The People Behind the Program
Our Faculty Are the Heart of Mount Dora Montessori
Every member of our team is trained to guide, not instruct — to observe, not direct. AMI-certified and deeply committed to the Montessori philosophy.
Founder & Executive Director
Merry Hadden
Merry founded the school in 1983 and is an internationally trained AMI educator, psychologist, and Montessori leader.
Head of School
Mia Crabill
Mia holds advanced Montessori credentials and brings extensive experience in early childhood education and AMI training.
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Our Approach to Teaching
Guides, Not Lecturers
In the Montessori tradition, the teacher's role is one of the most disciplined and observant in education. Our directresses are trained to introduce materials carefully, step back, and allow children to lead their own learning — intervening only when needed, and only in a way that supports the child's own effort.
"The essence of her duty is not to interrupt the child in his efforts."
— Dr. Maria Montessori, The Absorbent Mind
