has completed Montessori training through the Prepared Montessorian Institute. As a mother of a young child, she brings both personal and professional insight into supporting the developmental needs of young learners with patience, warmth, and understanding.

She is currently continuing her studies at Fisher College and enjoys graphic design and creative arts, which inspire many of the thoughtful and engaging experiences she brings to the classroom.

Rebeca Oliveira

Assistant Guide

Rebeca holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Montclair State University and has a deep passion for child development and early childhood education. She is currently pursuing Montessori training and continues to grow professionally through both study and hands-on classroom experience.

Affectionately known as a "child magnet," Rebeca brings warmth, energy, and genuine care to her work. Her ability to build meaningful connections helps create an environment where children feel safe, confident, and inspired to learn.

Alexandra Shepard

Primary Sunset Lead Guide

Alexandra is a dedicated Montessori educator with over five years of classroom experience. She is Montessori-certified through the North American Montessori Center and holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Psychology from Worcester State University.

Committed to lifelong learning, Alexandra will begin the Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Child and Adolescent Psychology in Fall 2026. She values each child's unique developmental journey and thoughtfully supports both academic growth and social-emotional well-being, helping children become confident, compassionate, and capable individuals.

Nehara Pieris

Substitute Lead Guide

Nehara is an experienced educator originally from Sri Lanka with a strong background in early childhood education. She holds a Diploma in Montessori and Primary Education from the Royal Institute of Colombo and has completed AMI Primary Montessori training.

As a mother of two, Nehara is passionate about supporting children's development and helping build strong foundations for lifelong learning. She brings warmth, patience, and dedication to every classroom she serves. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, singing, and spending time with her family.

Roberta Medina Costa, M.Ed., AMI 3–6

Head of School

Roberta is a dedicated Montessori educator and school leader with an AMI Primary (3–6) Diploma. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Baruch College and a Master of Education with a Montessori concentration from the University of Hartford. She is also an incoming doctoral student in the Educational Leadership for Social Justice Ed.D. program at the University of Hartford.

With experience as both a Montessori lead teacher and school director, Roberta is passionate about fostering independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning in children and adults alike. Originally from Brazil and a mother of four, she brings Montessori principles into both her professional work and family life. She is committed to building a strong school community rooted in respect, collaboration, and the belief that every child has the potential to thrive.