Meet Melissa Guinn, a co-director of the Enrichment Class who has been working as a Montessori educator for the past 14 years. Prior to joining Horizon in 2004, Melissa worked at Willoughby Montessori School. She is a mother to three children: Two daughters ages 17 and 15, and a two-and-a-half-year-old son who will soon be joining the Horizon community.

How would you describe the Montessori experience?

Children learn respect for others, respect for the environment, and respect for themselves. Critical thinking, problem solving, a strong sense of order, and independence are just a few of the traits that stem from the Montessori experience.

What makes the Enrichment class stand out amongst other all-day pre schools?

Horizon’s relatively small size (three classrooms) makes it feel very much like a second home to me. The children share these feelings of family and community. The Enrichment class is our full day, full year program. In addition to providing an academic education, we care for children while parents work. Parents report that their children absorb the Enrichment class environment and bring it home: Children dress themselves independently, set the table for dinner, and/or help to pack lunches.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy being active and spending time with my family and friends.