Our Staff

Dedicated to authentic Montessori education, the administration and staff at St. Peter's Montessori are highly trained, talented, and love working with children. We  believe that great teachers are our best asset.

Faculty

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MS. DIANE WOODYARD

Head of School

EDITH GONZALES

Eels (Elementary) Interim Guide

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MS. KATHY FRANKENSTEIN

Angelfish (Primary) Guide

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MS. BELEN INAL

Clownfish (Toddler) Guide

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MS. MELANIE AUSTIN

Angelfish Aide

My name is Melanie Austin, I was born and raised in Germany. I have been living in Arizona for over 15 years and absolutely love it here. I am passionate about making a positive impact in the classroom and have always had a deep love for helping children thrive. I am working toward my Master’s in Special Education with a focus on Applied Behavior Analysis at Arizona State University. My connection to St. Peter’s Montessori is especially meaningful because my daughter was once a student here in the toddler and primary classrooms. I am proud and excited to continue to be part of the community that not only supported my daughter’s growth but also fosters a nurturing and enriching environment for all children to explore, learn, and develop at their own pace.

MS. NAHOMY MEIJA

Angelfish Aide

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BERENICE VILLAFAN

Bettafish Aide

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MS. BRIANA MORENO

Bettafish Aide


MS. ROSA MODZELEWSKI

Clownfish Aide

MS. GARDINIA ORTEGA

Clownfish Aide

MS. ISABELLA MARTINEZ

Dory Aide

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MS. JOCELYN SCHULTZ

Aftercare Aide

MS. MANDA GEMPLER

Reading Specialist

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MR. TIM QUICK

Scholarships and Billing Manager

Tim Quick is a retired high school teacher; he taught business and computer subjects for over 30 years--mostly at Maryvale High School and Betty Fairfax High School in the Phoenix Union High School District. Tim received his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Arizona State University. He came to St. Peter’s in 2014 after more than 30 years at Church of the Epiphany in Tempe. Tim and his wife Debbie have three grown children.

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REV. DR. AMY E. JACOBER

Chaplain

Pastor Amy has been serving in ministry for nearly 25 years. She has an MDiv and PhD in Theology with particular interest in practical theology. Her interest in St. Peter's Montessori began with her three children attending beginning in 2012. She is invested in the faith formation and scriptural teaching from our youngest to most experienced students. Outside of chapel, she is a professor of Theology & Youth Ministry as well as multiple pastoral duties. She loves time with her family and can be found hiking, cooking, or playing board games around the family table.

If you think your child would thrive in a Montessori environment, give us a call or schedule a tour online. We would love for you to visit our school and learn more.

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