Emily Gallagher

Emily completed her Early Childhood credential at WSMS-TEP in 2021. She currently works in at Abintra Montessori School in Nashville, TN.

How did you discover Montessori, and what inspired you to pursue it?
I discovered Montessori purely by chance! I saw a job opening for a classroom assistant and took it, not knowing anything about Montessori. I very quickly fell in love with everything about its philosophy, teaching, and the beauty of it.

What’s one of your favorite memories from WSMS-TEP training?
My training was during the COVID-19 pandemic–a very unique cohort that never actually got to meet in person. I think those daily and weekly Zooms were so special to connect with others, even though we couldn’t be with each other physically, it was such a unique and special group.

What part of the Montessori classroom or curriculum excites you the most, and why?
I enjoy so many different aspects, but math is one that I absolutely love! I was HORRIBLE at math as a kid, and once I learned the Montessori way of doing math, it all clicked. It truly opened a door for me to something I’d never think twice about otherwise. The simplicity of it draws you in, and I love how tangible it is.

How do you incorporate equity, inclusion, or social justice into your Montessori work?
We do a lot of peace studies in our classroom, a lot of role-play of certain situations, and a lot of incorporating different families’ cultures or customs. As well as opening doors for children to learn more about different cultures by changing our continent study monthly and inviting people from the community to come in and share their lives and experiences.

Who was an important mentor during your training, and how did they impact your transformation as an educator?
My lead teacher at the time and the administration at my previous school encouraged me to apply to WSMS-TEP and supported me through everything. Some of my biggest cheerleaders were at the school I first started teaching at in Hoboken!

What book, podcast, or resource is inspiring you right now?
Mind in the Making: The Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs by Ellen Galinsky