Montessori educators say that the world of the child is full of sights and sounds which first appear to be chaotic. From this chaos, children gradually create order and learn to distinguish among the impressions that assail their senses. Slowly but surely, they gain mastery of themselves and of their environment.
Diane Roberto
Directress of the Morning 3- to 6-year-old Class
Diane acquired her B.A. from Manhattanville College, a Master of Arts from John Carroll University, and her AMS Primary Diploma from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
“It is a joy and privilege to work with Horizon’s children and their incredibly supportive families- every day brings new wonders!”
Sarika Ballari
Directress of the Toddler Class
Sarika attended medical school in India, completed her Internal Medicine residency at Arnett Ogden Medical Center in Elmira, New York, and is training to be Montessori certified.
“It is a great joy working with toddlers, parents, and other teachers at Horizon. I love working together as a family which brings beautiful opportunities to help children learn, grow and explore their hidden skills. I am grateful to be part of the experience at Horizon.”
Melissa Guinn
Directress of the Enrichment Class
Melissa received her Associate’s Degree from Lakeland Community College and her Early Childhood Credential from Walsh University.
“I think of Montessori daily, granting myself the grace to grow as a teacher in unity with the other educators and families of Horizon.”
Dolores DeBlase
Assistant for the morning 3- to 6-year-old class.
Dolores received a B.A. from DePaul University, Chicago, and also attended the University of Denver and Saddleback Community College in California. She has tutored with Literacy Chicago, Reach Out and Read, and Partners in Education, among others.
“I am fortunate to have the opportunity to be part of the experience shared at Horizon. From the outset, I have felt the respect and consideration given each child each and every day. Being a participant with each child as he or she explores, discovers, learns, and grows mentally and socially is invaluable.”
Bernadette Crawford
Enrichment Class Assistant
Bernadette has a B.S. degree in Counseling, Education, and Applied Developmental Psychology. She has worked extensively in youth and family support programs and as an office and finance manager.
“One of my favorite things about the Montessori approach is the way it beautifully fosters a deep curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, uniquely in each child. Learning becomes genuinely enjoyable for each child as they develop skills and confidence in their own abilities. It’s an honor to watch each child blossom in their own journey!”
Meg Muzilla
Enrichment Class Assistant
Meg holds a degree in Gender/Sexuality Studies from Cleveland State University and is certified in CPR, First Aid, and Illness and Injury Prevention for infants, children, and adults through the American Red Cross. She is also a trained Lactation Health Coach.
“I have a deep appreciation for the Montessori philosophy and its respect for the whole child. I love that Horizon is a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe to explore, take risks, and grow at their own pace.”
Gabriella Spehar
Enrichment Class Assistant
Gabriella is studying for her B.A. in Communication Sciences at Cleveland State University, with the ultimate goal of an M.A. in speech pathology. She has worked as a nanny for Montessori-educated children since 2018, has volunteered at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, and has also worked in retail.
“Working at Horizon Montessori has been nothing but a wonderful experience. I’ve loved getting to know all of the amazing students and families. My favorite part is getting to work one-on-one with children and learning about their unique and wonderful personalities. It’s incredibly rewarding to see their confidence and curiosity grow each day.”
Ashley Hartman
Enrichment Class Assistant
Ashley trained at The Medical Massage School and The Center for Aromatherapy Research Education to become a licensed massage therapist, spiritual healer, coach and Ordained Reverend. Most recently, she worked in Medina with toddlers and preschoolers.
“I admire how Horizon encourages students to demonstrate independence, maturity and academic growth while giving them the support and freedom to explore their individuality.”
Gayle Anthony
Morning Office Manager
Gayle attended Chancellor University, where she studied to be a legal secretary. She has worked at Kaiser Permanente, Ahuja Medical Center, and Montefiore Nursing Home.
“The most rewarding and joyful part of my work at Horizon Montessori School is my interaction with the children, in an environment I always wanted to be part of. It is amazing to see the development of these young minds. I also love to hear their conversations with each other.. . . sometimes it is hard to believe they are as young as they are, with their expanding vocabulary. This is a testament to the nurturing environment of this great school.”
Mandy Gibson
Afternoon Office Manager
Mandy has over 20 years of office management/admin experience, ranging from healthcare, financial, tech/security and HR for local, corporate, and non-profit organizations. She attended the University of Phoenix and has been recognized with various administrative achievement awards for her high standard of professionalism, dedication, and teamwork. She is CPR/First Aid and AED certified.
“I love that Horizon Montessori School emphasizes hands-on learning, self-directed activities and mixed age classrooms. The children make us better humans. Their minds are so creative and they are all individually special and unique. They make working at Horizon a privilege, as well as working with Ms. Diane Roberto!”