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Naperville Montessori
Naperville, IL 60564
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Welcome to Our School
Welcome to Naperville Montessori School in Naperville, IL. My name is Denise Testin and I have been the director of this school since 2006.
Naperville Montessori School opened in 1999 with a commitment to provide a true Montessori experience for our students. Our programs offer exploration and learning in math, language, science, history, geography, botany, practical life skills, sensorial and art.
We are pleased to offer year round programs for children two years old through kindergarten. Our school strongly encourages family involvement and we provide many opportunities throughout the year for families to participate in their child’s education.
Stop in to learn more about Naperville Montessori School. I look forward to meeting you!
Make. Do. Tinker. Think.
Our authentic Montessori experience is enhanced by a STEAM Studio.
Featuring hands-on learning stations for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math, the studio is available to Primary program students at least once a week.
- Science lab equipment will include items such as salt, vinegar, popsicle sticks, glue, clay, straws, etc., for children to perform simple experiments
- Technology learning experiences will be highlighted by tablets and educational apps
- Art studio activities will incorporate natural elements (such as leaves) and will feature various modes of art; for example, pendulum painting
Ask the school director for additional details.
Electives Offered
Elective programs allow Montessori students to learn by exploring creative outlets that will help them advance in the future—while giving your family more free time on evenings and weekends.
We offer Bollywood, chess, drama, art, martial arts, piano and soccer.
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Meet Our Staff
Denise Testin, Director
Years Experience: 18
Certifications: Montessori Education Centers Associated (MECA) Seton Montessori Teacher Training Center
I have been the director of our school since 2006. As a former directress, I bring both teaching experience and a creative and open management style to our school. It is a pleasure watching our students grow and become confident, self-disciplined and independent learners.
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Meet Our Staff
Sabera Electricwala, Directress
Years Experience: 11
Certifications: American Montessori Society
I was born and raised in Pakistan and moved to the United States in 1980. I have been working at Naperville Montessori School since 2006 and am so fortunate to see young toddlers learn and grow independently. In my spare time, I love to read, cook, and listen to music. During the vacation season, I enjoy traveling to different countries.
Meet Our Staff
Shailaja Santhanam, Directress
Years Experience: 15
Certifications: American Montessori Society
I first became acquainted with the Montessori philosophy when my youngest daughter joined the a toddler Montessori program. I was so delighted to see my little girl blossom in the rich environment that I wanted to learn more about this unique education. I enjoy being with children and believe that being part of a child’s development is truly its own reward.
Meet Our Staff
Carrie Thomey, Directress
Years Experience: 30
Certifications: American Montessori Society
I have been teaching at Naperville Montessori School since 2000. I truly enjoy helping children build their foundations for the future. My husband Dan and I have been married for 30 years and have a daughter. I enjoy collecting coins and reading books. I believe that “happiness does not come with things; it comes from work and pride and in what we do”.
Meet Our Staff
Asiya Ali, Directress
Years Experience: 25
Certifications: American Montessori Society
I was born and raised in Hyderabad, India. I completed most of my education in India and came to the United States in 1981. I have worked with children for over 25 years and really enjoy working with them every day. I have two children of my own.
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Meet Our Staff
Nagamani (Mani) Gantla, Directress
Years Experience: 15
Certifications: Montessori Paraprofessional
I started working at Naperville Montessori in 2003. My hobbies are cooking, listening to Indian music, and spending time with my family. I enjoy working with younger children because I love watching them grow and learn.
Meet Our Staff
Neelam Walia, Directress
Years Experience: 20
Certifications: North American Montessori Center Preschool/ Kindergarten Montessori Teaching Diploma, American Montessori Society
I have been teaching Montessori for 20 years. I have been happily married for twenty-nine years and have two sons who finished their undergraduate degrees at Northwestern University and are now attending the medical program at UIC. Both of them were part of the Montessori program, which is how I became involved in Montessori education.
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Meet Our Staff
Joan Schuler, Directress
Years Experience: 25
Certifications: American Montessori Society
I began as a Montessori parent when my children were babies. The education method appealed to me so I decided to begin my training. My family is everything to me! If you are around me long enough, I'll talk your ear off about my girls. My own interests are writing, traveling (I lived abroad when I was young), reading, music, and my garden.
Visit Us Today
Experience Montessori for yourself. Find your local school and plan a visit to find out if the authentic Montessori Method is right for your child.
Schedule a Tour or Request a CallLicense #: 19-022-160X-16-000
