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She is married and has two children who have both have attended VMA and grown within the Montessori environment. She has formed part of our school since we opened our doors here at Valley Montessori Academy. Today, she leads our Primary Casa 1 classroom. She enjoys teaching the children Spanish and all about her Mexican heritage. Carolina is certified by the American Montessori Society. She is also a Certified Positive Discipline Educator. Carolina began her education in child development at Bakersfield College. She has over 15 years of professional childcare and teaching experience. Before teaching here, she worked as an infant and preschool teacher. She also worked with elementary and middle school children, as an activity leader for The Boys and Girls Club. Carolina has worked with children of all ages, ranging from infants to middle school age. She is very passionate about the work she does and enjoys learning and working alongside the children. In her free time, she enjoys baking, taking pictures, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755184536057-1IF7HSD5R4BDD6Y1K1ZI/Click%252Bto%252Bread%252Bbio%252B%2525286%252529.png About - Gema Velador - Lead Teacher, Casa 2 Gema was born in Anaheim, California, and lived in Orange County her entire life until moving to Bakersfield in 2021. She holds associate degrees in Early Childhood Development and Business Administration and is currently completing her bachelor’s degree while enrolled in the Montessori Certification Program. Since joining VMA, she has fallen in love with the Montessori philosophy and envisions carrying this approach throughout her life. Gema loves the diversity of the school community. As a Hispanic bilingual in English and Spanish, she enjoys learning about different cultures and connecting with families from all backgrounds. She looks forward to each school day, finding joy in guiding children and being continually fascinated by their curiosity and growth. In her free time, Gema enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching sunsets, dancing to Spanish music, or relaxing while listening to her favorite songs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755118883796-9ABAP1EV5LFU2MMI177J/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%25283%2529.png About - Marissa Bolanos - Lead Teacher, Casa 3 Mrs. Marissa has been working with young children for over 11 years and has a true passion for early childhood education. After many wonderful years teaching in a traditional preschool setting, she became Montessori certified to further support children’s natural curiosity and love of learning. Mrs. Marissa also holds a certificate in Positive Discipline, which helps guide her approach to creating a respectful, caring, and joyful classroom community. She believes in nurturing the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally while encouraging independence and kindness every day. When not in the classroom, Mrs. Marissa enjoys spending time with her husband and children, exploring nature, reading. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755189293049-J51S5L0M3HXHVI95ECKR/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%25281%2529.png About - Marlyn Sanchez - Lead Teacher, Toddler 1 Mrs. Marlyn was born and raised in Los Angeles and moved to Bakersfield in 2021 with her husband and three dogs. Her passion for teaching began during her senior year of high school while assisting in a toddler classroom. She went on to complete her Early Childhood Education degree at Los Angeles Harbor College and was first introduced to the Montessori method in 2015. Since then, she has earned her Montessori certification through AMI (Association Montessori Internationale). Marlyn is fascinated by the power of observation and the importance of following the child as they develop an innate thirst for knowledge. With a nurturing spirit, she is deeply committed to helping children build self-esteem, explore new cultures, and discover the arts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1767715918896-BEC09DTZODN3KU3MC6LN/Click%252Bto%252Bread%252Bbio%252B%2525282%252529.png About - Catherine Velador - Lead Teacher, Toddler 2 Catherine was born in Long Beach, California, and lived in Orange County her entire life before moving to Bakersfield in 2021. She holds an associate degree in Child Development from Fullerton College and is a certified Montessori teacher through AMI (Association Montessori Internationale). Catherine has experience working with elementary and middle school-aged children but found her true passion in early childhood education. In 2018, she completed her education in Business Office Administration before shifting her career path to focus on working with young children. She treasures every opportunity to learn more about the Montessori method and to apply its principles in the classroom. In her free time, Catherine enjoys cooking, listening to music, sightseeing, and spending time with her family. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1761840257217-OPX7SBBCFIOLVA7R6UB7/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%25285%2529.png About - Liliana Ortega - Teaching Assistant, Casa 1 Liliana Ortega was born in Los Angeles, California, and raised for most of her life in Bakersfield, California. She is a family-oriented individual and a proud parent of three incredible children. Her passion for nurturing young minds began during her 10 years as a dedicated nanny, where she cared for children ranging in age from 1 to 10. During that time, she discovered her love for supporting each child’s unique needs and creating environments that inspire curiosity, independence, and a joy for learning. Liliana is currently pursuing her associate degree in Early Childhood Education, with coursework focused on child and adolescent development. She has completed 24 units in child development and gained valuable knowledge of the Montessori educational approach, which has deepened her appreciation for child-led, hands-on learning experiences. Following the completion of her associate degree, she plans to continue her education toward earning a bachelor’s degree to become a teacher. Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, Liliana enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, making crafts with her children, and traveling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1761676864306-S5HNY4KTZJ82FV5GSXYK/Ms.%2BMari%2BPhoto.png About - Mari Carpinteyro - Teaching Assistant, Casa 1 Ms. Mari joined Valley Montessori Academy in 2018 after twenty-four years as a stay-at-home mom. She raised her three wonderful children in the Montessori way and has always loved the philosophy, which ultimately led her to VMA. She feels fortunate and blessed to be teaching in a school that fosters a nurturing and loving environment where children can learn and grow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755188333051-3XTFKNLVHKIXTHX6VZ76/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio.png About - Diana Valencia - Teaching Assistant, Casa 1 Diana has lived in Bakersfield all her life. She holds a degree in Child Development and a Montessori Primary certification through AMS (American Montessori Society). Diana is passionate about helping children explore and discover their talents in a safe and stimulating environment. In her spare time, she enjoys listening to music, writing, playing a few video games, and spending time at the beach or in the mountains. Diana looks forward to continuing to grow at VMA and becoming a lead teacher. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1761842106816-I28V8H8W64YO06C1F672/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%25287%2529.png About - Ramandeep Kaur - Teaching Assistant, Casa 2 Ramandeep was born and raised in India, where she earned her associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in Electronics and Communication Engineering. She later earned a degree in Education in the United States. She is married and has a daughter, with whom she loves spending her free time. Ramandeep has a passion for lifelong learning and enjoys exploring new interests. She loves going to the beach, listening to music, browsing the internet, and engaging in arts and crafts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755291700238-62ZOKR67R5NKEMY1JDQG/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%25281%2529.png About - Nila Dasanyake - Teaching Assistant, Casa 2 Nila was born in Sri Lanka, where she earned her Montessori Teaching Certificate. She is happily married and has 3 daughters. She has more than 10 years of experience working in the education field. Working with children means the absolute world to her. In her spare time, she loves to meditate, cook, go to the beach with her family, and spend time in nature. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755293156991-1614N66GTXIP19INUYD4/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%25283%2529.png About - Celeste Salmeron - Teaching Assistant, Casa 3 Celeste was born and raised in Bakersfield. She studied at Bakersfield College and received an AA in Early Childhood Education and in Psychology. After learning about the Montessori method, she decided to incorporate it throughout the 5 years she was a babysitter. She has experience in taking care of children as young as 2 months old. Being the oldest of 6 siblings, and also a caretaker of her grandparents, is where she found that her love and calling is to help and care for others. Some of her favorite hobbies include, traveling with her family and friends, crafting, and trying new food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755294830319-SRRZTIC83HRRYUXS80RW/Click%252Bto%252Bread%252Bbio%252B%2525282%252529.png About - Briana Gomez - Teaching Assistant, Casa 3 Briana graduated from high school with a strong interest in working with children and began gaining classroom experience soon after. She has assisted students with their work, encouraged them to try their best, and supported teachers in creating a positive learning environment. Briana loves teaching because it allows her to guide and inspire others while also learning from them. Her time working in a Montessori setting has taught her patience and the importance of respecting each child’s individuality. Her passion for teaching stems from a genuine love for helping others grow, both academically and personally. Outside of work, Briana enjoys spending time with her loved ones, exploring new places, and engaging in hobbies that spark her creativity and joy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755185399544-VTXBQ1C1QDBOTJ26SOZT/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%25287%2529.png About - Shuhzen Lei - Teaching Assistant, Toddler 1 Lei was born and raised in China. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Human Resources in China and has also received her Associate’s degree in child development from Bakersfield College, she is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in teaching. She is married and has a small son who also received a Montessori education at VMA. Lei is a strong believer in the Montessori philosophy and the way it nurtures each child’s natural desire for knowledge, understanding, and respect. In her spare time, Lei loves to spend time with her family, do yoga, and walk by the ocean. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755120530426-VXNF5XAGWYBO5BI7IBEI/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%25285%2529.png About - Mariana Martinez - Teaching Assistant, Toddler 1 Mariana was born in Northridge, California, and spent most of her childhood there until her final year of elementary school, when she moved to Bakersfield. Her love for working with children began early; even as a child, she felt a strong urge to guide and assist those younger than herself. After graduating high school, Mariana briefly considered pursuing a degree in English due to her love for the subject, but ultimately chose the education route. She earned her Associate’s Degree from Bakersfield College and knew immediately that she wanted to begin working with young children, so she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies. In her free time, Mariana enjoys reading for pleasure, setting yearly reading goals and typically completing between 12 and 30 books a year. Her favorite season is autumn, which she loves for its colorful leaves and the holidays it brings. She shares her home with three beloved cats and dreams of one day writing a book—or perhaps even several. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1761849062360-0PLFN6JN6KZO7J8D4EK5/Click+to+read+bio+%288%29.png About - Jocelynn Sanchez - Teaching Assistant, Toddler 2 Jocelynn Sanchez was born and raised in Long Beach, California. She later moved to Bakersfield, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies with a minor in Art from California State University, Bakersfield. During her time in college, Jocelynn knew she wanted to work with children and advocate for them, though she was initially unsure of which path to take. This led her to volunteer at a non-profit school, where she gained valuable experience. In her third year of college, Jocelynn was introduced to the Montessori method and was immediately intrigued by its approach to helping children learn. From that moment, she knew she wanted to be part of this teaching philosophy. In her free time, Jocelynn enjoys spending time with her sisters, reading books, and trying new meals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1765393339862-NW2WLCDBVWCSIKWP6P5P/Click%252Bto%252Bread%252Bbio%252B%2525281%252529.png About - Giselle Robles - Teaching Assistant, Toddler 2 Giselle was raised in Bakersfield, CA. She has 4 years experience working in child care education. She was first introduced to the Montessori world through her sisters when they started implementing it in their homes. She has completed 12 units of child development and is grateful for the opportunity to continue to learn more through VMA. She loves spending time with her nieces and nephew, as well as going on family trips. In her spare time she loves reading, journaling, practicing self care, sightseeing and cruising around. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1761856523001-N5JD6TJ8GPO2N2LVFJ2C/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%25289%2529.png About - Amanda Corona - Extended Care Teacher Amanda was born and raised in Bakersfield, California. However, as a child she would travel a lot to Mexico with her family, which helped her develop confidence in both Spanish and English. Growing up in a large family, she always loved being around children and discovered her passion for education during her senior year of high school while tutoring 3rd graders in a dual language immersion program. Amanda is currently pursuing her education in Child Development and plans to further her education in the field of Psychology. Her goal is to one day become a Child therapist. She has been part of Valley Montessori Academy since 2024, where she has enjoyed supporting families and teachers while helping children reach their full potential. What Amanda loves most about VMA is its diversity and the way each child is guided at their own pace. She is inspired to help create a safe and nurturing environment where every child feels seen, supported, and encouraged to grow. In her free time, Amanda enjoys going to the gym, spending time outdoors, visiting coffee shops, practicing self-care, and making memories with her loved ones. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755797542271-LEGV4601SE4QC40YL0NB/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%25286%2529.png About - Kelly Mee - Garden Teacher Kelly grew up in Yosemite National Park, where her love for the outdoors started. She moved to Bakersfield in 2009 where she became a certified yoga instructor, she managed and taught at a studio for 8 years. She started teaching mommy and me yoga when she became a mom. She has taught in enrichment programs since 2021 and has been gardening most of her life. She has a passion for helping others be self sufficient and learning new ways with nature, while observing and exploring their environment. Kelly loves all things food, from gardening, to raising, and even cooking and canning her food. She has a culinary and instructing certificate from Living Light Culinary Institute in Fort Bragg. Kelly is single mom to her son, she homeschools him and has a small homestead. She loves being outdoors, traveling, trying new things and spending time with her son and animals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1761858454518-NJLPN71VOAP7UH1II73P/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%252810%2529.png About - Aidee Rebollar Gallegos - Substitute Teacher Aidee was born and raised in Bakersfield, California. As the oldest daughter in her family, she naturally took on a caretaker role from a young age. Her love for working with children grew through babysitting her younger siblings as well as children from her neighborhood. She attended California State University, Bakersfield, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies. It was during her time at CSUB that she was first introduced to the Montessori method, sparking a deeper interest in child development and education. In her spare time, Aidee enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends and practicing self-care by engaging in activities she loves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1761842191721-LO817C9C3D1O7KIGV0XN/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio.png About - Lourdes Montelongo - Custodian Lourdes has proudly served as the custodian for Valley Montessori Academy since the school was founded in 2015. Over the years, she's come to think of VMA as her second home. She takes great pride in keeping the classrooms, hallways, and outdoor spaces clean, safe, and welcoming for all the children and staff. She's a mother of three and a proud grandmother. In her free time, she enjoys staying active, working out, cooking for her family, and spending quality time with her granddaughter. She truly loves what she does and looks forward to coming to work each day, knowing that she plays a small part in helping create a positive environment for everyone at VMA. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1761842210337-68X4R93LQ5G0YOX0RQD1/Mr.%2BRon%2B%252725%2BPhoto.png About - Ronald Hoagland - Facilities Maintenance Worker Ronald was born and raised in Bakersfield, CA. He is happily married and a proud father of two children. In 2020, Ronald established his own maintenance business and has worked diligently to develop and grow it through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to quality. With a strong commitment to the Montessori philosophy of order and care, Ronald ensures that every classroom, outdoor space, and common area are well-maintained and ready for meaningful learning experiences. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family and traveling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755711273371-SL1S0PFN8TMLM6KZOR8E/Click+to+read+bio+%285%29.png About - Oxana Raimondo - Founder and Administrator Oxana Raimondo, founder of Valley Montessori Academy, brings over 10 years of child development and leadership experience and 20 years in economics and corporate management. Originally from Siberia, Russia, she earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Management and Finance before moving to Bakersfield in 2010, where she lives with her husband, Mark, and their son, Preston. Since opening VMA in 2015, Oxana has made it her mission to study and teach the importance of social-emotional awareness for both children and educators, weaving it into the Montessori school’s structure. A dedicated practitioner of Radiant Body Yoga, she has been teaching mindfulness and yoga at VMA since its founding and has deepened her practice through retreats in India and Costa Rica. She finds joy in traveling, mount climbing, preparing plant-based meals, and her daily morning yoga practice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1754941256494-67GYZAMU97IELJFCBXL1/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio.png About - Daniela Parra - Director Daniela was born in Los Angeles, California, but has lived in Bakersfield for most of her life. She holds degrees in Child and Adolescent Development and Sociology. As director, she oversees the school with dedication, love, and passion. She is deeply committed to creating a nurturing environment where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to learn, and where families feel welcomed and connected to the school community. When she’s not at work, Daniela loves all things self-care, traveling, and soaking up as much family time as she can. Her loved ones and adventures fuel her and keep her inspired every day. Her goal is to make a difference each day and live life to the absolute fullest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1755118526039-B5Z201JETOC0DXHGWTFH/Click%2Bto%2Bread%2Bbio%2B%25282%2529.png About - Yolanda Ortega - Office Assistant Yolanda Ortega was raised in Bakersfield, California as the middle child among eight siblings, a dynamic that helped her develop strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to collaborate effectively. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, driven by her passion for learning and a goal to make an impact in the financial field. Yolanda loves to travel and immerse herself in different cultures, which broadens her worldview and inspires her personal growth. 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https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025992606-AZQQ9B46SE4HZME1GHOP/Cristal+Garza+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Cristal Garza - Lead Teacher, Elementary (Copy) Cristal was raised in McFarland, a small farm town in central California. She has 18 years of experience in working with preschool and high school-aged children. In college, she studied Child Development and Sociology, which both became her major. In 2012, Cristal moved to Bakersfield with an opportunity to teach in a Montessori classroom where she worked for 3 years as a lead teacher before her journey at VMA. Cristal completed her Montessori Early Childhood Diploma Program in 2013 from North American Montessori Center. Soon after, enrolled at Montessori Teacher Academy in Dana Point, CA to receive her Montessori Credential for Montessori Early Childhood Education. For Cristal, it has been a special opportunity to work with Anna and Oxana full time on a beautiful journey from the beginning of Valley Montessori Academy and to opening our new facility. She is proud to be a part of the Montessori community as she served 9 years as a Lead Teacher and plans to teach for many more! Cristal enjoys photography, outdoor adventures and traveling the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025993250-H4V349VVMUU0ACKC26Q9/Carolina+Benitez+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Carolina Benitez - Lead Teacher, Casa 1 (Copy) Carolina was born in Bakersfield, CA. She is married and has a four-year-old daughter whom she loves to see learn and grow within the Montessori environment. She has formed part of our school since we opened our doors here at Valley Montessori Academy. Today, she leads our Primary Casa 1 classroom. She enjoys teaching the children Spanish and all about her Mexican heritage. Carolina is certified by the American Montessori Society. She is also a Certified Positive Discipline Educator. Carolina began her education in child development at Bakersfield College. She has thirteen years of professional childcare and teaching experience. Before teaching here, she worked as an infant and preschool teacher. She also worked with elementary and middle school children, as an activity leader for The Boys and Girls Club. Carolina has worked with children of all ages, ranging from infants to middle school age. She is very passionate about the work she does and enjoys learning and working alongside the children. In her free time, she enjoys baking, taking pictures, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025992385-C491Q6Y47ZFQJE484D2I/Lauren+Newton+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Lauren Newton - Lead Teacher, Casa 2 (Copy) Lauren was raised in Seal Beach, California and moved to Bakersfield in 2008. She attended CSUB where she received her bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies, her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Before coming to VMA, she taught at Bimat Elementary School for six years. She taught First Grade for two years and Kindergarten for four years. After discovering Maria Montessori’s Method, she fell in love with the philosophy and began her training to become a Montessori Teacher. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025991685-LH80J81TLQCEWIHHJJQV/Bianca+Morales+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Bianca Morales - Lead Teacher, Toddler 1 (Copy) Bianca Morales was raised in Los Angeles and moved to Bakersfield in 2008. As a young adult, Bianca cared for young children by babysitting. With 10 years of child care experience, she pursued her passion for child care by obtaining her AA in child development and psychology from Bakersfield College. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025991696-1W5CR8HAJYG1OYGZFNV3/Gilda+Gil+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Gilda Gil - Lead Teacher, Toddler 2 (Copy) Mrs. Gilda was raised in Los Angeles, California, and moved to Bakersfield in 2020 so she could raise her youngest in a small-town environment. Her youngest is currently learning in the Montessori environment and she is happy to see him blossom from it. She is married and has three children (6, 23, & 24). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025990879-OE3B450B17Z2SFURDH8M/Marissa+Menendez+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Marissa Menendez - Lead Teacher, Casa 3 (Copy) Marissa Menendez was born and raised in Bakersfield. She studied Child Development at Bakersfield College and has worked at a local preschool for the past 10 years. Marissa is experienced working with infants, toddlers, and school-aged children. She has been with her high school sweetheart for 21 years. In addition to having three wonderful kids together: Arianna 20, Isaiah 18, Meadow 7, they also adopted two cats and have lots of fish. In her free time, she loves reading, cooking, looking for stars, and making beautiful memories with her family. Marissa’s goal in working at Valley Montessori Academy is to be a positive guiding light for all children. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025990150-7SX8VD5C633TQ0WTCCMU/Mari+Carpinteyro+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Mari Carpinteyro - Assistant Teacher, Casa 1 (Copy) Ms. Mari joined Valley Montessori Academy in 2018 after twenty four years as a stay-at-home mom. She raised three wonderful children: twenty-four, twenty one and eighteen years old. She feels fortunate and blessed to be teaching in a school that promotes a nurturing and loving environment where children learn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025990110-DAGNRXH1L7W6XPCAPRIQ/Diana+Valencia+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Diana Valencia - Teaching Assistant, Casa 1 (Copy) Diana has lived in Bakersfield all of her life. Her goal is to get a degree in Child Development or Psychology. Diana is passionate about helping children in the best way possible to explore and discover their talents in a safe and stimulating environment. She likes listening to music, writing, and playing a few video games in her spare time. She also enjoys going to the beach and the mountains. Diana can’t wait to continue to learn the ways of VMA and learn from all of our lead teachers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025989155-AV8NKPRVIQG536YCPXO5/Gema+Velador+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Gema Velador - Assistant Teacher, Casa 2 (Copy) Gema was born in Anaheim, California. She lived in Orange County all her life until recently she moved to Bakersfield in 2021. She is currently enrolled in college where she is on the path to major in both Early Childhood Development and Business Administration. Since she began working at VMA, she fell in love with the Montessori teaching philosophy and sees herself carrying this method throughout her life. She loves the diversity of the school; she is Hispanic and can fluently speak both English and Spanish and she really enjoys learning about different cultures. She looks forward to each school day as it brings her joy to help guide children because they never fail to fascinate her. She can’t wait to see where this journey takes her as she hopes to keep learning more about Montessori. During her free time she likes to be with family/friends, watch sunsets, dance to Spanish music or sometimes she prefers to just relax while listening to music. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025988512-56540LAJNH3YG60NLP94/Shelise+Santore-Tovar+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Shelise Santore-Tovar - Assistant Teacher, Casa 2 (Copy) Mrs. Shelise began her teaching career 24 years ago at Kids Care Club in Temecula, providing an enrichment program, she later became a preschool teacher in a private school in Murrieta Ranch, where she taught until she moved to Bakersfield in 2012 to support her husband’s career. For the past four years, she taught Garden at Cesar Chavez Elementary for children grades 1st-6th, where she planned her own curriculum and ran the garden all by herself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025987655-9VGKUYNPNTAVZDN79O3H/Shuhzen+Lei+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Shuhzen Lei - Teaching Assistant, Toddler 1 (Copy) Lei was born and raised in China. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Human Resources in China and has also received her Associate’s degree in child development from Bakersfield College, she is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in teaching. She is married and has a small son who is receiving a Montessori education at VMA. Lei is a strong believer in the Montessori philosophy and the way it nurtures each child’s natural desire for knowledge, understanding, and respect. In her spare time, Lei loves to spend time with her family, do yoga, and walk by the ocean. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025987413-4634JNVGZJ0M12JQ81GN/Ramandeep+Kaur+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Ramandeep Kaur - Teaching Assistant - Toddler 1 (Copy) Ramandeep was born and raised in India. She earned her Associate’s and Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering from India. She has also completed 33 units in child development and now is pursuing her career in the teaching field. She is married and a mother to her daughter. When she has free time, Ramandeep likes to spend it with her daughter and family. She has a passion to learn new things in life. She loves going to the beach, listening to music, net surfing, art, and craft. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025986764-JU5BMADNW5S87RESY25J/Marlyn+Sanchez+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Marlyn Sanchez - Teaching Assistant, Toddler 2 (Copy) Mrs. Marlyn was born and raised in Los Angeles and moved to Bakersfield with her husband and three dogs in 2021. Her love for teaching began during her senior year of high school while assisting in a toddler classroom. She completed her Early Childhood Education units through Los Angeles Harbor College. Mrs. Marlyn was first introduced to Montessori’s method in 2015. Since then, she never stopped studying, researching and working with the Montessori Method. She is fascinated by the power of observation and following the child as they unravel an intense thirst for knowledge. With a nurturing spirit, she is greatly committed to her work with children, specifically helping them build high self-esteem, discovering new cultures, and exploring the arts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025986625-NAM56ODD8444FHK8IOMD/Catherine+Velador+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Catherine Velador - Teaching Assistant, Toddler 2 (Copy) Catherine was born in Long Beach, California. She lived in Orange County all her life and recently moved to Bakersfield in 2021. She is currently attending Fullerton College studying in the field of Early Childhood Development. Catherine previously worked with elementary and middle school-aged children for 3 years when she worked as an activity leader for The Boys and Girls Club. She changed her career path in 2018 when she finished her education in Business Office Administration. Catherine enjoys having the opportunity to work with young children. Catherine loves every opportunity to learn about the Montessori method. She takes Montessori assistant course and plans to attend AMS conference. In her free time, she likes cooking, listening to music, going sightseeing, and spending time with her family. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025985868-FB0PD3IZISIBA5YT8N08/Nila+Dasanyake+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Nila Dasanyake - Teaching Assistant, Casa 2 (Copy) Nila was born in Sri Lanka, where she earned her Montessori Teaching Certificate. She is happily married and has 3 daughters; a 12-year-old in middle school, a 14-year-old in high school, and a 17-year-old who is attending college at UC Santa Barbara. She has over 6 years of experience working in the education field. Working with children means the absolute world to her. In her spare time, she loves to meditate, cook, go to the beach with her family, and spend time in nature. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025985779-4KMEHQ2TDKDOS48YPT6K/Oxana+Raimondo+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Oxana Raimondo - Founder & Administrator (Copy) Oxana is originally from Russia, Siberia, where she received her degree in Management and Finances. She moved to California in 2010, learned English and welcomed her first VMA student in 2016. Oxana values an early introduction of mindfulness and yoga to young children. She has been practicing and teaching mindfulness techniques since the opening of VMA. In her free time, she enjoys spending time and traveling with her family and friends, yoga and healthy food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/671fb9b8f8ec0c42b0def6ef/1746025984954-FHDAM63UXFGR3JWUQMF4/Daniela+Parra+-+VMA.jpg About Archive - Daniela Parra - Office Manager (Copy) Daniela was born in Los Angeles, California but has lived in Bakersfield for most of her life. She is currently attending school majoring in Child and Adolescent Development and plans to pursue a graduate degree in Sociology. Her goal is to work with underserved children in future, and give back to the community. https://www.valleyma.com/news-events daily 0.75 2025-06-05 https://www.valleyma.com/extended-care-tuition daily 0.75 2025-06-27