"The first duty of an education is to stir up life,
but leave it free to develop."
- Maria Montessori
My Story
Michelle is the founder, owner, and Chief Executive Officer of Rolling Hills Montessori. Born and raised in England, she pursued her education at Rosebank Business School in South Africa before returning to England to follow her true passion—education.
In 1988, Michelle began her Montessori journey and graduated from St. Nicholas Montessori Training School in London with a Highly Commended Teaching Credential.
In 1989, Michelle and her husband visited the United States and quickly fell in love with California, later relocating with their three sons. She continued her work in education with the Palos Verdes Unified School District, supporting both special-needs children and Kindergarten classrooms.
Although rewarding, Michelle deeply missed the Montessori philosophy that shaped her teaching. She returned to Montessori education as a Director and Teacher at a local school, where her vision continued to grow.
Opening her own Montessori school had always been Michelle’s dream. After finding the perfect location in 2006— that dream became a reality—Rolling Hills Montessori, lovingly referred to as her “fourth child.”
Meet the Lead Teachers
"The greatest sign of success for a teacher... is to be able to say,
'The children are now working as if I did not exist.'"
- Maria Montessori
© Picture Perfect Photos
Room 1 - Toddler Class
Miss Tracy
Has been part of the RHM Family since 2018
What I love about Montessori?
As a Montessori toddler teacher, I am continuously inspired by the remarkable growth and development of each child. The Montessori method fosters independence, nurtures fine motor skills, and cultivates practical life abilities. As the year progresses, it is beautiful to witness the toddler students successfully accomplish their daily activities and take pride in their learning. I love the Montessori method because it also encourages building positive relationships with one another and with the world we all share together.
© Picture Perfect Photos
Room 2 - Preschool
Miss Hayley
Has been part of the RHM Family since 2021
What I love about Montessori?
I love Montessori because it nurtures independence, confidence, and a genuine love of learning in every child. I’m inspired by how Montessori respects each child’s individuality and pace, creating an environment where children feel capable and supported. Watching their growth truly amazes me, and I feel so proud to be a part of their journey each day.
© Picture Perfect Photos
Room 3 - TK/Kindergarten
Miss Mishelle
Has been part of the RHM Family since 2007
What I love about Montessori?
Montessori is a deeply rewarding philosophy for me as a teacher. My role is to prepare a thoughtfully designed environment that encourages independence and a true love of learning. I focus on nurturing self-motivation, concentration, and emotional growth, while honoring each child’s individual pace of development. By creating a calm and peaceful classroom rooted in collaboration and respect for others, I support children as they grow in confidence and essential skills. Helping prepare them for the next step in their educational journey is what I value most.
© Picture Perfect Photos
Room 4 - Preschool
Miss Trish
Has been part of the RHM Family since 2019
What I love about Montessori?
Taking to heart our responsibilities as teachers, the Montessori teacher is not defined in the traditional sense that he/she is the bearer of all information. The teacher and the child learn from each other, and the teacher’s main goal is to ensure that the (classroom) environment is ready for the child, that the activities are complete and in order. To ensure the success of each student, the teacher is there to make possible revisions and provide alternatives to lessons and materials. I take pride in actively participating in the holistic formation of independent learners through a systematic study of the various educational theories and making them work for the present-day child.
© Picture Perfect Photos
Room 5 - Preschool
Miss Nancy
Has been part of the RHM Family since 2016
What I love about Montessori?
I fell in love with the structure and organization of the Montessori classroom. It fosters independence by trusting and respecting each child, offering materials that engage and challenge them, and nurturing internal motivation and confidence. Through this approach, children develop strong academic skills and a deep sense of self, and it is an honor to be part of that growth.