Upper Elementary

India brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Phoenix Montessori Academy, with a distinguished career in Montessori education spanning nearly three decades. She has been an integral part of the Montessori community since 1995 and has served as Head of School since 2004.

India is a seasoned educator and trainer, specializing in Montessori Elementary I and II (math and philosophy) as well as Montessori Secondary I. Her commitment to Montessori education is reflected in her comprehensive academic background. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Belmont Abbey College, where she graduated cum laude from the honors program. Furthering her dedication to Montessori pedagogy, India achieved certification in Montessori Elementary I & II (grades 1-3 and 4-6) and Montessori Secondary I (grades 7-8).

Her academic journey continued at Endicott College, where she completed a master’s program and earned a Master’s degree in Education, with a specialization in Montessori and Integrated Learning. Currently, India is advancing her educational expertise as a doctoral student at The University of Wisconsin River Falls.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, India is a devoted spouse, parent, and grandparent. Her passion for education and her commitment to nurturing the growth and development of both students and teachers make her an invaluable leader at Phoenix Montessori Academy.

Jackie Marino has been a certified K-5 teacher since 2019, teaching upper elementary aged children. She is currently working on her AMS credential.

She came to Montessori education because of her belief in developing the whole child. She particularly likes the approach the Montessori philosophy takes in regards to freedom with responsibility, and grace and courtesy.

She believes that children are the future and enjoys being a part of cultivating the next generation. She loves playing volleyball and pickleball, reading, spending time with her family, and crafting. 

Stephen has been supporting independence and academic growth since 2005 in Montessori classrooms. Students appreciate his respect for the individual, ability to follow their interests, incorporate storytelling into his lessons, and create immersive simulations where they may learn by doing. These strengths have been published and presented at conferences in the Montessori community.

Prior to entering the educational field, Stephen had a career in computer science. This path culminated in five years at NASA. Amongst other missions, he worked on the twin rover missions, Spirit & Discovery.

At home, Stephen appreciates board gaming. The hobby has influenced his academic simulations, as well as creating class systems. His passion for art also finds its way into the classroom. It is hard to find a child who can not find something with which to connect to Stephen as their teacher.

Stephen has a BS in computer science from SUNY Binghamton, and an MA degree in education from San Jose State University. His Upper Elementary Montessori credential is from the CMTE training center.