Our Staff

With a background in early education since 2006, Julia brings both experience and a genuine love for working with children. She has worked in both in-home and public preschool/ kindergarten settings. She holds a master's degree in early education and an AMI Primary diploma. Julia loves connecting with children and their families, and is fulfilled by the daily joy and satisfaction of seeing children grow and learn. She joined AEME in 2024.

Anna has been with Alder Montessori since 2022 and has experience in both public, charter and private schools. She has over 20 years of experience as a Montessori guide with a Master's in early childhood education. Anna has an AMI Primary Montessori Diploma (ages 2 1/2 to 6).

Claudia has been closely connected with the Alder neighborhood since she attended nearby Reynolds High School. Formerly, she worked assisting seniors, and has been with Alder Montessori since 2019. She chose this work because she loves to help people, especially the kids. She loves her work because she loves to see the students smile when she helps them out.

Yaneth is a graduate of Reynolds High School, and has worked as a nursing assistant prior to joining AEME in 2022. Yaneth describes herself as friendly and education enthusiastic. She enjoys supporting the classroom and the children. Yaneth's children are Alder Montessori alumni, which is how she came to join our school team.

I was a student at alder elementary school, super happy that I get to work at this school because ever since I was little I always wanted to work with children. I love to help families and their children, children bring me joy and excitement! Lupita has worked with Alder Montessori since January of 2023, starting as a classroom float, then a classroom aide, and in Fall of 2025 as a Primary Classroom Assistant.

Cris moved from California to Oregon in January 2026. He has 3 years of experience working in special education and he is a huge advocate for growth mindset and is currently working towards a degree in early education. Cris enjoys rock and roll music, tacos and free style writing.

Sarai has been in the childcare field for 10 years. She joined AEME in 2024. Through various roles she has supported the growth and development of children at all ages and stages. Sarai feels a deep passion about building a strong community for all families and about the benefits early childhood education brings into each child’s life. She looks forward to connecting with all families!

Deana began her exploration of alternative education in 2020 when she began her college “Great Books Education”. After her undergraduate degree from St. John’s College in Santa Fe, NM, she jumped into a graduate program and at the same time, became a Spanish teacher at Desert Montessori School. With teaching experience and a master’s degree under her belt, Deana joined AEME in 2025 as an Interim Coordinator. She’s excited to remain with AEME as our Coordinator for our new school, and also start a year long training program to become a Montessori Teacher/Lead Guide.

Liora joined AEME in spring of 2020 and has over 25 years of leadership experience designing, managing and advocating for quality, innovative, and equitable services and supports for low-income individuals and families in our Portland-Metro community. Liora has a Masters in Public Administration from PSU, and is a strong advocate of providing free and low-cost Montessori education in collaboration with our local public schools and community partners.

Sandip joined AEME in 2023 as Alder Montessori School Manager. She has over 15 years of experience as an early childhood educator and administrator and has been involved in opening new Montessori classrooms in India, Australia, and England- and mentoring new Montessori teachers. She has her BA in Children’s Learning and Development and earned her Montessori diploma in London, where she was born and raised. Sandip loves connecting with parents and taking care of very young children.