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
Sherrilyn
she/her
Founder & Director
Breanne and Sherrilyn are the co-owners of Peace Tree School and serve together in full-time administrative roles. With a shared foundation in Montessori philosophy and a strong, respectful partnership, they work closely to support the staff, students, and families who make up the Peace Tree community. Their leadership is rooted in attentiveness, collaboration, and a deep commitment to creating an enriching, child-centered environment.
Their journey began at a Montessori school in Portland, where they were both lead toddler teachers. Their classrooms had some shared spaces, and through that day-to-day connection, they quickly discovered how naturally they worked together. Their professional relationship grew into a friendship, and eventually, a shared vision for founding a school rooted in warmth, respect, and community.
On March 2, 2015, they leased a quirky house at the corner of Dekum and Grand and opened Peace Tree School with an inaugural class of 16 young children—4 infants and 12 toddlers—and three assistants who joined them in building a nurturing and peaceful classroom community. In March 2025, they proudly celebrated Peace Tree’s 10th anniversary, a decade of growth, joyful learning, and meaningful connection.
Breanne holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis on child and family studies from the University of Denver. She earned her Infant & Toddler Montessori Credential from the Montessori Education Center of the Rockies and completed Foundations I training with Resources for Infant Educarers (RIE®). Since 2010, she has worked in early childhood education and has served in a leadership role since 2013. She also supports Montessori teacher development as a teacher trainer with Heart and Hand Montessori Teacher Education Program.
Breanne is a Portland native and enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and two wonderful children- Peace Tree alumni who continue their Montessori journeys. Her family loves hiking, camping, gardening, and boating on the river. She is especially passionate about creating meaningful learning environments, mentoring educators, and partnering with staff to help every teacher feel confident, creative, and capable.
Sherrilyn holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and is a certified Montessori teacher through the North American Montessori Center (NAMC), with over 12 years of classroom experience. Her previous work as a family advocate with the Salvation Army Family Treatment Services continues to inform her holistic and compassionate approach to school leadership.
Originally from southern Oregon near Crater Lake, Sherrilyn brings a deep love for the Pacific Northwest to her work and daily life. Outside of school, she enjoys dancing, playing music, making art, thrifting, and spending time in nature. She’s also passionate about community and loves exploring Portland’s rich cultural offerings. At home, she dotes on her husband and their beloved animals, bringing the same care and affection to her personal life that she shares with the Peace Tree community. She brings creativity and joy into her role, often enriching the school through play, music, song, and movement.
Breanne and Sherrilyn work together to create a thoughtful and responsive Montessori environment where every child is treated as an individual and supported in their growth. Their commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning extends to both educators and families. With a shared vision, they provide a space where teachers, children, and families can flourish, and each child’s unique needs are met with care. At Peace Tree School, our dedicated team of guides nurtures a community where children are encouraged to explore, discover, and develop at their own pace. Through this approach, we foster a dynamic environment where curiosity is celebrated, and every child is empowered to reach their full potential.
Heron Room
Preschool
Pepper
she/her
Lead Primary Guide
Pepper is a devoted Montessori Lead Guide who brings thoughtfulness, creativity, and intention to her classroom. She earned her degree in Psychology with a minor in Education from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and went on to complete her Master’s in Montessori Education at the Southwest Institute of Montessori Studies in Arizona.
Her work with children began in 2017 through volunteering, and since then, she has cultivated a deep appreciation for the Montessori method and the unique ways young children grow and learn. Pepper is committed to creating an environment where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged to explore at their own pace- developing independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Pepper’s kind and gentle approach to teaching helps create a calm and nurturing space where children can thrive. She has a special ability to connect with her students in a way that makes them feel valued and heard, fostering an atmosphere of trust and respect. She finds daily inspiration in her students, often noting how much there is to learn from their openness, humor, and ability to be present. For Pepper, teaching is a two-way exchange full of curiosity, laughter, and mutual respect.
Originally from Fresno, California, Pepper enjoys expressing her creativity through art, playing board games with friends, and spending time in nature—especially hiking and paddleboarding. These interests bring a playful and imaginative energy to her work with children and help shape the joyful, engaging learning environment she builds in the classroom.
Pepper’s thoughtful guidance and genuine love for early childhood education make her a treasured part of the Peace Tree community.
Blanca
she/her
Assistant Teacher
Blanca brings a patient, observant presence to the Peace Tree Montessori preschool community. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of the Ozarks and offers both a strong academic foundation and a heartfelt commitment to early childhood education.
Recognized for her gentle spirit and unwavering calm, Blanca supports each child with genuine care and thoughtful attention. She values the Montessori approach for the way it honors children’s individuality and natural curiosity, and she takes joy in watching them grow into confident, capable learners at their own pace.
As a supportive and nurturing assistant, Blanca helps create a peaceful classroom environment where children feel safe, respected, and encouraged to explore.
Outside of the classroom, Blanca enjoys attending concerts, visiting museums, and immersing herself in creative expression. Her artistic interests—especially magazine collage and watercolor—give her a joyful outlet for experimentation and imagination, which often inspires her work with children.
Blanca’s blend of gentleness and creativity brings something truly special to our classroom.
Raven Room
Preschool
Jackie
she/her
Lead Primary Guide
Jackie is a dedicated and compassionate lead guide at Peace Tree Montessori, where she has been inspiring young learners since 2020. Originally from California, Jackie brings a calm, thoughtful presence to her classroom, drawing from a rich educational background that includes a Master’s degree in Montessori Education from Loyola University Maryland and a Montessori teaching credential from Montessori Northwest.
Before discovering Montessori, Jackie worked in traditional classrooms but was drawn to the child-centered nature of Montessori education, which aligned more closely with her values and vision for supporting young children. Her passion for working with children is clear in her words: "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 has a special talent for guiding her students in a way that honors their independence and encourages self-discovery. She creates a peaceful, intentional environment where children are free to figure things out for themselves, explore their interests, and grow into their own unique personalities. She gently supports children in navigating social interactions and encourages them to work through challenges together with empathy and understanding. Her approach is steady, respectful, and deeply attentive to each child’s individual needs.
Outside of the classroom, Jackie enjoys crafting, riding her bike, and exploring Portland’s natural beauty with her sweet dog, Snoopy. Whether hiking, camping, or admiring the city’s lush plant life, she finds joy in the same small wonders that children do, and values the thoughtful, connected community she’s found at Peace Tree School.
Anneka
they/them
Assistant Teacher
Anneka is a warm and creative guide who brings a unique perspective to the classroom. They hold a degree in English with a focus in Creative Writing and a minor in Art and Art History. With experience working with children since 2016, Anneka has worked in a variety of educational settings, including summer camps, nannying, and at both Waldorf and Goddard schools. Their diverse background gives them a well-rounded understanding of child development and education.
Originally from Colorado, Anneka finds working with children to be both fun and inspiring. They love seeing the world through a child's eyes and are excited by their creativity and fresh perspectives. Anneka's ability to connect with children and nurture their individual creativity makes them a joy to have in the classroom, and their creative approach to teaching has a huge impact on the students they work with.
Anneka’s future goals include publishing a book and creating their own tarot deck, passions they pursue outside of the classroom. They also enjoy writing, art, spending time in nature, and connecting with animals. Their creative spirit and love for the arts infuse their teaching style, making learning a dynamic and exciting experience for their students.
With a calm, thoughtful presence, Anneka is dedicated to helping children feel confident, inspired, and supported. Their creativity and approach to learning make a positive difference in the classroom, and they are excited to continue inspiring young minds while pursuing their own creative dreams.
Starling Room
Toddler
Channing
he/him
Lead Toddler Guide
Channing has been a valued part of the Peace Tree Montessori community since 2017, bringing a calm, steady presence to his work with toddlers. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Science with a focus on Human Services from Oregon State University, along with a minor in Women’s Studies. He received his Infant & Toddler Montessori credential through the Heart and Hand Montessori Teacher Education Program, where he further developed his thoughtful, respectful approach to early childhood education.
Channing’s motivation for working with young children is beautifully expressed in 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!”
With the goal of creating confident, independent little humans, Channing gently supports each child as they learn, helping them feel safe, heard, and encouraged. He fosters a peaceful classroom where toddlers are free to build meaningful relationships, problem-solve together, and explore new concepts at their own pace.
Music plays a special role in Channing’s classroom. He brings an intentional and creative energy to his work with children through daily moments of music—often singing and playing ukulele to teach, soothe, connect, or simply bring joy to the group. His deep love of music shines through in these harmonious, shared experiences, helping to create a rhythm to the day that is comforting, playful, and full of warmth.
A Portland native, Channing has a fondness for the familiar rhythm of grey skies and summer rain. In his free time, he enjoys listening to music, playing guitar, drawing, diving into video games, and spending meaningful time with his brother. His creativity and quiet care shine through in both his teaching and his everyday life.
Stacy
she/her
Toddler Assistant
Stacy brings joy, creativity, and a deep respect for children to her work at Peace Tree School, where she has been bringing laughter and fun into the class since 2022. A Portland native with a heart full of joy and playfulness, Stacy has spent many years working with children in a variety of settings—from being a beloved summer camp counselor to bringing princess magic to birthday parties as a children’s entertainer. Her wide-ranging experiences have helped shape her compassionate, attentive approach in the classroom.
Stacy’s goal is to make sure every child in her care feels truly loved and confident in themselves. She believes strongly in treating children with the same respect given to adults and in nurturing their ability to show that same respect to others. In her own words: "Children deserve the same respect that adults do, and they are capable of learning how to respect one another too. The minds of children are amazing and their words matter. I want to make sure the children I work with know that!"
Her thoughtful presence and belief in the power of children’s voices help create an environment where little ones feel empowered, seen, and celebrated just as they are.
When she’s not at Peace Tree, Stacy enjoys the peace of sunny Portland days, hoop dancing, collecting quirky trinkets, and expressing her creative side through cosplay.
Cole
he/him
Toddler Assistant
Cole is an experienced and compassionate teacher who believes deeply in the potential of every child. Guided by the belief that children are the future of our world, he is committed to nurturing kind, intelligent, and thoughtful individuals who will grow to make a positive impact.
Originally from Baltimore, Cole has spent most of his life in Portland and holds a BA in English from Portland State University. He values the city’s vibrant culture, welcoming community, and rich food scene, and feels at home among like-minded individuals who care deeply about growth and connection.
With a strong background in childcare, including many years as a trusted babysitter, Cole has developed a calm, empathetic approach to teaching. He prides himself on his ability to truly understand and connect with children, creating a space where they feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow.
In his free time, Cole enjoys writing, reading, hiking, and playing guitar. He finds peace in nature and often goes on walks to clear his mind and journal his thoughts. His love for storytelling and creative expression influence his teaching, making learning both engaging and meaningful.
Cole is excited to continue his journey in education, helping children develop into confident, caring individuals, and contributing to the vibrant community of Portland.
Finch Room
Toddler
Maddy
she/her
Lead Toddler Guide
Maddy brings a joyful and thoughtful presence to the toddler classroom at Peace Tree Montessori. Now in her third year of teaching young children, Maddy is leading her first toddler class with enthusiasm, compassion, and a deep respect for each child's individuality. She recently earned her Bachelor of Science in Child, Youth, and Family Studies from Portland State University, further grounding her practice in both developmental understanding and heartfelt care.
Maddy finds so much joy in witnessing children experience things for the very first time—from new words to new friendships—and is especially inspired by the way toddlers begin to build relationships and express their unique selves. Her greatest goal is to be the best guide she can be, creating a nurturing, healthy, and positive environment where children, families, and fellow staff members all feel supported.
With her calm demeanor and natural warmth, Maddy creates a space where toddlers feel safe, seen, and encouraged to explore the world around them with confidence and curiosity.
Outside the classroom, Maddy enjoys painting, pottery, reading, listening to music, and going on nature walks with her loved ones. At home, she spends her time with her sweet cat Fern and her lovable dog Percy.
Justin
he/him
Toddler Assistant
Originally from Hawai'i, Justin brings a warm and gentle presence to the Peace Tree community. He holds a BA in Psychology, which has deepened his understanding of child development and human connection. With a natural gift for creating calm and supportive environments, Justin excels in building soft, nurturing connections with toddlers, helping them feel safe, valued, and supported in their growth.
His thoughtful and patient approach fosters trust and comfort, allowing children to explore and develop at their own pace. Justin’s caring nature is a constant part of who he is, creating a steady, kind presence that encourages emotional security and independence in the young children he works with.
Outside of school, Justin enjoys spending quiet time at home, cooking, and discovering new places to explore in Portland at his own pace. He appreciates the peaceful moments life offers and is grateful to be part of a community where he can share his calm energy. Justin is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of kind, confident individuals.
Owl Room
Infant
Kristin
she/her
Lead Infant Guide
With a heart full of kindness and a soul rooted in gentle care, Kristin brings a quiet magic to the infant classroom at Peace Tree. A Portland native, Kristin has always been deeply connected to both the beauty of the natural world and the tender rhythms of early childhood. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Portland State University, where her interest in the emotional and developmental needs of young children began to blossom.
After college, Kristin followed her calling by volunteering in the NICU, where she provided comforting presence to the most delicate of lives, and with Volunteers of America at the local Relief Nursery, offering support to families and children in need. These early experiences deepened her dedication to nurturing the youngest members of our community with compassion, patience, and love.
Kristin joined Peace Tree in 2017 and her journey led her to become the Infant Lead Teacher after receiving her Infant & Toddler Montessori Credential from Heart and Hand Montessori Teacher Education Program in 2023. Her approach to caregiving is beautifully summed up in her own words: "I want to give children what they need to develop at their own pace. They are truly unique and smart individuals, and it’s honestly amazing what we can learn from them as adults."
In the classroom, Kristin’s calm presence and cheerful spirit create a sanctuary of warmth and trust. Her attentiveness to each child’s needs, her respectful approach to their development, and her nurturing gentleness make her a natural in every sense of the word. She sees the brilliance in every infant and honors their journey with quiet reverence and joy.
Outside the classroom, Kristin finds peace and inspiration in Portland’s lush landscapes, spending her time hiking local trails, crafting with care, and capturing the world through the lens of her camera. Just as she does with the children she cares for, Kristin notices and cherishes the smallest, most meaningful details in life.
Breanna
she/her
Infant Assistant
Breanna grew up in Virginia, where she also attended school and earned a degree in fashion design. Throughout her life, she’s had a long history of working with children of all ages, finding joy in their curiosity and creativity. After college, she spent time in Seoul, South Korea, teaching English as a second language. That experience deepened her appreciation for teaching and the meaningful connections it creates.
Breanna brings a gentle, attentive presence to the infants and toddlers she works with each day. Her warm and calm nature helps create a peaceful environment where children feel safe, supported, and free to explore the world around them.
In her free time, Breanna enjoys discovering new restaurants, thrifting for unique treasures, and practicing watercolor painting—a hobby that lets her unwind and express her creativity. She values the happiness that children bring into her life and hopes to reflect that joy back to them in every interaction.
SUPPORT STAFF
John
he/him
Music Teacher/Floating Sub Teacher
Each Tuesday, when he's not on tour, John returns to Peace Tree to share his love of music with our students. He brings new instruments to explore, leads engaging music lessons, introduces the stories of musicians, and dives into the rich history of various musical styles.
John has over nine years of experience in Montessori education and holds both Infant/Toddler and Early Childhood Montessori credentials. He spent 9 years at Peace Tree as a Lead Guide before shifting his focus to his lifelong passion: music.
A talented multi-instrumentalist who specializes in trumpet and accordion, John brings a joyful and dynamic energy to every musical encounter. He teaches at Backbeat Music Academy in Beaverton and offers private lessons in Northeast Portland.
John is also an active performer and a member of several bands, including Roselit Bone, Los Mal Hablados, Chervona, The Latin Rock Exchange, and The Collaborators. We’re so grateful to have him continue sharing his talents and musical spirit with our Peace Tree community.
Ryan
she/her
Floating Teacher
"Teacher Ry Ry!" the children happily call out! Ryan brings warmth, creativity, and a joyful presence to the classroom. She has worked with young children for several years in both preschool and home settings and joined the Peace Tree Montessori team in 2022.
Ryan has always found joy in working with children, sharing, “Everything is so new and exciting to them—it’s like magic!” Her approach is rooted in wonder, curiosity, and the belief that early childhood is a time to be nurtured with care and creativity.
Originally from South Carolina, Ryan is now enjoying all the incredible art experiences Portland has to offer. As an artist and sculptor herself, she loves sharing her passion with the children; bringing hands-on art and craft experiences into the classroom and encouraging self-expression through making.
In her downtime, Ryan enjoys crafting, hiking, thrifting, watching movies, and spending time with her sweet puppy, Bert, and her pet snails. Her creativity and love for life shine through in both her teaching and her everyday moments.
Dez
she/her
Floating Sub/Aftercare Teacher
Desiree ("Dez") brings five years of experience in education and a deep commitment to nurturing young learners. With a BA in Psychology and a minor in Education from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, she is passionate about supporting children during their most formative years. In her own words: “My passion is working with kids and being able to be a positive and caring adult as they are still absorbing so much.”
Originally from the island of Maui, Dez has found a special appreciation for Portland’s distinct seasons—especially the blooming flowers and cherry blossoms in spring. Her approach in the classroom is caring, grounded, and intentional, always centered on helping children feel supported and seen.
Dez's long-term goal is to become a public school principal, and she brings that leadership mindset into her work every day. Outside of school, she enjoys staying active through powerlifting and hopes to compete one day. She also loves relaxing with her cat, Manji, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally.
Addie
she/they
Floating Breaker/Sub Teacher
Addie has held a deep passion for working with youth for as long as they can remember. With a wide range of experience, from coaching circus arts to nannying, and supporting families experiencing homelessness, they bring a unique and compassionate perspective to caregiving and education.
They are committed to building dependable, nurturing relationships with children and families, always striving to support and uplift each person they work with. Addie finds great joy in being part of a child’s journey of learning and growth, approaching each day with empathy, curiosity, and respect for every child’s individuality.
Addie recently earned their Bachelor's degree in Child, Youth, and Family Studies from Portland State University. Outside the classroom, they proudly embrace their nerdy side; enjoying board games, comics, video games, and crafting in their free time.
Leah
she/they
Floating Substitute Teacher
Originally from the Bay Area and now three years into life in Portland, Leah brings curiosity, compassion, and a love for rainy days to the Montessori classroom. They are a senior at Lewis & Clark College majoring in Sociology, Anthropology, and French. Leah is deeply committed to understanding people and cultures, an outlook that shapes their gentle, thoughtful approach to teaching.
Leah finds joy in the daily surprises of working with children; their unfiltered honesty, boundless energy, and infectious laughter. Being part of their developmental journey is not only fulfilling, but aligns with Leah’s lifelong goal: to help people grow, connect, and thrive.
When not in the classroom or studying, Leah enjoys cozy moments with their cat, Coraline, baking, fibre arts, and exploring all the wonderful fun of Portland.
Claire
she/her
Floating Substitute Teacher
Born and raised in Portland, Claire has always felt a deep connection to the peace nature provides. She brings a calm, kind, sweetness to the classroom and enjoys observing as the students explore the world around them, "Its a privilege to help them learn and grow".
Claire's gentle and intentional presence reflects her long term goals to one day live on a farm and continue creating art of all forms. For now, she shares her Portland home with her cat, Penelope, and stays grounded by spending time in nature, painting, knitting, and imagining the life she’s slowly building toward.
Coryn
she/they
Administration Assistant/Floating Substitute Teacher
Coryn is the proud parent of two wonderfully creative and hilarious Montessori children. Since joining Peace Tree Montessori in 2020, they have brought warmth, flexibility, and a can-do spirit to the community. With many years of experience fostering the growth and development of children, Coryn deeply values the Montessori philosophy and the way it honors each child’s natural development, individuality, and sense of wonder.
They hold an Associate’s degree in American Sign Language and thoughtfully incorporate ASL to enrich communication with both students and colleagues.
Coryn thrives in a supportive role and finds fulfillment in being wherever they’re needed; whether jumping in to troubleshoot a repair, supporting a teacher, or offering a calm, playful presence to a child. Their behind-the-scenes contributions reflect a deep dedication to the well-being of both children and coworkers, and their heart for service shines through in all they do.
Their love of song adds a gentle, nurturing layer to their work with children, creating small moments of comfort and connection through music. Outside of school, Coryn is a member of the Threshold Choir, a group that offers songs of peace and presence to those at the threshold of life and death, an experience that speaks to their deep compassion and care.
Away from work, Coryn is an experimental cook, a novice gardener, and a constant student of neuroscience and psychology. They are also an enthusiastic explorer of all creative expression; dabbling in art, crafting, dancing, music, and any medium that sparks their curiosity. With decades of theater experience under their belt, from acting and set design to directing productions for both adults and children, Coryn now scratches that theatrical itch by playing Dungeons & Dragons with friends and family.