“The teacher has two tasks: to lead the children to concentration and to help them in their development afterward.”
– Dr. Maria Montessori
It’s always a joy to return to the classroom, but there’s a special kind of excitement when we get to welcome new staff to our community. This year, four new educators are joining MMS (though one is returning in a new role). We can’t wait for you to get to know them, and we’re excited to see what the 2023-2024 school year holds!
Marilyn Jenkins
Primary Guide
Native Memphian Marilyn serves as MMS’ new primary guide. She received a bachelor’s degree in history with minors in political science and Spanish from Villanova University and recently completed Catechesis of the Good Shepherd training. You may remember Marilyn as one of our previous toddler caregivers!
Marilyn fell in love with the Montessori lifestyle and is excited to return home to the MMS community. In her free time, she enjoys running and reading. A fun fact about her is that she studied Russian history in college!
Sara Barton
Elementary Assistant
With seven years of early childhood education experience at the Memphis Jewish Community Center, Sara joins MMS as the new elementary assistant. She received early childhood education training from the Tennessee Department of Education. When she’s not on campus, she enjoys reading and rock climbing.
Eliana Mabe
Toddler Assistant
Eliana is one of MMS’ new toddler assistants. Originally from Colorado Springs, Colorado, she received a bachelor’s degree in media studies with minors in theater and religious studies from Rhodes College. She will also serve as MMS’ new theater guide! Eliana began directing and playwriting in 2020 and has extensive experience in children’s theater.
Eliana’s passion for Montessori education stemmed from her belief in Dr. Montessori’s teachings and holistic learning experience while encouraging bridge-building between people and community.
Eliana is a boba tea enthusiast and, fun fact, she won the Mini Miss Cinderella Colorado pageant when she was 10!
Rae Hughes
Toddler Assistant
Rae Hughes is one of MMS’ new toddler assistants. She graduated from the University of Memphis with a degree in language and linguistics and previously taught art in Horn Lake, Mississippi.
Rae discovered the Montessori Method while living in Lakeland, Florida, and fell in love; it fit perfectly with her personal educational philosophy. Outside of the learning environment, she enjoys art (especially using colored pencils), reading, live music and food of all kinds.