About us
The success of our school is the result of the quality of our program and the mature professional staff we choose, and the realization that all children deserve the greatest respect, loving care, and professional guidance in their development. This philosophy underlies everything we do at school. The task of the teacher in our classroom is more that of guide than that of instructor. This is why the teacher is normally called “directress”. His/her main function is to be a link between the child and the Prepared Environment, by means of which the child has the opportunity to develop his individual potentialities to the utmost.
Kianna Zaragoza – Director/Teacher Montessori Program and Infant/Toddler Program
Kianna knew she wanted to become a teacher since she was a little girl. She nannied in her early teens and later worked at a daycare. She graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in Elementary School Education. Kianna successfully mastered the Montessori Diploma in June 2020 and completed the approved Course of Study and Practical Training of the International Association of Progressive Montessori. When she is not working Kianna is spending time with her family or puppy.
Kianna knew she wanted to become a teacher since she was a little girl. She nannied in her early teens and later worked at a daycare. She graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in Elementary School Education. Kianna successfully mastered the Montessori Diploma in June 2020 and completed the approved Course of Study and Practical Training of the International Association of Progressive Montessori. When she is not working Kianna is spending time with her family or puppy.
Neda Khatami – Teacher Montessori Program
Neda has much passion for working with the early childhood age group. She imaginatively uses resources to help youngsters learn. She received her BOA In German Translation and has many years’ experience of working in information technology and human resource management fields. Neda loves artistic painting as a hobby. She is currently studying in child development program at the Saddleback College. Over the last years, she has been working for a non-profit organization called Children’s Hope International Literacy & Development (Children’s Hope) supporting the low-income children with limited resource and disabilities by providing them with health, education and other life essentials. She is also currently helping CHILD Organization as a part time volunteer. Neda is looking forward to joining the Montessori Training as Robin Hood inspired her very much. When not teaching Neda loves spending time with her family.
Neda has much passion for working with the early childhood age group. She imaginatively uses resources to help youngsters learn. She received her BOA In German Translation and has many years’ experience of working in information technology and human resource management fields. Neda loves artistic painting as a hobby. She is currently studying in child development program at the Saddleback College. Over the last years, she has been working for a non-profit organization called Children’s Hope International Literacy & Development (Children’s Hope) supporting the low-income children with limited resource and disabilities by providing them with health, education and other life essentials. She is also currently helping CHILD Organization as a part time volunteer. Neda is looking forward to joining the Montessori Training as Robin Hood inspired her very much. When not teaching Neda loves spending time with her family.
Jade Guzman – Teacher Montessori Program
Jade comes from a family of teachers and hopes to one day become a teacher as well. She has always loved working with children and her experience volunteering at a children's basketball camp enabled that wonderful opportunity of her knowing she would like to continue on the path of educating your children. Robin Hood has offered her a place away from home, while growing and nurturing her passion for teaching. On her days off Jade likes to do puzzles with her family, paint for fun, work on her garden and enjoy local parks and beaches.
Jade comes from a family of teachers and hopes to one day become a teacher as well. She has always loved working with children and her experience volunteering at a children's basketball camp enabled that wonderful opportunity of her knowing she would like to continue on the path of educating your children. Robin Hood has offered her a place away from home, while growing and nurturing her passion for teaching. On her days off Jade likes to do puzzles with her family, paint for fun, work on her garden and enjoy local parks and beaches.
Shirin Abbasian - Teacher Montessori Program
When I was seven years old, my teacher asked me what I would be in the future and without any hesitation I replied: A TEACHER!!!
So when I grew up, I decided to study "Preschool and School Education." I attended many workshops and seminars to improve my knowledge and keep myself updated. I have been teaching English for 14 years. Also, I have taught "Philosophy for Children" and art. I get on well with children, and I believe that as a teacher, I learn many things from them. Working for Robinhood Montessori School allows spending time with children in a lovely and lively atmosphere. Watching films is my favorite leisure time activity. Spending time with my family and friends gives me positive vibes, so I always stay in touch with them.
When I was seven years old, my teacher asked me what I would be in the future and without any hesitation I replied: A TEACHER!!!
So when I grew up, I decided to study "Preschool and School Education." I attended many workshops and seminars to improve my knowledge and keep myself updated. I have been teaching English for 14 years. Also, I have taught "Philosophy for Children" and art. I get on well with children, and I believe that as a teacher, I learn many things from them. Working for Robinhood Montessori School allows spending time with children in a lovely and lively atmosphere. Watching films is my favorite leisure time activity. Spending time with my family and friends gives me positive vibes, so I always stay in touch with them.
Yalda Davoudi - Assistant Teacher Montessori Program
Yalda is a dedicated educator and artist. She earned a Ph.D. in educational management. Her passion for teaching was inspired by her mother- who was also an educator. At age 18, she embarked on her teaching journey beginning with young children and later progressing to becoming a Professor at universities. With 18 years of experience, Yalda has seamlessly blended her love for art with her commitment to education. Yalda believes she can learn from everyone and everything- especially the children.
Yalda is a dedicated educator and artist. She earned a Ph.D. in educational management. Her passion for teaching was inspired by her mother- who was also an educator. At age 18, she embarked on her teaching journey beginning with young children and later progressing to becoming a Professor at universities. With 18 years of experience, Yalda has seamlessly blended her love for art with her commitment to education. Yalda believes she can learn from everyone and everything- especially the children.
Shahin Abtin – Teacher Infant/Toddler Program
Ms. Abtin was born and raised in Iran. After completing her secondary studies, she went to London to pursue her hobby of ceramic arts. She returned home and met her future husband. They came to California about 40 years ago and started a family. Ms. Abtin loves to spend time with her grandson whenever she can. Ms. Abtin obtained a certificate as a registered dental assistant as well as a certificate in child development. Ms. Abtin has extensive experience caring for infants and preschool children which she considers a joy. She loves her new position with Robin Hood Montessori School because she believes in the school’s methods and mission.
Ms. Abtin was born and raised in Iran. After completing her secondary studies, she went to London to pursue her hobby of ceramic arts. She returned home and met her future husband. They came to California about 40 years ago and started a family. Ms. Abtin loves to spend time with her grandson whenever she can. Ms. Abtin obtained a certificate as a registered dental assistant as well as a certificate in child development. Ms. Abtin has extensive experience caring for infants and preschool children which she considers a joy. She loves her new position with Robin Hood Montessori School because she believes in the school’s methods and mission.
Diana Medina – Teacher Infant/Toddler Program
Since I can remember I have always loved and cared for children. Back in high school, during the summer I would volunteer in the summer program and tutor children with Math and English. I attended Orange Coast College and California State University of Fullerton to study Psychology. For the last five years I have provided heartfelt care and assistance to the elderly residents. Having the opportunity to work with children has been my dream and it makes me happy to be part of the Robin Hood Montessori School. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and daughter at Disneyland. As well as exploring museums and national parks.
Since I can remember I have always loved and cared for children. Back in high school, during the summer I would volunteer in the summer program and tutor children with Math and English. I attended Orange Coast College and California State University of Fullerton to study Psychology. For the last five years I have provided heartfelt care and assistance to the elderly residents. Having the opportunity to work with children has been my dream and it makes me happy to be part of the Robin Hood Montessori School. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and daughter at Disneyland. As well as exploring museums and national parks.
Precious Kilburg – Assistant Teacher Infant/Toddler Program
Mrs. Precious has always had a passion for teaching. She feels she has a purpose in life to make a difference and that difference is to help children strive. “Seeing them grow right in front of your eyes is the biggest reward as a teacher.” She states. She has over 5 plus years working in the teaching field. She was a homeschool teacher that worked with different charter schools. In all different age groups. “Robinhood has given me the opportunity to work with a new age group—infants and toddlers and I am so honored to be able to see the new development in life and how I can help them succeed in the world we live in." - Mrs. Precious
In her free time she loves to work on her car and take her car to car shows. She also loves spending her quality time with her two sun conures that she loves so dearly.
Mrs. Precious has always had a passion for teaching. She feels she has a purpose in life to make a difference and that difference is to help children strive. “Seeing them grow right in front of your eyes is the biggest reward as a teacher.” She states. She has over 5 plus years working in the teaching field. She was a homeschool teacher that worked with different charter schools. In all different age groups. “Robinhood has given me the opportunity to work with a new age group—infants and toddlers and I am so honored to be able to see the new development in life and how I can help them succeed in the world we live in." - Mrs. Precious
In her free time she loves to work on her car and take her car to car shows. She also loves spending her quality time with her two sun conures that she loves so dearly.
Coralynn Figueroa – Assistant Teacher Infant/Toddler Program
As a kid myself, I’ve always migrated towards children. Becoming a teacher was genuinely natural. I thrive in knowing that I am responsible for guiding & molding young minds. When I went to college at SUNY Oswego, that’s when I officially committed to my journey in education. I was learning about teaching from being involved in different schools, different age ranges & different backgrounds. It wasn’t until 3 years ago that I realized my heart wanted to stay with younger kids, toddlers & babies. Now, I’m continuing my educational development here in California after freshly moving from New York in order to see what new adventure awaits me on my teaching path. On my free time, I love to dive into meditation, exploring nature, reading, watching comfort shows & spending time with people I love & who love me.
As a kid myself, I’ve always migrated towards children. Becoming a teacher was genuinely natural. I thrive in knowing that I am responsible for guiding & molding young minds. When I went to college at SUNY Oswego, that’s when I officially committed to my journey in education. I was learning about teaching from being involved in different schools, different age ranges & different backgrounds. It wasn’t until 3 years ago that I realized my heart wanted to stay with younger kids, toddlers & babies. Now, I’m continuing my educational development here in California after freshly moving from New York in order to see what new adventure awaits me on my teaching path. On my free time, I love to dive into meditation, exploring nature, reading, watching comfort shows & spending time with people I love & who love me.
Ramona Klymko - Mentor - Montessori Program and Infant/Toddler Program
Ramona's first contact with the Montessori Method goes back to the year 2000, when she was offered to teach languages in a Montessori School, here in the United States. By that time she had acquired her Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Languages (German and English) and had been teaching languages in Europe since 1987. Being in her first Montessori School, she suddenly discovered a new way of knowing, loving and teaching a child. She began to understand the importance of working more fully with the child's urge to learn and the importance of preparing the child, at this very young age, not for school but for life. Ramona successfully mastered the Montessori Diploma in February, 2002 and completed the approved Course of Study and Practical Training of the International Association of Progressive Montessori. Her inner discipline and excellent organizational skills made room for more. Ramona went back to College and successfully completed the Infant and Toddler Program at UCI Montessori. She also completed the Program for the Administration of Schools for Young Children - Personnel, at Irvine Valley College. Ramona's strong belief in the Montessori Philosophy and Education together with her already acquired pedagogical experience and excellent educational background, made it possible to start her own Montessori Program alongside her husband, under the name of "Robin Hood Montessori School", thus combining the passion for the Montessori Method and Archery. Ramona has recently been selected by the International Association of Progressive Montessori to train and become a Montessori Instructor for IAPM. Ramona is looking forward to becoming an instructor and continuing the legacy of IAPM.
Ramona's first contact with the Montessori Method goes back to the year 2000, when she was offered to teach languages in a Montessori School, here in the United States. By that time she had acquired her Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Languages (German and English) and had been teaching languages in Europe since 1987. Being in her first Montessori School, she suddenly discovered a new way of knowing, loving and teaching a child. She began to understand the importance of working more fully with the child's urge to learn and the importance of preparing the child, at this very young age, not for school but for life. Ramona successfully mastered the Montessori Diploma in February, 2002 and completed the approved Course of Study and Practical Training of the International Association of Progressive Montessori. Her inner discipline and excellent organizational skills made room for more. Ramona went back to College and successfully completed the Infant and Toddler Program at UCI Montessori. She also completed the Program for the Administration of Schools for Young Children - Personnel, at Irvine Valley College. Ramona's strong belief in the Montessori Philosophy and Education together with her already acquired pedagogical experience and excellent educational background, made it possible to start her own Montessori Program alongside her husband, under the name of "Robin Hood Montessori School", thus combining the passion for the Montessori Method and Archery. Ramona has recently been selected by the International Association of Progressive Montessori to train and become a Montessori Instructor for IAPM. Ramona is looking forward to becoming an instructor and continuing the legacy of IAPM.
Lillian Garrison – Art Teacher
Ms. Lillian Gleason Garrison is the daughter of well known artist, Duncan Gleason. She received her training at USC with BFA and MFA, working with prominent artists, Francis de Erderly, Keith Crown and Merril Gage. She has taught art classes for adults and children in Palos Verdes Estates, Laguna Beach, Irvine, Mission Viejo and El Toro; state design for UCI, Palos Verdes College and children productions in Irvine.
Ms. Lillian’s Montessori teaching experience has been head teacher at Montessori School in Laguna Beach and Program Director for Montessori Teacher Training Institute IAPM.
Ms. Lillian has had training in drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and various other crafts. She enjoys bringing her art and teaching experience to Montessori students.
Ms. Lillian Gleason Garrison is the daughter of well known artist, Duncan Gleason. She received her training at USC with BFA and MFA, working with prominent artists, Francis de Erderly, Keith Crown and Merril Gage. She has taught art classes for adults and children in Palos Verdes Estates, Laguna Beach, Irvine, Mission Viejo and El Toro; state design for UCI, Palos Verdes College and children productions in Irvine.
Ms. Lillian’s Montessori teaching experience has been head teacher at Montessori School in Laguna Beach and Program Director for Montessori Teacher Training Institute IAPM.
Ms. Lillian has had training in drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and various other crafts. She enjoys bringing her art and teaching experience to Montessori students.
Diana Castillo – Spanish Teacher
I was born in Bogotá, Colombia. Shortly after, moved to Maryland were I was introduced to English when only 6 months, at 4 went back to my homeland. At 17 as an exchange student returned to the U.S. to attend senior year at Hingham High School near Boston. After graduation I went on to receive a bachelor's degree in engineering and then a master's degree in marketing in Colombia. I have been back in the U.S. for the last 8 years. I live with my husband and daughters, and I am very proud to raise them to be fluent in English and Spanish. As a family we love to spent time together; beach, movies, walks, long and short trips are some of the activities we like to do. I have been tutoring children with English as their first and second languages for 4 years in math, reading, and language and arts, as well as teaching Spanish in after school programs in different preschools. Now with my own business couldn't be more excited and proud to share my culture, language, and be part of the learning experience of many children.
I was born in Bogotá, Colombia. Shortly after, moved to Maryland were I was introduced to English when only 6 months, at 4 went back to my homeland. At 17 as an exchange student returned to the U.S. to attend senior year at Hingham High School near Boston. After graduation I went on to receive a bachelor's degree in engineering and then a master's degree in marketing in Colombia. I have been back in the U.S. for the last 8 years. I live with my husband and daughters, and I am very proud to raise them to be fluent in English and Spanish. As a family we love to spent time together; beach, movies, walks, long and short trips are some of the activities we like to do. I have been tutoring children with English as their first and second languages for 4 years in math, reading, and language and arts, as well as teaching Spanish in after school programs in different preschools. Now with my own business couldn't be more excited and proud to share my culture, language, and be part of the learning experience of many children.