With over 20 years of dedicated experience as a Montessori Guide, Leader, and Consultant, JoAnn has transformed the landscape of Montessori schools both in private settings and public charter systems.
Her journey began at The Way of the Shepherd Catholic Montessori School where she inspired Upper Elementary students with her passion for learning. After earning her M.A. in Montessori Education from St. Catherine University and obtaining American Montessori Society Credentials for Elementary I and II, JoAnn became an adjunct instructor in the Montessori Program at her alma mater while continuing to nurture young minds at WOS and then eventually Swan River Montessori Public Charter School. She mentored numerous student teachers both in her own environments as well as in other schools.
JoAnn’s expertise took her beyond Minnesota, as she ventured abroad to the University of Mary’s Rome Campus. There, she introduced college students to the rich history and methodology of Montessori education, immersing them in the very heart of Montessori’s origins by guiding them through Rome’s first Casa dei Bambini. Her work as an adjunct professor for the University of Mary provided new opportunities to connect with the International Montessori Community.
Upon returning to the States to the Upper Elementary environment at The Way of the Shepherd in 2016, JoAnn played a pivotal role in transitioning Christ the King Catholic School in Mandan, North Dakota, from traditional practices to a vibrant Catholic Montessori environment. Her field consulting work has reached numerous training centers nationwide, including the Montessori Education Center of the Rockies.
In 2017, in addition to guiding students in the Upper Elementary environment, consulting, and mentoring other new guides in the field, she became interim Head of Pedagogy at The Way of the Shepherd.
In 2020, JoAnn officially became the Head of School at The Way of the Shepherd, where she continues to inspire both students and educators. She has also pursued advanced training in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and AMI Adolescent Introduction Workshop.
When she’s not shaping the future of Montessori education, JoAnn enjoys life in East Bethel, Minnesota, with her husband, Tom, and their six Montessori educated children.