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.

Ramona Klymko - Director 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.

Kianna Zaragoza – Teaching / Assistant Director Montessori Program and Infant/Toddler Program

Kianna knew she wanted to become a teacher since she was a littler 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.

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.

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.

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.

Shirin Abbasian - Assistant Teacher Infant/Toddler 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.

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.

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.

Robin Hood Montessori School