Our Community
The faculty of MST is drawn from an international mix of talented people from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. The diversity of our teaching faculty mirrors the diversity of our international community of families. One thing we all have in common is our love of teaching and our commitment to nurturing the best in children through the Montessori method.
James Moore
Head of School
James joined MST’s faculty as a classroom assistant and PE & Music specialist in 2004. He quickly got involved in coordinating our enrichment and extra-curricular programmes, which became his main role for 3 years. He then became MST's Director of Operations, overseeing the general day-to-day operational running of the school for a further 7 years while maintaining regular contact with students through various enrichment programmes.
After a decade at the school, James became MST's Assistant Head of School in 2014: a role he held for 6 years before moving into his current position as Head of School in the summer of 2020.
In his current role, James oversees the growth and development of an expanding MST, while providing stability for both parents and staff. He remains accessible to parents and is a familiar face around the school for the entire community. James plays the piano and guitar and is an active vocalist who enjoys performing in the Tokyo area.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Administrators Certificate, 2021, Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies, Arizona, USA
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Elementary Diploma (6-12), 2020, Montessori Institute of San Diego, USA.
American Montessori Society (AMS), Montessori School Management, 2011, Center for Montessori Teacher Education, New York, USA.
Mathematics and Computer Science, B.Sc. 2001, University of Leeds, UK.
Gel Vicencio
Assistant Head of School
Gel grew up in Sydney, Australia, where she worked at various independent schools teaching English Literature and subjects from the IB curriculum, before joining MST in 2019. She has specialised qualifications in gifted education and experience working with students who have diverse learning needs. A long-time believer in the importance of progressive education, Gel loves helping students ignite their spark and discover the valuable contribution they have to make to the world. Her special interests - which she loves sharing with students - include social justice and human rights, environmentalism, and the power of the written word as a force for positive change.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Introduction to Adolescence Certificate, 2020, International Montessori Training Institute
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Administrators Certificate, 2019, Whole School Leadership Institute, Houston, USA
Graduate Certificate of Gifted Education, 2017, University of NSW, Australia
Master of International Education, 2012, University of Sydney, Australia
Graduate Diploma of Education, 2005, University of Technology, Sydney, Australia
BA(Hons) in Government & International Relations, English Literature, and French Literature, 2004, University of Sydney, Australia
Liz Masuzoe
Front Office Coordinator
Liz graduated from an international school in Okinawa and worked in a US financial firm in Tokyo for 7. As she spent some precious time at home bringing up her sons, she attended interpreting school and then worked as an interpreter/translator mainly for Japanese media companies for 5 years. Prior to joining MST in May 2019, she worked as an assistant manager in a pearl and jewelry retail company.
Maia Sameshima
Educational Affairs
Support Coordinator
Maia has been working at MST since 2013. Born and raised in Yokohama, she was a Montessori student and also an international school graduate. Maia has been one of the lead teachers for the Sunshine Sequoia class for 10 years before going on her maternity leave. She wanted to try out something new after 10 years of teaching and is currently working at the front office as a Support Coordinator and Administrative Assistant.
Maia loves to cook, read comics and binge-watch shows on Netflix in her free time, as well as spending time with her 2-year-old son.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Early Childhood Diploma (3-6), 2012, The Montessori Institute of Tokyo, Kanagawa, Japan
Bachelor of Liberal Arts, 2010, Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan
Sachio Arai
Operations & HR
Jake Redden
IT & Multimedia
Jake brings a wealth of experience as a former manager of a dedicated IT support and repair team in Scotland. Driven by his passion for education and creativity, he obtained his teaching certificate and embarked on a journey to bridge the gap between IT, creativity, and education. Always seeking out new opportunities, programs, and techniques, Jake strives to keep our school at the cutting edge of technology.
With a focus on supporting and training faculty members, Jake aims to provide continuous assistance in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of IT. Moreover, he aspires to develop an engaging curriculum that not only nurtures students' computing skills but also instills in them an appreciation for the safe and ethical use of technology.
By integrating his expertise in IT, creativity, and education, Jake endeavors to create an environment where innovation thrives and students are equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in the digital age.
Wind Edward Kim
Communications & Marketing Coordinator
EAL & Literacy
Karin Takaseki
Admissions & Marketing
Naoko Sugihara
Finance
Shoko Lowe
School Nurse
Megumi Black
School Nurse
Minery Inomata
Grove Reception
Naomi Fujii
Purchasing
Ludovica Molinari Momoi
Early Childhood Coordinator
Ludovica was born and raised in Italy, where she developed an interest in Early Childhood education from a young age. After completing her Master of Education, she earned her AMI 3–6 Diploma in 2012.
She has been part of MST since 2014, serving as a founding teacher of the Hazel Class and, more recently, as the Early Childhood Level Lead. She is now dedicated full-time to her role as Coordinator, supporting teachers and families in their daily work with the children.
Ludovica has also begun her journey as a Trainer in Training, deepening her understanding of the Montessori pedagogy to contribute to the wider Montessori community.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), 6-12 Orientation, 2024, Montessori Institute of Bangalore, Bangalore, India
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), 0-3 Orientation, 2025, Kuliyah Montessori, Selangor, Malaysia
Instructional Leadership Certificate, 2022, Harvard Graduate School of Education, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Administrators Certificate, 2021, Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies, Arizona, USA
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) 3-6 Diploma, 2012, The Montessori College, Dublin, Ireland
Educational Sciences MEd, 2007, University of Milan, Italy
Miho Hamaji
Olive Guide
Miho has worked at MST since 2006. Prior to that, she studied towards an Early Childhood qualification in Australia. She recently returned there to study towards her Montessori assistant's certification.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Early Childhood Diploma (3-6), 2018, The Montessori Institute of Tokyo, , Kanagawa-ken, Japan
Montessori Assistant Certificate, Australian Centre For Montessori Studies, 2014, Sydney, Australia
Kristin Fridjonsdottir
Olive Guide
Alongside my Montessori journey, I have worked internationally in the field of parenting education. I founded the online platform Respectful Mom, which now reaches more than 190,000 parents worldwide, and I have delivered over 250 parent workshops, keynotes, and coaching sessions across Iceland and Asia. During the pandemic, I created my first online course, Welcoming the Waves of Emotions – Setting Limits with Confidence and Calm, which has supported over 16,000 parents and been translated into five languages. Most recently, I launched a new workshop in Iceland focused on Highly Sensitive / Strong-Willed Children, a topic close to my heart.
I am also the author of the children’s book Sometimes I Cry, Sometimes I Laugh, which models respectful limit-setting and emotional awareness for children. A second book in the series will be released later this year.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of speaking at esteemed conferences in the field of child development and psychology, including the Raised Good Summit (alongside Dr. Shefali and Dr. Gabor Maté), the Global Montessori Conference, the Child Potential Summit, and the Parenting With Self-Compassion Summit. My work has also been recognized in publications such as Psychology Today, The Institute of Child Psychology, and Motherly.
At the heart of both my Montessori and parenting education work is a deep belief in meeting children with respect, trust, and connection. I am grateful for the opportunity to bring this passion into the MST classrooms and community.
Silvia Brunone
Olive Assistant Guide
Silvia is a certified NAMC Montessori Guide and recently graduated from a Master's course in Pedagogy.
She started working as a teacher in Tokyo since January 2019 and her motto is “Education is the most powerful weapon that can be used to change the world."
Silvia also loves drawing, reading, watching movies, travel and taking walks with her puppy Hotoke-chan.
NAMC Early Childhood (3-6) Montessori Diploma, 2019
Master in Pedagogy, 2024, Niccolò Cusano University, Rome, Italy
Dolly Solanki
Cedar Guide
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Casa dei Bambini (Early Childhood Diploma 3-6), 2015, The RTI Montessori Training Course, Mumbai, India
Bachelor of Commerce, 2014, Mumbai University, India
Toshiko Sakaue
Cedar Guide
Toshiko has lived in Tokyo, Hawaii, and the San Francisco Bay Area with her American husband and their two binational, bilingual, and bicultural sons. Like many families in this community, she first encountered Montessori philosophy as a parent while seeking to support her children’s well-being and development.
Wanting to deepen her understanding of Montessori philosophy and incorporate its principles into her own life, Toshiko pursued formal AMI training. Before joining MST, she worked in classroom support and school administration at bilingual Montessori schools in Berkeley, California.
Toshiko herself spent a year in California at age five—an experience that, viewed through a Montessori lens, has given her a personal appreciation for the Absorbent Mind’s remarkable capacity to take in language and culture from the environment. She later spent a year in Canberra, Australia, as an AFS exchange student. Before entering education, she worked for over 15 years in international news media and non-profit organizations.
She is grateful to be part of the MST community and looks forward to continuing to learn and grow alongside its children, families, and educators.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), 0-3 Diploma, 2026, Montessori Training Centre of Akiruno, Tokyo, Japan
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), 6-12 Assistant Certificate, 2026, Montessori Institute of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
Early Childhood Associate Teacher Certificate of Achievement, 2025, Santa Monica College, California, USA
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), 3-6 Diploma, 2023, Montessori Institute of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
B.A., Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan
Amy Maeda
Cedar Assistant Guide
Originally born and raised in Hong Kong, Amy worked in finance, accounting and marketing in California for 5 years after earning her degree. She moved to Japan in 2009 to start a new life and a family. As a breast cancer survivor, Amy actively volunteered and participated in the RFTC Run for the Cure. She has a long list of things that she loves doing, and reading, traveling, and laughing are among the top activities. Amy joined MST in October 2023 as a supporting teacher for the Sunshine classes. She loves being on the team, giving her a sense of belonging. Through MST, she hopes to help the young children build strong and positive mental health.
Bachelor of Business Administration, option in Business Law. California State University, Northridge
AMI Montessori 3–6 Orientation. Association Montessori Internationale
Mabel Sajonas
Sequoia Guide
With over two decades of experience as a certified Montessori educator for primary-level children, Mabel has been passionate about the application of the Montessori method across various aspects of life. She commenced her teaching career at a Montessori school in her native country, the Philippines, before making the courageous decision to relocate to Japan in pursuit of further professional development.
With great enthusiasm and a wealth of experience, she is poised to embark on a new journey and become a part of the MST community.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Early Childhood Diploma (3-6), 2003, Manila, Philippines
BA in English Language, University of the Philippines
Carolina Lopez
Sequoia Guide
Carolina brings over five years of experience in early childhood education and is passionate about creating a respectful, and child-centered environment where children can develop independence, confidence, and a love of learning.
She holds an AMI Primary Montessori Diploma from the Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies, as well as a Law Degree earned in 2009. Before working in Montessori education, Carolina worked as a freelance fashion designer. Her creative background continues to inspire her work in the classroom through handcrafted Montessori materials, art, sewing, and thoughtful environment design.
Beyond the classroom, Carolina enjoys gardening, exploring the city by bike, and spending time in nature. She brings her curiosity, creativity, and appreciation for the natural world into her work with children.
AMI Primary Montessori Diploma | Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies, 2020–2021
Law Degree | 2009, Universidad Rafael Belloso Chacín, Venezuela
Akane Katsube
Pine Guide
Akane performed on stage with a professional Acting Company for a number of years, prior to entering the education field. Before joining MST in 2010, she worked in international schools in Tokyo working with children from 18 months to 6 years old. While working at a Japanese Montessori school, she obtained her AMI Montessori Diploma.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Assistants to Infancy (0-3), 2016, The Montessori Training Centre of British Coloumbia, Vancouver, Canada.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Early Childhood Diploma (3-6) 2010, The Montessori Institute of Tokyo, Kanagawa, Japan
En Acting School, Japan. 1994, Japan
Arts & Science College, 1991, Temple University, Tokyo, Japan
Yulia Akyol
Pine Guide
Early Childhood Music
Yulia graduated from the Vaganova Academy in Saint-Petersburg in 2007. While studying, Yulia worked as a pianist in the Mariinsky Theater, and actively performed as a solo pianist, became a winner of Grand Prize Competition in Italy in 2005, and performed at Carnegie Hall, New York City, USA in 2006. She was invited to come and work in Japan as a pianist at the International Dance School in Tokyo in 2007. From that point on Yulia worked as a pianist in classical ballet and as a private piano teacher until 2018.
In 2018 her daughter was born. That is when Yulia became very interested in early childhood education, and discovered the Montessori method for herself. In 2021 she started her Master of Music in Music Education at the University of Florida. Yulia joined MST in April 2022 as a music and early childhood support teacher. She has received her AMI certificate (0-3) in 2022.
Master of Music in Music Education, 2023, University of Florida, USA
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), 0–3 Diploma, 2026,
Montessori Training Centre of Akiruno, Tokyo, JapanAssociation Montessori International (AMI)
Assistant to Infancy (0-3) Certificate, 2022, Washington Montessori Institute, USA
Bachelor of Art in Music (Concertmaster, Teacher, Chamber Ensemble Artist in the field, Instrumental Performance: Piano), 2007, State Vaganova Ballet Academy, St. Petersburg, Russia
The School of St. Petersburg Conservatory, Russia, 2002
Jansdei Bersalona
Banyan Guide
Jansdei was born in the Philippines and is a registered nurse with hospital experience. Before coming to MST, she was a homeroom teacher in an international Science school in Tokyo. She has a great interest in Montessori education. In her spare time, she enjoys singing with her daughter, reading, dancing, amongst other cultural activities.
AMI Montessori, 0-3 Orientation, 2022
Registered Nurse, 2006, Baguio City, Philippines
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, 2004, University of Northern Philippines, Philippines
Sakura Suzuki
Banyan Guide
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Assistants to Infancy Diploma (0-3), Montessori Training Centre of Akiruno, Akiruno, Japan
Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Language, Kansai University of Foreign Studies, Osaka, Japan
Severine Remedi
Early Childhood Learning Support
She graduated with her AMI Montessori 3–6 Guide Diploma in 2024, shortly before moving to Japan. Since joining the Montessori community here, her focus has been on creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where every child and family, regardless of their cultural or linguistic background, feel seen, supported, valued, and celebrated.
UFLI Foundations training, 2026, University of Florida Literacy Institute - hosted at St. Mary's International School, Tokyo, Japan
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) 3-6 Diploma, 2024, Institut Formation Maria Montessori - IFMM, Geneva, Switzerland
Master of Arts in Art History, 2022, University of Lausanne UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
Bachelor of Arts in Art History, History, English Language and Literature, 2018, University of Neuchatel UNINE, Neuchatel, Switzerland
English Grammar for Academic Purposes C1-C2, 2015, University of Neuchatel, Neuchatel, Switzerland
DELE (Diplomas de Español Como Lengua Extranjera), 2013, Instituto Cervantes, Bern, Switzerland
Dorothy Sasai
Early Childhood Support
Dorothy worked in a secretarial business role prior to relocating to Japan. Her passion for education arose after she had her own children, and she taught in a Japanese kindergarten until she first discovered MST in 2006. After 5 years supporting our Sunshine programmes, she continued to teach and tutor in a private capacity, before returning to MST again in 2018. During her free time, she enjoys travelling, dance aerobics, art and window shopping.
Certificate of Classroom Leadership by The Montessori Foundation, 2007, U.S.A (Online Study).
Diploma in Private Secretarial, 1981, Bedford Finishing College, affiliated with The Pitmans Examination, London
Sayuri Sonoda
Early Childhood Support
Sayuri spent her childhood in Utah where she was born. She worked as a flight attendant for fifteen years until the birth of her daughter, which gave rise to her interest in Montessori. Her experience of motherhood reinforced her belief in the Montessori approach; her decision to study it from a mother's perspective led to her becoming a teacher.
Association Montessori International (AMI) Elementary assistant (9-12) Diploma, 2019, Yokohama, Japan
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Assistants to Infancy (0-3), 2017 Ebina, Kanto Japan
Enako Tajima
Garden Teacher
My diverse experiences across cultures, classrooms, and teaching philosophies have ultimately brought me back to where it all began—Montessori. Today, my passion lies in creating environments that nurture children’s independence, curiosity, and confidence, just as Montessori did for me. I strive to build spaces where every child is seen, respected, and supported to grow at their own pace—just as I was. I believe in cultivating learning environments that empower children to embrace their own culture and identity. This belief continues to guide my work and purpose every day. In my spare time, I like crocheting, crafting, cooking and reading. I’m happy to be in an environment where I can engage with teachers and children from all around the world and contribute to peace.
B.A., Child Studies, Japan Women’s University 2018-23
Exchange Program, Education, Uppsala University, Sweden 2021-22
Association Montessori International (AMI), Early Childhood Diploma (3-6), 2025, Montessori Institute of Tokyo, Kanagawa-ken, Japan
Type-1 Kindergarten Teaching License of Japan (幼稚園教諭一種免許 )2023
Qualified Nursery Teacher Certified by the Education Board of Japan (保育士資格)2023
Miho Shomura
Early Childhood Support
Kelly Godsoe
Elementary Level Lead
Willow Guide
Kelly studied Japanese at Duke University in the USA, and upon graduating moved to Japan to teach in Japanese public schools with the JET Program. She then returned to the US to obtain her Master's degree. Since then Kelly has held numerous teaching roles at Japanese and International schools in Japan (including observing and doing her Montessori teaching practice at MST). She taught in both public and private Montessori schools in the USA and Canada before her bond with Japan brought her to MST in 2016.
Association Montessori International 12-18 Orientation, 2024, Train Montessori
Instructional Leadership Certificate, 2022, Harvard Graduate School of Education, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Administrators Certificate, 2021, Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies, Arizona, USA
Public School Licensure, 2014, Washington D.C., USA
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Elementary Diploma (6-12), 2011, Montessori Institute of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Teaching Foreign Languages, M.A., 2004, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
Art History & Japanese, B.A., 2000, Duke University, Durham, USA
Koji Taniyama
Willow Guide
Koji has an academic background in education and experience in teaching, music, and language education. He has worked with learners of all ages, from infancy through university, including children and young adults from diverse multicultural and multilingual backgrounds in Japan and the United States.
Before becoming an educator, Koji worked as a musician in California. He later spent 16 years in San Francisco, where he taught Japanese, music, and guitar, and worked with bilingual educators and multicultural families.
Koji joined MST in 2016, where he teaches Japanese and music. He is a certified Voice Trainer and Child Psychology Counselor, and has training in Montessori, music, and language education.
Child Psychology Counselor qualification certified by the Japan Medical Psychological Therapy Association, 2026
Voice & Singing Coach / Voice Method Trainer Association-certified Voice Trainer, 2024, IPC VOICE STUDIO
Music Education for Teachers Specialization, 2023, Berklee University
6-12 Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, 2021, Ministry of Education - Japan
Association Montessori International 12-18 Orientation, 2021, Great Work Inc., Train Montessori
Montessori Model United Nations Teacher Coordinator Certificate, 2016, California
Montessori Fundamentals, 2016, Center for Guided Montessori Studies, Florida, USA
Elementary School English Teaching Certificate, 2015, Japan
Child Development Administrator Certification, 2014, City College of San Francisco, California, USA
State Early Childhood Development Teacher Permit, 2013, California, USA
Child Development Practitioner Certification, 2013, City College of San Francisco, California, USA
Manamaya Peterson
Willow Guide
Manamaya is excited to be here at MST. She is a Montessori alumna herself, attending a Montessori school from 1st to 8th grade. She comes here with a wide variety of interests including art, music, writing, dancing, hiking, drinking tea, traveling, and learning more about languages, and plants and animals, especially. Having just moved to Tokyo, she is looking forward to discovering new places to go and things to do. Manamaya just received her AMI (6-12) diploma this summer and is currently working towards a Masters in Education. She hopes to graduate next year!
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Elementary (6-12) Diploma, 2024, Montessori Northwest, Spokane, Washington, USA
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), AMI 3-6 Orientation Certificate, Montessori Northwest, Portland, Oregon, USA
Bachelor of Art in Linguisitics, 2019, Reed College, Portland, Oregon, USA
Sofyani Tatipamula
Upper Elementary Assistant
Sofyani grew up in Tokyo, Japan, and attended Seisen International school, where she completed the IB Diploma. She then went to university in Canterbury, England, where she completed a joint honours degree in English Literature and Language and Linguistics. Driven by a desire to connect with children and a passion for alternative education models, and to help others, she has recently started working as an Upper Elementary Classroom Assistant at Willow.
Bachelor of Arts (Joint Honours) in English Literature & Language and Linguistics, University of Kent 2024.
Sanjana Soman
Maple Guide
Sanjana’s relationship with the Montessori pedagogy began at the age of three when she attended a Montessori school in Bangalore, India. Having experienced memorable non-traditional schooling systems as a child, Sanjana is passionate about sharing this love of learning with children around the world. After 5 years of teaching at non-Montessori schools, she then moved to an international Montessori school in Vietnam where she was the 6-12 Elementary teacher for next 3 years. Sanjana is very excited to be a part of the MST community from 2020
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Elementary Diploma (6-12), 2015, Navadisha Montessori Foundation, Chennai, India
Master of Design (Graphic Design), 2010, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
Visual Communication B.Sc, 2007, MOP Vaishnav College, Madras University, India
Yuki Hamaguchi
Maple Guide
AMI Montessori 12-18 Orientation, 2024, Cleveland Heights, Ohio, United States
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Elementary Diploma (6-12), 2021, Montessori Training Centre of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
Bachelor of Human Sciences in Human Behavior and Environment Sciences, 2013, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
Kari Frentzel
Oak Guide
Kari is from Boston but grew up in Tokyo and attended Honmura Elementary School in Minami Azabu. Her interest in education began when she worked with international exchange students from around the world in college. She previously worked in the elementary classroom of a Montessori school in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She holds a B.A. in International Relations from Tufts University and has also lived in Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Elementary Diploma (6-12), 2021, Montessori Center of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
Montessori Elementary Education, M.A., 2021, St. Catherine’s University, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
International Relations, B.A., 2016, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA
Makiko Shimada
Oak Guide
Upon graduating from Meiji University, Tokyo, Makiko traveled the world and taught Japanese to elementary students in different countries including Canada, where she lived until 2005, obtaining a Fine Arts Degree in that time. She returned to Japan with her Canadian husband and together they ran a language school in Akita for 10 years. She joined MST in 2016.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), 2019, Classroom Assistants Certificate Elementary (6-12)
Printmaking & Ceramics B.F.A. 2000, Emily Carr University of Art & Design, Vancouver, Canada
Dramaturgy B.A., 1990, Meiji University, Tokyo, Japan
Roberto Serizawa
Ginkgo Guide
Roberto brings an interdisciplinary perspective to the elementary classroom, blending AMI Montessori principles with a background in classical languages, visual arts, and law. Prior to moving to Tokyo, he spent four years serving as an Elementary Guide in Minneapolis, Minnesota. A key element of his classroom practice is integrating Philosophy for Children (P4C) within the Montessori environment, using structured open dialogue and inquiry to foster critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and active listening alongside independent work.
His path in education also includes teaching Latin language and literature as a university professor at Universidad Católica Santa Rosa and guiding visual storytelling as a photography instructor at Escuela Julio Vengoechea in Venezuela.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Elementary Diploma (6–12), 2022, Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies, Mesa, Arizona, USA
Law Degree, 2000, Universidad del Zulia, Venezuela
Philosophy for Children (P4C) Certificate, 2023, Montclair State University, New Jersey, USA
Fumika Kubo
Ginkgo Guide
Fumika studied Child Education at Otsuma Women’s University, and worked for 3 years as a Japanese and Music Teacher at Sai Sishya International School.
Rosie Said
Elementary Support
Garden Teacher
Rosie Said received an AMI Elementary 6-12 Certificate from the International Center for Montessori Studies Foundation in Bergamo, Italy in 2024. In 2013 graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a B.A. in Environmental Science and minor in Global Sustainability. She has spent time working in the farm to table industry, outdoor education, and special education. She hopes to bring her experiences and love for nature to the Montessori classroom.
Mu Li
Elementary Support
Mu got her bachelor’s and master's degrees in finance in the UK and the US before joining an investment
bank in Japan, where she spent 7 years working as a trader. Since then she has worked and studied in Hong Kong, New York, Beijing and London. Mu is passionate about screenwriting and became the co-founder of a film company.
After giving birth to her first child, Mu stumbled upon the Montessori philosophy and became genuinely interested in it. She finished her AMI 3-6 diploma training in London in 2020. In order to understand the full age spectrum of the Montessori journey that follows the child’s natural development, Mu completed the AMI 0-3, 6-12 and 12-18 training before joining MST.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Montessori International Diploma 3-6 level, Maria Montessori Institute, London, 2020
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Montessori International 12-18 Adolescent Introductory Workshop Certificate, Maria Montessori Institute, London, 2022
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Montessori International 6-12 Orientation Certificate, 2022
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Montessori International 0-3 Orientation Certificate, 2022
Master of Financial Engineering, 2007, University of California, Berkeley, USA
Bachelor of Accounting and Finance, 2005, University of Manchester, UK
Screenwriting and Producing, 2015, New York Film Academy, USA
Candy Wijeyewickrema
Elementary Learning Support
Originally from the Philippines, Candy has lived in Japan since 1999. She has a background in environmental technology and management and has worked as a senior research associate at the Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand. She likes to work with children and has held part-time positions in kindergartens and international schools in Tokyo, before joining MST in 2020. Candy is very interested in Montessori education. She has travelled to many countries with one of her most memorable visits being to Vatican City. Candy enjoys cooking, gardening, aerobics, and listening to music.
AMI Montessori 6–12 Orientation (AMI) Montessori 6–12 Orientation, 2021, Association Montessori Internationale
Diploma, 31st International Course for Advanced Research in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, UNESCO-Monbusho Program, 1996, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Japan
Master of Science in Environmental Technology and Management, 1992, Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok, Thailand.
Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Chemistry, 1987, Visayas State University, Leyte, Philippines
Naoko Kikkawa
Sustainability Lead
Early Childhood Mentor
Naoko has worked for the school since 1993. After gaining many years of experience she decided to learn about the theory behind it all and in March 2002 she completed her Montessori training at an AMI centre in Japan (The Montessori Institute of Tokyo). More recently, she completed a bachelor's in Child Psychology.
Child Psychology B.A., Tokyo Future University, 2013, Tokyo, Japan
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Early Childhood Diploma (3-6), 2002, The Montessori Institute of Tokyo, Kanagawa-ken, Japan.
Secretarial Diploma, 1983, Kanda Institute of Language, Tokyo, Japan
Elizabeth Ogiyama
Librarian
While raising her children in Tokyo, Elizabeth has led cub scout, girl scout, and boy scout troops. She has taught English to Japanese students as well as teaching in international schools, including running a mixed-age pre-school class for 4 years. In 2010 she joined MST’s Little People programme and has worked in the library since 2013. She enjoys community theatre and is involved in both adult and children’s productions.
Primary Years Programme Certification (International Baccalaureate), 2009
English B.A., 1987, Akron University, Ohio, USA
Wind Edward Kim
EAL & Literacy Coordinator
Communications & Marketing
Wind has almost 30 years of experience in teaching English as an additional language, creating curricula, writing and editing textbooks and designing programs for a major educational company. He also has decades of experience in writing and editing and helping students communicate more effectively, in the US, the UK and Japan.
After growing up in California, Wind moved to the Pacific Northwest and performed for several dance companies and collaborated in multimedia projects. During this time, he was a researcher studying child psychology. After a decade in the performing arts, he went to graduate school in the UK to study peace and conflict resolution, getting back to his roots in advocating for social justice and environmentalism. In his free time, Wind enjoys exploring new places with his family, instilling in his children a love of adventure, creativity and nature.
Research Methods, PgDip, 2004, University of Bradford, UK
Peace Studies, MA, 2003, University of Bradford, UK
Environmental Studies, and Psychology, BA, 1992, University of California at Santa Cruz, USA
Melanie Schalock
Learning Support Lead
Since 2009, Melanie has taught as a lead primary guide in three different AMI Montessori schools across three US states, has worked in support roles helping children with a wide range of neurodiverse needs, and is also a Montessori parent of 2 children. In addition to Montessori, she is a practitioner of the Orton-Gillingham Academy (OGA) approach for dyslexia and is working towards completion of the Associate Level certification.
Master of Education in Montessori- Primary Concentration, 2010, Loyola University, USA
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Primary (3-6) Diploma, 2009, Montessori Northwest, USA
Bachelor of Art in Music Composition and Japanese, 2004, Linfield University, USA
Orton-Gillingham Practitioner Curriculum Certification, Associate Level, A/OGA, 2023, Oregon Dyslexia Institute, USA
Handwriting without Tears- K-5th Grade Workshop, 2017, USA
Music Together Teacher Training, 2015, Music Center of the Northwest, USA
Suzuki Associate of the Americas, 2006, DFW WOW Suzuki Institute, USA
Tara McInerney
Art Specialist
Hiro Momoi
Music Specialist
Daisy Christina
Music Specialist
Daisy grew up in Indonesia, beginning piano lessons at the age of 4. She completed the Pre-Conservatory and Teacher's Diploma Programmes for classical piano performance at YPM Music School in Jakarta. Although she first pursued engineering, her passion for music led her to become a dedicated music educator. She has over 12 years of teaching music to students of all ages in Indonesia, the UK, Japan, and online. She was awarded a full scholarship to study Music Education at the University of York, UK, and later moved to Japan. Daisy’s student-centered approach nurtures a love for music through fun, interactive activities that encourage curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.
Master of Arts in Music Education: Instrumental and Vocal Teaching, 2023, University of York, UK
Bachelor of Engineering in Bioprocess Technology, 2017, University of Indonesia, Indonesia
Carlos Moreno Sanchez
PE and Activities Coordinator
Carlos has 16 years of experience as an educator and coach working with children of all ages. He was a high-level athlete and semi-professional football player in Spain, which shaped his approach to sports education. In addition to his study of Montessori sports activities, Carlos is extensively trained in personal training, aquatics, nutrition and first aid. And he is a certified football monitor, referee and coach by the Spanish Football Federation. He is passionate about fostering a positive, engaging, and inclusive environment for students.
Alejandro Muñoz
PE Assistant Teacher
Dalmiro Delle Chiaie
PE Assistant Teacher
Norma Cabugos
Custodian
Early Childhood Support
Norma has been a part of MST since 2005. In her spare time, Norma enjoys gardening as she loves being surrounded by nature. She also enjoys listening to music and cherishes her time with her friends and family. Her fondest memory is her time spent in Vancouver with her closest friend.
Chamae Titan
Custodian
Mercy Murakami
Custodian
Masamichi Kuroki
Transportation
Andrew Faustich
15-18 Adolescent Program Development Coordinator
Andrew believes in the potential for education to be transformative and empowering for all students. He developed and led international and U.S. education programs and taught students from 10 different countries. He also experienced the full breadth of public and private educational institutions, working with early childhood through undergraduate, graduate, and adult learners. All of his work is geared toward providing empowering, culturally sustaining, learner-centered, anti-bias, antiracist, and equitable education to students around the world.
AMI Adolescent Diploma
M.S.Ed in International Educational Development (University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education)
BA in Anthropology (University of Rochester)
Certificate from the Phillips Exeter Humanities Institute
Xavier Maréchal
Adolescent Community Coordinator
Eucalyptus Guide
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Certificate Orientation to Adolescent Studies (12-18), 2018, The Montessori Center for Work and Study, Rydet, Sweden
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Elementary Diploma (6-12), 2013, The Washington Montessori Institute, Columbia (MD), USA
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), Early Childhood Diploma (2.5-6), 2012, The Washington Montessori Institute, Columbia (MD), USA
Master in Education, 2012, Loyola University, Baltimore, USA
PhD in Physics, 1993, Joseph Fourier University, Grenoble, France
Jason Johnson
Eucalyptus Guide
Jason has been a Montessori Adolescent Guide since 2018, when he attended the orientation programme in Hershey, Ohio. He is a musician and a writer, passionate about the pursuit of creativity and its power in the classroom. He is joining MST in 2025, leaving his home shores of Aotearoa, to live in Tokyo with his wife and family after six years teaching in the adolescent programme at Wā Ora Montessori School in Wellington, New Zealand.
North American Montessori Association/Association Montessori International (NATMA/AMI) Orientation to Adolescent Studies Certificate, 2018, Ohio, USA
Certificate of Arts, University of Canterbury, 2025, Christchurch, New Zealand
Graduate Diploma of Teaching and Learning, Christchurch College of Education, 2005, Christchurch, New Zealand
Bachelor of Science, University of Canterbury, 2004, Christchurch, New Zealand
Sophie Gao
Eucalyptus Guide
Sophie taught at the university level for ten years before discovering Montessori while searching for an educational program for her daughter. What began as a personal journey soon grew into a deep professional passion. As her daughter grew, Sophie’s Montessori journey evolved alongside her, giving her the opportunity to work with children across the developmental span from 3 to 15 years old.
Through these experiences, Sophie developed a particular passion for adolescence. She truly believes that adolescents have tremendous potential to shape a better future and make a meaningful difference in our world. Her work is driven by a commitment to supporting young people as they develop independence, purpose, confidence, and a strong sense of responsibility toward their communities and the world around them.
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Adolescent Diploma (12–18), 2024 Montessori Centre for Work and Study, Rydet, Sweden
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Elementary Diploma (6–12), 2019 Montessori Institute of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Early Childhood Diploma (2.5–6), 2017, Montessori Training Center Northeast, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
Master’s Degree in Information Management, 2007, Wuhan University, China
Fuh-Meei Yu
Eucalyptus Learning Support