About | Casa Montessori

About Our Head of School/Owner

I have always had a deep love for children and a lifelong connection to Montessori education. Growing up as a Montessori child, with a mother who founded the Montessori School of La Jolla, I spent much of my childhood at the school, helping in classrooms, playing with the children, and living the Montessori philosophy. This early experience shaped my heart for education and the meaningful work that continues today.

After high school and college, I spent about 10 years working in the legal field. When my mother began preparing for retirement, I felt called to return to the passion that had always stayed with me. I returned to school to earn my Montessori Teacher and Administration Credentials, beginning a new chapter rooted in my love for children, learning, and teaching.

Throughout the years, I have balanced my dedication to education with my devotion to family. Alongside my husband, Mike, we raised our two daughters, who are now adults, while continuing to nurture my work in Montessori education and school administration.

After building a new school facility in La Jolla, I had the wonderful opportunity to expand to Carlsbad at a school already known as Casa Montessori de Carlsbad. After visiting the school and experiencing its warm, nurturing environment, I was excited to embrace this new adventure. With care, dedication, and a commitment to improvements over the years, I helped make this charming school in the heart of Carlsbad a special place where children can thrive.

During my free time, I enjoy spending time with our family and grandchildren, husband and our dog, walking along hiking trails, boating, traveling, gardening, and relaxing at the beach.

Shannon Bingham

Head of School

Maria Montessori

Learn more about Dr. Maria Montessori

Maria Montessori was born in Italy in 1870. She became the first woman to graduate from the University of Rome Medical School in 1896. In addition to being a doctor, Maria Montessori did research in psychiatric medicine and continued her education in philosophy, psychology and education. Dr. Montessori was appointed Professor at the University of Rome in 1904.

Dr. Montessori’s interest in the development of children started with disabled and mentally challenged children. Through this process of children in her care, her theories evolved. She saw amazing results with these children and thus began her philosophies. In 1906, Dr. Maria Montessori founded the first Casa de Bambini also known as a “Children’s House”.

Dr. Montessori discovered how young children naturally adapted and enjoyed learning. Dr. Maria Montessori continued her work and findings, which she shared throughout the United States, Europe and India. She founded training courses, an institute for research in Spain, and Montessori Training Centers around the world. Dr. Maria Montessori was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize three times.

About Our School Director

I am genuinely delighted to introduce myself as the Director of Casa Montessori de Carlsbad! It is a great privilege to be part of our wonderful school community, where I have the opportunity to support our students and their families. I am excited to share my experience, openness, and child-centered approach, all while embracing the cherished Montessori philosophy of education. I firmly believe that the relationships between families and the school are essential for your child's success. My natural affinity for children has guided me throughout my teaching journey.

My teaching career commenced in 2010 within the Montessori education framework, where I have had the incredible opportunity to nurture and inspire a love of learning in young children. Over the years, I have developed engaging and hands-on learning experiences that allow each child to explore their interests at their own pace, fostering their natural curiosity and creativity. Witnessing their growth and development has been a profoundly rewarding experience, as I strive to cultivate a supportive and enriching environment that empowers each child to thrive academically and socially.

I am genuinely excited about the wonderful collaboration and support we will be able to offer your child throughout their journey at Casa Montessori de Carlsbad. Our dedicated team is committed to creating a nurturing and stimulating environment that fosters each child's individual growth and learning.

We look forward to partnering with you to ensure that your child's educational experience is both enriching and enjoyable, emphasizing hands-on learning, creative exploration, and a strong sense of community. Together, we can create a foundation for your child's lifelong love of learning!

Jacky Lopez

Director

Philosophy & Principles

"Help me to do it myself." - Maria Montessori

The following are the most important Montessori philosophies and principles:

Environment richly prepared
Children progress at their own rate
Freedom of choice with responsibility
Self-teaching manipulative materials
Character and personality development
Building a positive self-image
Children responsible for themselves and the environment
Recognition of sensitive periods for learning
Sensory-based learning
Self-control through lessons in grace and courtesy
Control-of-error built into lessons
Utilizing mixed age groups for positive behavior consequences
Self-discipline through work
An interrelated curriculum
Stimulate left and right brain integration
Encourage movement necessary for neuro-muscular development
Individual as well as group interactions
Non-judgmental approach
Appreciation of all life
Inner peace and satisfaction through education