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Faculty | Administration

Meet the School Administration
Head of School

Andrea O'Brian

Princeton Montessori School is led by Andrea O’Brian, MA.,Ed. Andrea joined Princeton Montessori School in 2005 and brings close to 20 years of experience as an independent school administrator to the Head of School position, most recently having served as Assistant Head of School since 2017.

During her tenure, Andrea has led professional development initiatives for administrative teams, focusing on interpersonal skills, and is a frequent presenter at local and national conferences on leadership topics. She has also served on several school reaccreditation teams for both independent and Montessori schools, and sat on the executive board of the New Jersey Montessori Administrators’ Corporation (NJMAC) from 2018 to 2020. Prior to joining Princeton Montessori, Andrea worked at an international management consultancy before founding her own graphic design company while remaining at home to raise her four children.

Andrea believes that the Montessori approach to education allows all children to reach their fullest potential, without limits. Each child is unique, and needs a secure, carefully-prepared and purposefully-designed environment in which to grow emotionally, academically, and socially. Education should be a joyful experience for the child. Learning is not about rote memorization or the ability to perform well on a test. Instead, education should focus on the excitement of a new discovery, the thrill of improving one’s self, and the idea of finding success and contentment in whatever one chooses to do. Her goal in education is to have the opportunity to shape an environment where teachers are respected for the critically important work they do to allow the innate love of learning to unfold in each child.

Andrea holds a MA in Education, specializing in Montessori Studies, from St. Catherine’s University, MN, and a BA in Graphic Design from The College of New Jersey, NJ. She also holds an American Montessori Society (AMS) Administrator credential through Princeton Center for Teacher Education (PCTE), NJ; has participated in the AMS Anti-Bias, Anti-Racist (ABAR) Professional Development Course; and completed the International Baccaleuarate (IB) Head of school - Middle Years Programme (Cat.1) training.

Admissions Director

Tracey Baskin

Tracey Baskin joined Princeton Montessori School in 2017 and is currently responsible for coordinating the school’s admissions process with families.

Tracey brings a passion for the Montessori philosophy having experienced it as a student and now as a parent. She is thrilled to lead Admissions, helping parents discover a Montessori education and building strong partnerships with families. When not at school, Tracey enjoys playing basketball and spending time with her husband and two daughters.

Tracey holds an MS in Mental Health Counseling from Monmouth University, NJ and a BA in Psychology from Franklin & Marshall College, PA. She has competed the Montessori philosophy course through PCTE and is currently pursuing a certification in Admissions and Enrollment Management through AISAP.

Health Coordinator, RN

Vicky Chen

Vicky Chen joined Princeton Montessori School in 2024 and is the school Nurse.

Vicky is passionate about children, education and nursing, which makes her a perfect fit for Princeton Montessori School.

In her free time, Vicky enjoys fitness classes, loves baking and trying new recipes as well as attending her children's sporting events and activities. She love to plan road trips to national parks with her husband and five young children.

Vicky graduated from SUNY Stony Brook University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2012. Her academic background also includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry obtained in 2009.

Student & Faculty Services Coordinator

Jennifer Christiano-Boyle

Jennifer Christiano-Boyle joined Princeton Montessori in 2014 and currently leads the management and coordination of all student and faculty services for the school.

Jennifer's work includes supporting teachers in obtaining resources needed to meet the needs of students as well as being a liaison for Dr. Noble's team and other service providers. She also administers reading screenings for all students in Kindergarten through 8th grade and is looking forward to maintaining a connection with all students.

Outside of the classroom, Jennifer enjoys reading, hiking, running, and visiting the beach. She loves to see and experience the world around her, and she aspires to travel the globe.

Jennifer is a doctoral candidate for an Ed.D. in Teacher Leadership through Rutgers University. She earned a Masters in the Art of Teaching & a BS in Early Childhood Education & Psychology from The College of New Jersey. She is certified by the state of New Jersey to teach Early Childhood (P-3), Elementary Education (K-5), and Students with Disabilities. Jennifer also holds an American Montessori Society credential in Elementary I through the Princeton Center for Teacher Education (PCTE), NJ.

Director of Finance and Administration

Betty M. Chin

Betty Chin joined Princeton Montessori School in 2022 and is currently responsible for overseeing all aspects of the business, finance and human resource needs of the Society, as well as overseeing the school’s physical infrastructure and maintenance.

Betty has extensive knowledge working for non-profits and expertise in accounting, finance, and business administration. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Public Accountancy from Baruch College, CUNY and stays up to date with the latest trends and technologies in accounting and business administration.

Betty and her husband are proud parents to two lovely daughters. She enjoys walks, cookouts, and spending time with her family and friends. In her downtime, Betty enjoys reading, taking in nature, and doing craft projects.

She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Public Accounting from Baruch College, CUNY, and stays up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in accounting and business administration.

Business Associate

Bushra Chohan

Bushra Chohan joined Princeton Montessori School in 2022 as a Business Associate.

Bushra brings experience in purchasing and accounting. She works with the business office and is responsible for supporting the Finance Director with all business office functions. She handles the accounts payable, accounts receivable, and purchasing for the organization, along with other business office responsibilities.

In her free time, she likes to paint, exercise, go hiking, and spend time with her family.

She has an Associate's Degree in Accounting/Business Administration from Montgomery Community College.

Administrative Assistant

Sonya Cotton

Sonya Cotton joined Princeton Montessori School in 2022 as an Administrative Assistant.

Sonya brings her love of community to her role in the administration at the Princeton Montessori School. She finds great satisfaction in helping systems run more smoothly, and helping people navigate those systems with as much ease as possible.

Sonya loves to make things with her hands. Over the years this has taken the form of drawing, painting, and ceramics, but her current love is fabric arts/quilting. She is also a musician who has released 7 albums in total. She loves spending time with her friends and family, and swimming in natural bodies of water.

Sonya holds a BA from Vassar College, major: Studio Art.

Montessori Coach

Lori Evans

Lori Evans joined Princeton Montessori School in 2022 and is a Montessori Coach for the Lower School.

Lori began her Montessori journey as a parent. Witnessing this unique educational philosophy through the development of her own children led her to pursue both her Infant/Toddler and Early Childhood Montessori credentials. Lori spent several years in both Toddler and Primary environments in a variety of roles; assistant, intern, lead teacher, and mentor. Lori treasures working with children during their early years of life to witness and support their tremendous growth and development. Lori is also passionate about supporting and collaborating with adults who are also on their own Montessori journey.

Lori enjoys reading, the outdoors, and spending time with her family. She and her husband have two children who attend universities in New England and two furry friends who keep them company at home! Lori spends a considerable amount of time continuing her own learning whether it be through reading, course work, or just embracing life’s daily lessons. Learning is for life!

Before beginning her Montessori journey, Lori spent a significant number of years in a corporate environment focusing on process improvement initiatives, implementation of best practices, and employee development. In addition to her Montessori credentials, she holds degrees in Accounting and Human Resources.

Student Registrar, Accounts Manager and Business Associate

Banu Eser

Banu Eser joined Princeton Montessori School in 1998 and serves as the student registrar, and is responsible for supporting all business office functions and admissions processing for the school and PCTE.

Banu is recognized as the go-to person in the Admissions and Business Office, where she brings a wealth of experience spanning admissions, technology, student data management, training, and efficient business processes. In addition to her administrative role, she leads the before-school program for Elementary and Middle School students. Banu takes great satisfaction in her work, which allows her to actively engage with the entire school community, including teachers, PCTE adult learners, parents, and students, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Banu has a passion for cooking and baking, especially traditional recipes from her native Turkey. She also enjoys exploring new places through her travels and treasures quality time spent with friends and family. Notably, her connection to the Princeton Montessori School is deeply personal, as her son is an alumnus who benefited from the Toddler-Middle School programs.

Human Resources Generalist

Teresa Gray-Piper

Teresa Gray-Piper joined Princeton Montessori School in 2023 as the Human Resources Generalist.

Receptionist

Kelly Glenfield

Kelly Glenfield previously worked at the Princeton Montessori School for over ten years and returned in 2023.

Kelly worked in the Toddler Program for many years. She loves the curiosity of the toddler mind and the enthusiasm they have to learn. She enjoys taking walks with the children and talking about nature, and creating new activities for them, especially with each changing season.

In her free time Kelly loves to travel, cook, attend concerts, take nature hikes, meditate, and spending time at the beach. She particularly enjoys spending time with family and friends and creating fun and educational projects for her young grandson.

Kelly holds an American Montessori Society credential in Infant/Toddler through the Princeton Center for Teacher Education (PCTE), and an Associate Degree of Applied Science (AAS) from Mercer County Community College.

Substitution Coordinator and Auxiliary Programs Coordinator

Suzanne Johnson

Suzanne Johnson previously worked at the Princeton Montessori School and returned in 2024.

Suzanne brings enthusiasm for the experience of learning and exploring. She loves watching students thrive in their studies and to find their passion.

Suzanne enjoys photography, music, and dancing. She is also a yoga teacher, certified in kids and in dance yoga and has developed a program called Wiggle Yoga

Suzanne attended the Greater Hartford Community College. Hartford, Ct. and received her Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education.
She also holds a Certificate in Women's Studies from Smith College.

Receptionist

Derry Light Wills

Derry Light Wills joined Princeton Montessori School in 1995 and currently maintains the front desk and provides administrative support to faculty and staff.

Prior to her current role, Derry taught music in the Elementary and Middle School programs, directed chorus for 5th-8th grades, and led the annual operetta and theater productions. She assisted in the Infant center and has substituted at all levels throughout the school.

In her leisure time, Derry likes to explore the natural world, bird-watch, read, and go to the theater and movies. She loves singing, especially when her daughters join her in impromptu duets and trios.

Derry’s professional work includes performing with a New York-based theater company, teaching voice and improvisation, and working in cabaret and voice-overs. She received a BA in Literature and Performing Arts from Sarah Lawrence College, NY, and has an MS in Ecology from Rutgers University. Derry earned Orff-Schulwerk certification for Levels I, II, and III at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

PCTE Programs Coordinator

Lisa Meisenbacher

Lisa L. Meisenbacher joined Princeton Montessori School in 2008 and is the PCTE Programs Coordinator, supporting PCTE and the adult learners.

She oversees the Admissions process, student records, Practicum visits and applying for final credentials. She instructs in the Toddler program and is an active field consultant. Lisa received a BA in Italian Literature from Rutgers University, NJ, and holds an American Montessori Society credential in Infant/Toddler through the Princeton Center Teacher Education (PCTE), NJ.
Director of PCTE

Dorothy Paul

Dorothy Paul joined Princeton Montessori School in 2018 and is responsible for leading the Princeton Center for Teacher Education (PCTE) as well as ensuring the School’s curriculum and program offerings remain in alignment with Montessori philosophy.

Dorothy began her Montessori career in 1987 here at PMonts before relocating to Florida where she taught for 23 as a Primary teacher in both private and public Montessori and worked with various teacher training programs. Most recently she has served as the Director of Education at the Duhovka Preschool in Prague, Czech Republic, and at the Amelia Island Montessori School in Florida. She developed the Duhovka Montessori Teacher Education Program (DMTEP), in Prague, Czech Republic. Her extensive experience as a teacher trainer has guided her work on pedagogy, curriculum, and program design.

Dorothy holds two Master’s degrees in Montessori Education from Barry University in Miami, Florida, at the Early Childhood and Elementary levels, and a BS in Nutrition from the University of Rhode Island. She holds two AMS Early Childhood credentials from the Seton Institute (1990) and from Barry University (2007) and an AMS Elementary I-II Credential from Barry University (2005). She has audited the Secondary Teacher Training Program and the Administrators Course from Houston Montessori Center and is a frequent presenter at the AMS and other Montessori conferences. She has recently served on the AMS Board of Directors and on various MACTE verification teams in the US and abroad.

Media Specialist

Mary Reuter-May

Mary Reuter-May joined Princeton Montessori School in 1990 and is currently responsible for creating print and online publications for PMS and PCTE, as well as maintaining the school’s advertising initiatives, promotional materials, and website updates.

Mary enjoys taking photos of the events and connecting with the daily happenings in the classrooms throughout the school. She supports the inner workings of the school administrative team as well as the teachers. Given her longevity at the school, Mary often provides a historical perspective of the school’s past activities and maintains the school’s digital archives.

Each of Mary’s three children attended Princeton Montessori School, starting in the Infant Center. When not in the office, Mary enjoys baking, drawing, painting, and spending time with her large extended family.

Mary received a BA in Communications Design from Kutztown University, PA.

Technology Associate

Javier Silva

Javier Silva joined Princeton Montessori School in 2021 and is currently the Technology Associate.

Javier provides daily technology support and training to faculty, staff, and students to ensure their needs are being met and issues are resolved in a timely manner. He is also in charge of the educational technology needs of the organization.

In his free time he loves to read, hike, play with his dog, practice yoga and create websites.

Javier holds a BA in Information Technology and Informatics from Rutgers University. He holds a minor in Sociology, and a minor in Digital Communication, Information, and Media (DCIM). He is certified in Cyber Security and plans on getting more certifications to incorporate what he learns into the school.

Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Katie Sullivan

Katie Sullivan joined Princeton Montessori School in 2016 and currently oversees the school's marketing and communications departments.

Katie is passionate about the Montessori philosophy and is honored to serve as the Marketing and Communications Coordinator at Princeton Montessori School. In addition to leading and guiding the school's high level marketing and communications strategy, she also manages multiple social media accounts for both Princeton Montessori and PCTE, writes and distributes press releases/articles, oversees print and digital ad placement, and coordinates website updates. Her background in sales and marketing spans across multiple industries, including entertainment and technology. Her corporate experience coupled with her current role as a school parent give her the perspective needed to promote the school to both internal and external audiences.

Outside of work, Katie loves to travel, read, exercise, and spend time with family and friends, including her husband and two children.

Katie graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Southern California with a B.A. in Public Relations and a minor in Cinema-Television.

Community Engagement Manager

Kristen VonWachenfeldt

Kristen VonWachenfeldt joined Princeton Montessori School in 2016 and is currently responsible for managing the school’s events, coordinating enrichment programs for students and providing administrative support to the entire school community.

Kristen brings experience in customer service, communications, performing arts and working with children to her role. Her attention to detail, strong organizational skills and professional demeanor make her an asset to the administrative team.

When not at the office, Kristen enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, baking, singing, and continuing to pursue her passion for theatre. She performs frequently in productions in the NJ/PA area. She is a House Parent on campus at The Lawrenceville School and an active volunteer in that community.

Kristen received a BFA in Music Theatre from Elon University, NC.

Facilities

Facilities Manager

Ralph Andujar

Ralph Andujar joined Princeton Montessori School in 2018 and is currently responsible for the supervision and management of the facility and also serves as the school liaison to businesses, contractors, and vendors.

Ralph has over 25 years experience in the field of facilities supervision and machine repair, as well as coordinating contractors, performing building maintenance and managing small teams.

When not working, Ralph enjoys spending time in the mountains with his wife, daughter, two sons and five grandchildren.

Facilities Team Member

Lawrence Meekins

Lawrence Meekins joined Princeton Montessori School in 2022 and assists with the daily operations of the facility and general maintenance projects.

Lawrence brings experience working in independent schools in athletics as a coach and has worked as a warehouse supervisor and, most recently, as a security officer. He studied criminal justice and holds a security officer license.

In his free time, Lawrence likes to exercise, coach basketball, and spend time with his family.

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What Parents Are Saying

The other day I came downstairs and my 4-year-old son was listening to 'Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart' on Alexa. He told me that Mozart's dad was named Leopold and his sister was Nannerl (it took him a second to remember her name and it sounded made up, so my husband and I googled it. Sure enough he was right). We asked what else he had been learning and he rattled off Antonio Lucio Vivaldi’s full name and referenced The Four Seasons. I think my jaw is still on the floor. It turns out that the Primary children have been learning about composers this fall and listening to their music. What incredible exposure for these young children!

Princeton Montessori is the very epitome of the principles of Maria Montessori. The School offers a nurturing, creative, academic, and well-rounded development for each child. As a parent, we cannot offer our daughter a more valuable first gift.

The faculty are, bar none, the absolute best. The teachers are very knowledge both about the Montessori philosophy and the best ways to work with children. I ask for their advice and insight for any issues we’re having at home, quite often. They’re also incredibly warm and nurturing with the children in a way I have not seen at any other school.

I’m struck by how much better the Montessori toddlers are at playing and working peacefully with their peers than toddlers in other nursery school programs. I credit the gifted PMonts teachers, and the Princeton Montessori educational approach, for how confident, happy, and collaborative toddlers in the PMonts program seem.

Our son is so proud of being a third-year Primary. He has attended this incredible school since he was one year old. He had absolutely wonderful Toddler teachers and flourished under their care. Now, he is a third-year Primary and we know he will be more than ready for Lower Elementary. Thank you to all the Teachers & Staff!

The school runs with one philosophy and so every faculty member and admin personnel share the same vision for the child. This consistency is unique in our area to Princeton Montessori. Combined with the integration of the teacher training program, we can proudly say that the spirit of Dr. Montessori’s principles permeates every aspect of our school. That’s what I value the most about our school!

Education is both a gift and a right. I feel the teachers at PMonts help our children to appreciate the value of their education. Understanding the value involves looking beyond school and appreciating how education is a tool that will allow them to explore challenging goals, to grow as individuals and most importantly, chase their dreams.

This is our first year at Princeton Montessori and my daughter is in the toddler program. It’s been nothing short of amazing. Teachers are phenomenal and my daughter has learned so much already!

I will never cease to be amazed at the capabilities of the young child. In the Montessori environment, the very youngest students show incredible independence and competence. At Princeton Montessori School the teachers truly help the children to “help me do it myself”.

When I think about my personal philosophy on education I can check all the boxes with regards to the education my daughter is receiving at Princeton Montessori. I feel the teachers motivate the students by focusing on appreciating the value of education and the diversities of peoples around the world while stressing and leveraging the power of the uniqueness in each individual student. Ultimately, the role of an educator is to shape a new generation that will create a safer and better world for the future.

Princeton Montessori School is a school that exceeds any expectations imaginable. The school follows each and every child on an individual basis and nourishes each child’s academic, social, and emotional needs. It is a school where teachers appreciate all unique qualities each child brings.

Our daughter loves being at school. She confidently reported that she was happy with the safety measures in place, and that she felt “safe” at school. This was HUGE.

Princeton Montessori School turned out to be the best investment ever. We made some sacrifices in our lifestyle in order to be able to afford sending both children all the way through 8th grade, but now we are proud to note that we have two capable, confident, well-mannered young adults who are a pleasure to be around and who continue to love to work hard in their studies.

EXCEPTIONAL is the carefully chosen word to describe Princeton Montessori School. Our family has been part of the PMonts community from elementary through middle school. If I could give every child a gift that gift would be for them to experience the joy of learning every single day at PMonts. The multi-age classes provide the advantage of older students leading younger students and younger students watching the wonderful examples of the older children. The children recognize the strengths of others as being positive and not competitive. Princeton Montessori is much more than academic college prep - it is life prep!

Our child previously attended a reputable public elementary school. During that time, she often complained that she was bored at school. I was concerned that the school's 'one-size-fits-all' education model was gradually dimming her thirst for knowledge. I wanted the flames of her engagement and curiosity to be fanned, not extinguished. She is now back at Princeton Montessori and I am happy to report that she is no longer bored. In fact, her inner flame has never been stronger!

Our daughter has been in the infant center for only six months, but we believe it has been the most transformative and influential time of her life. The Infant Center teachers planted a little seed in our daughter’s heart, and it has grown and blossomed into a beautiful, resilient flower with their warm love and care. ...We have observed her world expanding astronomically, filled with beautiful memories of her teachers and friends. We have been thoroughly impressed and constantly reassured by the quality of education and care the teachers provide.

We have always been thrilled with our PMonts experience, and this fall term has sent us through the roof. We are in awe of the tireless work of the faculty and administration, who have made possible such an inspiring in-person program. I have always been broadly grateful for the PMonts education my children have been so lucky to receive; this summer and fall, I felt grateful each and every day.

As a parent (and faculty member), Molly and I are beyond grateful for PMonts. Our children are SO happy here. I am more of a believer than ever before. Miles was fine at his public school but the difference is really clear - here, he is not just fine - he is totally thriving and so happy! I'm amazed.

"Princeton Montessori School students are open to diverse backgrounds, curious to learn new things, strong in their leadership and presentation skills, and confident. Thank you for providing an educational environment that encourages a child's total development. We know it is an incredible gift." -Middle School Parent

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