Every classroom has a special spark that makes learning come to life. At The Woodlands Montessori in Texas, that spark shines bright in Bianca Lindley. The Toddler Montessori Guide is a 2025 Teacher of the Year Finalist, one of four to be recognized by Learning Care Group (LCG).
When asked what inspired her to become a teacher, Bianca’s story begins close to home. “The first and most important inspiration was my late mother, Angela,” she shares. “She was a teacher and passed on a deep love for education and learning. From an early age, she would tell me I was a natural-born teacher.” It wasn’t until her early thirties that Bianca fully embraced that calling, and she never looked back. “Every day I'm with the children, I feel my mother's abundance of love, care, and patience shining through me. With teaching, I found my vocation—not just a job,” she says.
Bianca’s second source of inspiration came when she discovered the Montessori philosophy. Reading The Absorbent Mind by Maria Montessori was a life-changing moment. “I had the most incredible ‘Aha!’ moment,” she explains. “Something inside me clicked. I knew this was how I wanted to teach, by respecting each child’s individuality and nurturing their independence.”
Bianca’s dedication recently earned her the honor of being named a Teacher of the Year Finalist, an achievement she accepts with gratitude. “It’s such an honor! I’m humbled and excited to represent my school and region. I feel very blessed to work in an organization that recognizes the hard work of its employees.”
Her classroom is a space filled with warmth, laughter, and tiny voices discovering their world. “I hope my students remember how much they were loved and valued,” she says. “Creating a classroom filled with happiness, care, and respect has always been my number one priority.”
When asked about her favorite part of the job, Bianca expressed a kind of passion that can't be taught. “It’s seeing the magic in the children's eyes as they learn something new and being there as their language skills erupt! I will always treasure the moment a child goes from single words to phrases to sentences and then full-blown stories. I love listening to them! I always want each child to feel heard.”
Looking ahead, Bianca remains committed to advocating for the importance of early childhood education. “Toddlers are often underestimated,” she says. “This age is foundational for personality development and a love for learning. I want to help educate parents on how to support their children both at home and in the classroom. After all, it takes a village.”
To new and aspiring teachers, Bianca offers some advice: “Never forget to take care of yourself, physically and emotionally. Teaching is the best job in the world, but it’s also demanding. As my Director, Caitlin Austria, always says, ‘Make sure and fill your cup!’ And she’s right. Whether it’s a quiet moment with coffee, a hot bath, or your favorite show, take time for you. Because you matter.”
In Bianca’s classroom, children thrive. And through her dedication, so does the future of Montessori education. Thank you, Bianca, for the magic you bring to every moment. We are proud to recognize you as a Teacher of the Year Finalist here at LCG!
The 2025 Company Teacher of the Year will be announced in October. Until then, we will spotlight each of the four finalists who are in the running for this prestigious award. Visit our website to learn more about LCG, our community of schools, enrollment options, or teaching opportunities.