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growing strong roots
Infants
We begin accepting children at 3 months into our infant program. Infants spend their days interacting with their caregivers and peers, and exploring their environment with plenty of opportunities for unhindered movement. Ample time is provided for uninterrupted play, with a variety of open-ended materials. Children develop self-confidence at a young age by engaging in their caregiving routines and receiving respectful and personalized care from their caregivers. Infants explore our outdoor environment when the weather allows, and participate in our music curriculum on a daily basis.
Toddlers
Toddlers transition into the toddler class between 12 months and 18 months. Our toddlers spend their days engaging in a large variety of activities. Materials are rooted in the development of language, motor skills, sensorial exploration, and order. Children are encouraged to participate in classroom routines and gain independence through self-care. The toddler's days are enriched through the encouragement of their natural exploration and discovery. Elements from nature, messy art, and project based learning are all aspects of a child's day. Toilet learning is a large component of our curriculum. Our daily routine includes ample time for music, art, and outdoor play.
Preschool (Primary)
Children can start in our Primary classrooms between the age of 2.5 and 3 years old. Preschoolers engage in a specially designed environment with traditional Montessori materials that introduce the basic concepts of writing, reading, math, science, geography, and much more. Children participate in activities that build self-confidence and independence, as well as social skills and a love of learning. Practical life materials are provided so that children are encouraged to care for themselves and their environment. Preschool children are introduced to the wonderful world around them, and study all aspects of their environment by choosing topics that are engaging for them. Every preschooler's education is personalized and caters to their own unique personality.
Food Program
We are commited to providing nutritious foods that are minimally processed and connect children with how and where food is grown. All snacks and lunches provided by Peace Tree are whole foods that provide natural energy thorughout the day. Everyday, lunch includes a vegetarian entree, vegetable, fruit and milk. We also provide a morning and afternoon snack. All of the food served at Peace Tree is included in tuition and served family style.
Example Snack Menu: Example Lunch Menu:
CAREGIVERS:
Breanne
she/her
Founder & Director
​Breanne is co-owner of Peace Tree School, and a full-time administrator. She is a certified Montessori Infant and Toddler guide with 10 years of experience leading infant and toddler classrooms. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from University of Denver with an emphasis on family and child psychology. She received her Montessori Infant & Toddler Credential from the Montessori Education Center of the Rockies. Breanne’s interest in Magda Gerber and her educaring approach has led her to receive her Foundations I training with Resources for Infant Educarers (RIE). Breanne has worked in a director role since 2013 and has received her director's training certificate through the Oregon Association for the Education of Young Children (OEAYC). Breanne believes that above all, young children deserve to be respected and treated as individuals. She is passionate about educating teachers to their fullest potential and partnering with them to create well-rounded and joyful environments for the Peace Tree children. This passion has led her to join Heart and Hand Montessori Teacher Education Program as a teacher trainer. Breanne is a Portland native who enjoys spending time with her husband and children, who are students at Peace Tree School. Her and her family enjoy everything that the Portland outdoors has to offer, hiking, camping, gardening and boating on the river.
Sherrilyn
she/her
Founder & Director
​Sherrilyn is co-owner of Peace Tree School, and a full-time administrator. She has been a Montessori educator for 12 years in both toddler and primary environments, she received her Montessori training through the North American Montessori Center (NAMC). She also holds a Bachelors degree in Social Work and has worked as a family advocate for the Salvation Army Family Treatment Services. Sherrilyn enjoys creating a stimulating and enriching classroom for children and caregivers, and is always on the lookout for new ways to engage and guide the children as they grow. Sherrilyn enjoys spending time with her husband and their two dogs, she grew up in southern Oregon near the bast of Crater Lake and has a strong love for the beautiful Pacific Northwest. She loves animals, nature and her local community. She enjoys thrifting, art and exploring the many enticing things Portland has to offer. She plays music in a local band and loves to enrich the classrooms with songs and dancing.
Heron Room
Preschool
John
he/him
Lead Primary Guide
John is a certified Montessori guide, with an infant & toddler credential from North American Montessori Center and a Primary (Preschool) credential from the Center for Guided Montessori Studies. John has been at Peace Tree School since 2015. He is an experienced lead teacher and is passionate about guiding young children in all aspects of their growth and development. According to John, "I love how much joy, humor, energy, love and life children have. It is fulfilling to be an active and positive part of their well-being and development." John has a beautifully nurturing spirit and open authenticity that put children and parents instantly at ease. With a background in musical performance, specifically the trumpet, french horn, accordion, ukulele and vocals, he enjoys bringing music to the children on a daily basis. He enjoys every thing Portland has to offer and spends his weekends and evenings performing in his bands, attending music shows, as well as giving music lessons at Torchsong Studios. He also loves gardening, skateboarding and hanging out with his rabbit, Porgy.
Audrey
she/they
Primary Assistant
Audrey has many years of experience working with children in their homes as a babysitter and nanny. She is excited to be taking the next step in her career by working in a child care setting and is looking forward to learning the Montessori method. "Children are incredible!" Audrey exclaims when asked why she does this work. Originally from California, she is loving Portland for the seasons, the food and the people. On weekends, you can find Audrey hiking, dancing, painting and hanging out with her dog, Maggie and cat, Bug!
Raven Room
Preschool
Jackie
she/her
Lead Primary Guide
Jackie has her Master's degree in Montessori Education from Loyola University Maryland and studied at Montessori Northwest for her Montessori teaching credential. Jackie loves to craft and ride her bike and brings many aspects of her bright personality to the classroom. She was drawn to Montessori education after working in traditional classrooms because of how child-centered the philosophy is. Working with children is her passion, she says "I feel like working with children brings out my best self, I appreciate their outlook on life and try to remember to enjoy the little things like they do." Jackie is a dedicated lead guide and puts a lot of energy and thought into her environment and her approach with the children. Jackie has been with Peace Tree School since 2020. She cares deeply about her students and always does her best to meet their needs. Originally from California, Jackie enjoys riding her bike around Portland, admiring all of the plants and moss and appreciates how considerate everyone is.
James
he/him
Primary Assistant
James has many years experience caring for children and has aspirations to continue his studies with a focus in childhood education. He has a natural talent for entertaining and getting along with kids. James moved to Portland from Colorado and enjoys the friendly people here in Portland. He enjoys making art, making big meals, sewing, biking, and music.
Chickadee Room
Toddler
Sara
she/her
Lead Toddler Guide
Sara has years of experience caring for children and received her Infant & Toddler Montessori credential with Heart and Hand Montessori Teacher Education Program. Sara has been with Peace Tree School since 2016. She loves that every day is different and the bond she has with each child. In her own words, "I love children, I love watching them grow and learn new things everyday." Sara's attention to detail and mothering instincts are an huge asset in the toddler classroom. She always wants to learn more about respectful caregiving and the Montessori philosophy and that love of learning is passed on to her children. Sara is a Portland native who currently lives in Vancouver, although she loves visiting her hometown neighborhood of St. Johns. Sara loves coffee, finding new & local coffee shops, exploring new places and going on hikes.
Ashley
she/her
Toddler Assistant
Ashley's background is in behavioral therapy in school and home settings and has also been babysitting for many years. She has extensive experience working with children! In her own words, "Children are our future. We can create a better world by fostering love, kindness and respect for ourselves and others." Ashley aspires to be a lead Montessori guide someday! Having lived in many different places, Ashley now calls Portland her home. Her favorite part of this city is the artistry and the sense of community. You can find her biking, dancing, practicing yoga and playing with her dogs.
Ryan
she/her
Toddler Assistant
Ryan has worked with young children for several years in both preschool and home settings and joined the Peace Tree team in 2022. She has always found joy in working with kids, she loves that "everything is so new and exciting to them, its like magic!" Originally from South Carolina, Ryan is enjoying all of the amazing art experiences that Portland to offer as she is an artist and sculptor. She loves to bringing art & craft experiences to the children! On her down time, you can find Ryan hiking, thrifting, watching movies and hanging out with her pet rats, Ludo and Stevie.
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Starling Room
Toddler
Channing
he/him
Lead Toddler Guide
Channing received his bachelor's of science degree in Human Development and Family Science with a focus on Human Services from Oregon State University, he also minored in Women's studies. Channing received his Infant & Toddler Montessori credential with Heart and Hand Montessori Teacher Education Program. Channing has been with Peace Tree School since 2017. His motivation to work with children can be summed up by his own words, "Children are our future. I want to grow old in a world filled with adults who were taught loving kindness from early on. I am doing my part for each kid and for a better world. It's so much fun!" Channing's calm demeanor and emphasis on respectful caregiving make him an ideal toddler teacher. He is a Portland native who loves our home climate of grey skies and summer rain. Channing enjoys video games, playing the guitar, drawing and spending quality time with his brother.
Stacy
she/her
Toddler Assistant
Stacy has had many wonderful and varied experiences working with children including as a counselor for a Summer camp for young children, hosting birthday parties and specializing in children's entertainment. She is eager to settle into a child's-centered community and work with a group of children. In her own words, "Children deserve the same respect that adults do. The minds of children are amazing and their words matter. I want to make sure the children I work with know that!" Stacy is a Portland native and loves the rainy weather. Her interests include film making, attending conventions and creating costumes.
Owl Room
Infant
Kristin
she/her
Senior Lead Infant Guide
Kristin obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Portland State University. After graduating, Kristin explored her interest in working with children by volunteering in the NICU with infants and with Volunteers of America at the local Relief Nursery. She landed at Peace Tree as an infant caregiver and she says, "I want to give children what they need to develop at their own pace. They are truly unique and smart individuals and its honestly amazing what we can learn from them as adults." Kristin's calm and cheerful attitude make her a natural caregiver. Kristin is a Portland native and currently dwells here with her partner. During her free time, she enjoys hiking and exploring Portland's natural beauty, crafting and photography. Kristin will begin pursuing her Infant & Toddler Montessori Credential in September 2019 with Heart and Hand Montessori Teacher Education Program.
Azaria
she/her
Junior Lead Infant Guide
Azaria has a strong background in child care and other many wonderful pursuits. She has worked in the Montessori community for many years and led a toddler classroom in a traditional preschool setting before coming to Peace Tree. When asked why she has chosen to work with children she says, "Children need allies. We are collectively raising the next generation of leaders, artists and members of our community." Originally from Texas, Azaria has found her own community here in Portland and you can find her practicing self-care, participating in ecstatic dance, being outside, cooking and spending time with her daughter. Azaria also has training in Reiki and as a death doula. She is currently pursuing her Montessori certification at the infant & toddler level.
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SUPPORT STAFF
Coryn
she/they
Administration Assistant/Substitute Teacher
Coryn is the mother of two amazingly creative and hilarious Montessori children. She has a long time background caring for children throughout her life and loves the Montessori child-led approach. Coryn received her AA in American Sign Language and enjoys utilizing that with the students here at Peace Tree. She enjoys playing a supporting role everywhere she can lend a hand to help. At home, she is an experimental cook, novice gardener, and enjoys trying all different types of artistic expressions as often as adulthood will allow. While Coryn has dedicated many years to the stage, acting in numerous plays, set design and building, directing adults and children in productions/camps, she now makes time to play D&D with her friends and family to scratch that itch. She is thrilled to find and support her friends and family in such a loving community here at
Peace Tree School.
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Emily
she/her
Substitute Teacher
Emily has returned to Peace Tree after a brief haitus. Her experience with children as a coach, nanny, and with Peace Tree students has brought her (and us) much joy. She often in found in the play yard sharing songs with a gaggle of giggling kids. "I work with children for the beautiful & important moments that I get to witness. Watching & helping a child find themselves. Their voice. Their power, is the thing in my life that makes me feel the most grateful & proud. I am proud of my ability to 'zone in'. No matter what is going on around me, I always remember how important it is to give a child my undivided attention." Emily received her Bachelors in Science from University of Puget Sound and is very interested in pursuing her Masters in Montessori education. She loves spending time with friends, her cats Taco & Tommy, backpacking, knitting, and stand up comedy, especially at the Helium Club!
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Aidan
she/her
Substitute Teacher
Aidan has experience in daycare and nannying for children of all ages. She was raised in Portland and loves the close proximity to nature, the city's walkability, and all the different options for food and experiences this city has to offer. Currently a student at PSU, she strives to continue to learn new skills, languages, and gain a deeper understanding of different educational styles. She enjoys spending time with her cat, Gus, and energetic rescue dog, Lola, baking, cooking, recharging in nature, hiking, making art, ceramics/pottery, traveling and hopes to visit Italy as she is learning Italian. "I love sharing in kids excitement in learning and discovering new things, they remind me to appreciate the little things and stay in the present"
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Cameron
he/him
Substitute Teacher
Cameron received his Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of Portland. He has experience working with children at YMCA daycare facilities and leads music and voice lessons for youth. He prides himself on his ability to get on a child's level and understand them. "I enjoy fostering creativity, art, and music with everyone. I want to help give sturdy foundations to children so they can thrive and be who they want to be." He loves spending time with his partner and friends, long practice sessions writing new songs with his band, a good movie, cooking, and the underground/DIY music scene. He looks forward to getting more ink, applying for grad school, getting experience in multiple fields, and hopes to play a show at Star Theater this year.
Lauren
she/they
Substitute Teacher
Lauren comes to Peace Tree with many years experience working with children, from toddlers to teens in childcare and music instruction settings. She moved to Portland from Colorado and loves how green and gorgeous is it here. At CU Denver she obtained a BA in Music and completed the singer songwriter program. She is excited to deepen her understanding of Montessori and impact confidence levels in kids. "Children are so malleable to influence and I want to influence them in a way that empowers them to feel confident, capable, and able to look at the world as a world of endless creative possibilities!" Lauren can be found crocheting, journaling, meditating, exploring and enjoying nature, adventuring with her partner, songwriting and performing, and hopes to explore more of the coast.