ELLICOTT CITY, MD — The Maryland Academy of Montessori Education (MDAME) is proud to announce the graduation of its inaugural Montessori Teacher Education Program, marking a major milestone in the continued growth of Montessori excellence across Children’s Manor & Children’s Magnet Montessori Schools (CMMS).
This spring, MDAME celebrates its first two graduates, Jiamin He and Reyna Avalos, who have completed the rigorous Early Childhood Montessori Teacher Education Program and earned their Montessori teaching credentials through MDAME’s accredited certification program. Beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, both graduates will join CMMS as full-time, accredited Montessori lead teachers.
Launched in 2025, the Maryland Academy of Montessori Education was established to provide a high-quality, accessible pathway for aspiring Montessori educators to earn professional certification while gaining real-world classroom experience within CMMS’s network of schools. The program combines intensive academic coursework, hands-on material practice, guided observation, and a year-long practicum under the mentorship of experienced Montessori educators. MDAME is affiliated with the American Montessori Society (AMS) and accredited by the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE), ensuring graduates meet the highest standards of Montessori teacher preparation.
“We are incredibly proud of our graduates for their hard work and commitment throughout this program,” said Gaye Novak, MDAME Program Director. “Their achievement represents exactly why MDAME was created, to cultivate passionate, highly qualified Montessori educators who will inspire the next generation of learners. Seeing our first graduates step into lead teaching roles within CMMS is a powerful reflection of what this program makes possible.”
For more than 30 years, CMMS has been committed to educational excellence and to preparing children for lifelong success through authentic Montessori education. Through MDAME, that mission now extends beyond students and families to the educators who shape the classroom experience every day.
“There are many favorite moments from this training, but one that I love the most was getting the one-on-one lessons on the different Montessori areas from Montessori-certified teachers. This program also gives you first-hand experience, as you will be with a certified Montessori lead teacher for one academic school year. I am so glad that I got this wonderful learning opportunity!” said Reyna, MDAME Class of 2026.
Applications for upcoming MDAME cohorts are now open for aspiring educators seeking Montessori certification and professional growth opportunities within a supportive, innovative learning community. Learn more at MDAME.edu.
About Maryland Academy of Montessori Education (MDAME)
The Maryland Academy of Montessori Education prepares future Montessori educators through comprehensive teacher training rooted in authentic Montessori philosophy and modern educational practice. MDAME is affiliated with the American Montessori Society (AMS), accredited by MACTE, and approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission.
About Children’s Manor & Children’s Magnet Montessori Schools
At Children’s Manor & Magnet Montessori Schools (CMMS), we focus on the development of the whole child. Since 1993, we have built a curriculum that balances your child’s social emotional, cognitive, physical, and academic development. Our mission is to prepare your child to excel in a global society by providing an academically rigorous, engaging, and supportive learning environment. We currently have 10 locations across Maryland.
For more information, visit www.childrensmagnet.com or email info@childrensmagnet.com.
