Staff
LUZ MIGDALIA PONCE
Luz Migdalia Ponce holds a bachelor's degree in sociology, an AMI Primary Montessori degree (ages 3-6), an AMI degree in the Elementary level (ages 6-12) as well as in Assistance to Infancy (birth-3).
She has worked as a guide/teacher in all these levels in Montessori schools in Mexico City, Cleveland and San Antonio.
Ms. Ponce has been a trainer, educational consultant and has also directed two other schools in town. In 1996, she founded Montessori Schoolhouse and has been the director ever since.
The greatest sign of success for a teacher...is to be able to say, "The children are now working as if I did not exist."
-Maria Montessori
CARLOS PONCE
Carlos grew up as the son, nephew, cousin and godson of Montessori teachers.
He was also a Montessori child from the age of 18 months through the elementary years.
Starting as a teenager, Carlos assisted his mother during summer sessions and decided to further his studies in education by obtaining a degree in Primary Montessori Education and interning with several experienced teachers.
He has been lead teacher of the Primary since 2018.
Carlos is married to Michelle, his high school sweetheart and enjoys collecting animals and puttering with cars.
ROSELLA GARCIA
Rosella Garcia was born and raised in Italy. She attended Nursing School in Florence and graduated as a nurse in 1995. She moved to San Antonio in 1998 and is happily married with two wonderful children. She volunteered at her children's school for five years and enjoyed working with the children thoroughly. She later had an opportunity to work at the Montessori Schoolhouse as an Assistant Teacher in the Transition Class. Positively impressed with the Montessori method, she decided to study and received her certification through the North American Montessori Center in 2011. Since then, she has been part of our Montessori Schoolhouse family as a Guide Teacher in our Toddler Community (Nido & Transition Class).
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family. she loves outdoor activities, cooking and photography.
PADMI JAYASOORIYA
Padmi graduated from Mahamaya Girls' College in Kandy, Sri Lanka with an associate's degree in Accounting. Then, she worked as a banking assistant for four years in National Savings Bank in Sri Lanka. She changed her career in 2005 and wanted to work with children. She spent six years working with children aged 1-5 in Castle Hills Learning Center in San Antonio. She recently completed the Diploma in Montessori Education in Preschool/Kindergarten from North American Montessori Center.
Padmi is married and a mother of two beautiful children. She enjoys life in San Antonio and traveling as much as possible.
CHRISTINA ESPINOZA
My name is Christina, I was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. I am the assistant teacher in the Transition Class. I have worked at Montessori Schoolhouse for more than 11 years. I also worked in other childcare facilities prior to Montessori Schoolhouse. I am married and have 3 beautuful daughters who love and spend time with. In my free time I enjoy going to the beach and spend quality time with my family.
I love working with children and look forward to seeing them grow and prosper in life.
MELISSA CASTANEDA
My name is Melissa Castañeda, I was born in Laredo Texas but raised in Mexico. I graduated from the Laredo Community College with an Associates Degree in Science.
Later, I transferred & moved to San Antonio where I graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Spanish and a Minor in Interpretation. My original goal with that degree was to become a High School Teacher but while accomplishing some of my education I started working as a “floater” at the Montessori Schoolhouse and fell in love with the students and the environment. That lead me to my next goal: becoming an Elementary Teacher. I am currently taking my online trainings for a Texas Teaching Certificate in Elementary and Special Education. Furthermore, my education will not stop there and I would love to seek my Master’s Degree in Business Administration. On my free time I enjoy: going on hikes with my dog, spending time with my boyfriend, going back to Mexico & visiting my family, fostering dogs when we have long breaks from School, volunteering at the dog shelter, baking and of course watch my favorite tv show “New Girl”.
TRINI FERNANDEZ
I’m Trini Fernandez, I was born in Mexico, where I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree.
I moved to the United States and worked with a pediatric dentist for many years, so I always enjoy being around kids.
I like working in an environment where the children can grow, learn and promote their creativity and nurture their spirit.
I’ve been married to my high school sweetheart for 20 years and have 2 beautiful teenager daughters.
I enjoy reading, yoga, traveling, running and spending time with my rescue dog “Piccola”.
AMANDA ARIZOLA
My name is Amanda, Im a single mom of 5 beautiful children: Esperanza, Emily, Richelle, Juan and Estrela. Juan and Estrela are both with the Lord. My 3 daughters and I currently live in San Antonio. Our hometown is Hondo, Texas where I graduated from High School in 2004.
Motivated to become a preschool educator since I was fifteen, I started my journey as volunteer as a teacher aid in Sun Valley Elementary School. Shortly after, I started working in the child care field, where I find my passion and call.
I desire to continue learning and working in early childhood development. I love mexican food and BBQ. During the weekends, I enjoy spending outdoor time with my children, family and friends.
What I’m most excited about being an educator is getting to know the children, their families and being able to help them meet their needs and make a difference in our community!