Kamuela Campus Faculty

Angeline Geldhof

Executive Director
Montessori allows children to develop at their own pace. It acknowledges that we, as human beings, have an internal guide that keeps us on our own unique developmental course.

I hold a BA in History, a Montessori Primary Teacher’s Credential from American Montessori Society, and a Montessori Elementary Teacher’s Credential from Association Montessori Internationale.

I started teaching in London, Ontario in 1991 in the upper elementary grades. I came to Hawai'i in 1993 to teach at Hawai'i Montessori Schools and have taught in all of the different programs at the school since then.

Every day is an adventure. Moments of glory occur every time one of our students shows me how proud they are of their work, every time a student spontaneously gives hugs, and every time they happily take my hand. As I watch them grow, I am thankful to have had a chance to walk a small way with each of them in their journey through life.

I enjoy reading, going to the beach, and being with my daughter Emmaline.

Karen Crowe

Lead Teacher, Honu Primary Class
As a young mother, I needed to care for my preschooler and this was when I discovered Montessori education. It was a time of great joy for my son and me as we discovered the philosophy of freedom based on intelligent choice, educating the whole child, and the logical consequences to our actions. Purposeful movement became our goal and has served us both well over the years. That was 1979. Many years later I continue to strive for the same.

After living and teaching in diverse places such as Charleston, SC; Boston, MA; Thailand; Prague, Czech Republic; and Costa Rica, I was ready to settle down and chose the Big Island as my home.

I love reading, gardening, travel and renovating my old plantation home.

Baki Wharton

Assistant Teacher, Honu Primary Class
The classroom environment and the method of following the child are my primary draws to Montessori. Children can choose what interests them and are allowed to focus without interruption. Over the years I have had the benefit of watching some very inspirational teachers.

I have undergone Montessori Training. I have been at Hawai'i Montessori since 2003. I love seeing the a child’s face light up when a challenge is mastered as well as finding out who they are. I enjoy reading, projects, and walking.

Lei-Ann Vasquez

Lead Teacher, Pueo Toddler Class
I believe in the Montessori method of following the child’s interests, and knowing that the children are learning to be independent thinkers and problem solvers. Having the same child from 15 months to 3 years of age allows me to observe their progress emotionally, socially, mentally, and physically.

I graduated from Parker School, here in Hawai'i. I attended Hawai'i CC and graduated with an AA in Liberal Arts and also attended University of Hawai'i and graduated with a BA in English.

I taught for 3 years at Waikoloa Elementary. I have been at Hawai'i Montessori since 2004. I’m loving every moment of being the Lead Toddler teacher!

I love just being with the children and learning new things about them everyday. I love creating jobs that they will enjoy and listening to their laughter and wonderful stories. I love being able to provide a safe, positive, and happy environment.

I enjoy reading, writing poetry, going to the movies, traveling, Broadway musicals and shows, and relaxing at the beach.

Kevi-Ann Andrade

Primary Teacher's Aide
I was drawn to the Montessori philosophy and method of education because it encourages the child to develop their own sense of independence. Having lived in Waimea my whole life, I passed Hawai‘i Montessori School each day on my way to school at Waimea Elementary School. When it was time for my son to go to school I knew that I wanted to send him to the school in the big white house.

Once my son started I wanted to learn more about the Montessori Method so I applied for a position at the school and have been with HMS since October 2010. I graduated from Honoka‘a High School and have been attending Early Childhood Education classes to further my ECE background. I am working to obtain my Child Development Associate Certification (CDA).

It is always amazing to me to see how the children grow and develop. I enjoy being around the students and watch them as they come to understand or discover something new. Everyday is an adventure.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my son and my family.

Jason Ulloa

Extended Day Teacher
I agree with the Montessori philosophy of “follow the child”. Our children are our future and a proper foundation will ensure a bright one. I have been at Hawai'i Montessori since 2008.

I graduated from Leilehua High School and vocational training at International Air Academy.

I have raised four children and have attended PATCH classes. I am still in the training process.

I am driven by the small miracle of choice. It is these choices that will change outcomes to a beneficial one by positive reinforcement, and seeing these encouraging reactions come to life is what makes me passionate about working with children.

Eliza Cahill

Teacher's Aide
As a child, I attended a Montessori school until high school and fully appreciate the philosophy. The education I received as a young child is the kind I would wish for all children. That is why I am here giving back to the youth of today.

I graduated from the California College of Ayurvedic medicine. I received an Ayurvedic Health Practitioner's degree and a Pancha Karm Specialist Degree, as well as a degree in Ayurvedic medicine.

I have 3 years experience working with infant to kindergarten aged children, as well as extensive training in children’s health. I have been with Hawai'i Montessori Schools since 2010.

What impresses me the most when working with children is watching how much, and how quickly, a child grows, and the feats he or she accomplishes in such a short time.

I play the cello and am passionate about building sustainably. I am working on a documentary about Ningay Nancy Sing, the author of “Conversations with Gaia". I love to sing and go on adventures!!

Kamuela Campus Office staff

Becky Watkins

Admissions Director & Office Manager
I believe that children intuitively know what they are ready to learn next. Hawai'i Montessori School supports this in an exemplary fashion. I was a Montessori child, and both of my children have Montessori backgrounds. Emphasis on natural – not electronic – toys and activities is very important to me as a parent.

I attended Seattle Central Community College, and received an Associates’ Degree in English with a focus on Journalism. I also took premed and biotechnology classes.

As the Office Manager, I bring 10 years of Office Management experience to Hawai'i Montessori Schools. I have an extensive background in small business support and a certificate in grant writing. I have been with Hawai‘I Montessori Schools since 2010.

I truly enjoy making things run smoothly and efficiently. I am passionate about giving children all of the opportunities possible to ensure that they develop into excellent young adults and caring community members.

I am an avid baker and gardener. I also enjoy horseback riding and reading or playing with my kids at the beach.