Our Story
Grace
Grace has a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and has lived in New York City as a designer and event producer before she became a mother of three.
“Like all moms, I dream of creating the best environment for my children to grow up in—one where they are equipped with the tools to enjoy learning, navigate their emotions, and build confidence in themselves. I want to know that as they grow, they’ll carry that joy and light in their eyes these along with these essential life skills with them.
Through a lot of trial and error, I eventually discovered Montessori—a framework that helped my children make sense of the world around them. As I watched my first child thrive under Montessori education, I became a firm believer. To me, Montessori isn’t just a method of learning—it’s a way of life. It brings joy, respect, and a sense of calm order into our everyday experiences. Eventually we were able to start this little school together and through the process I also received my AMS credential.
As we created this environment for our own children, something beautiful began to take shape—a loving, growing community. Together, we’ve built more than just a classroom. We’ve nurtured long-lasting relationships and a tight-knit village that continues to support and uplift one another.
I truly cherish the wonder and delight of early childhood, and it’s my hope to share this kind of environment with other children and families around us..”
Kim
Kim has more than thirty years experience teaching in Montessori schools in the Bay Area.
“My interest in Montessori began in the 1980s when I was searching for a school for my son. After visiting several early childhood programs I enrolled my son in a Montessori program in Berkeley where I became a regular volunteer. I immediately felt a strong sense of community within the classroom and the school. Soon after, I decided to enroll in a training program in the Bay Area. I completed the Montessori training in 1984 and obtained a B.A. in Human Development with a focus on Early Childhood Education. Montessori has enabled me to see the pure joy that is expressed by young children as they begin to grasp the concepts and ideas that propel them forward. When Grace approached me with her vision of creating Tilden Little House, I could feel her enthusiasm, and I saw an opportunity to become part of a new and exciting collaboration. I am honored and thrilled to be a part of the Tilden Little House team”.
Gloria
Gloria has been a Montessori teacher
“It has been a delight to be part of the Tilden Little House community! I have always loved to be around children, but did not find my calling right away. In college, I trained to be a CPA but soon after graduating realized that this would not be a satisfying career. Having always had a love of children and interest in more humanistic pursuits, I was soon introduced to the Montessori Philosophy and subsequently went through the training. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to learn from both Dr. Silvia Duvoboy and Dr. Silvana Montanaro in San Diego. During my training with these amazing educators, I fell in love with Montessori’s ability to nourish the children’s needs. I have taken the AMI certification for both the infant and primary children, but after many years in the classroom I have found that my favorite children to work with are the younger ones. Since then I have been working with younger children. Everyday I am very excited to meet the children and spend time with them.”