Montessori Teacher Training
Montessori Teacher Training is an intensive academic program of learning, observing and student teaching followed by rigorous examinations. The faculty is the most critical element in developing a strong Montessori program. Our teachers are the primary link between the school and the families.
State Licensing Requirements
The Educational/Administrative Director, Lead Teachers and full-time assistants are certified by the State of Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care.
Staff
Debbie Jernegan is our Educational Administrative Director. Debbie has worked in the Early Education and Care field for fourteen years. She has served as a preschool director for the previous nine years. She has a master's degree in management; and has served in a managerial capacity for over twenty-one years. She is affiliated with NAEYC, Head Start Policy Council Member, and MVCYC; and is a EEC certified director.
Chris Rasmussen is returning for her 10th consecutive year as a primary lead teacher at VMS. Chris has over twenty years experience with toddler and primary levels in a Montessori environment. She holds two AMS certifications from the Center for Montessori Teacher Education in New Rochelle, NY. Prior to joining the VMS staff Chris taught at the Whitby School in Greenwich, CT.
Deneen Convery will be returning for her 5th consecutive year as primary lead teacher. Deneen has a B.A. in French and European History from U. of New Orleans and speaks fluent French. Deneen completed her AMI Montessori training from the Montessori Institute of Atlanta in June, 1996. She has over ten years of teaching experience guiding her students in a prepared Montessori environment in accordance with Montessori philosophy.
Holly Bruguiere is a primary classroom assistant in Chris' classroom. Holly received an Associates degree from Champlain College, Burlington, VT., and has received her Lead Teacher Certification from the MA Dept of Early Education and Care. Holly models integrity, curiosity, responsibility and respect for all the students and staff. Holly has taught together with Chris for 8 years.
Irene Wendt is returning for her 6th consecutive year as the lead teacher in the elementary classroom. She received her Bachelors degree in Business Administration from Baker College and her Masters degree in Early Childhood Education from Wheelock College. She holds a degree for Montessori Elementary I from the Seacoast Center for Education and is certified as a Lead Teacher through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Education.