Educating since 1971

We pride ourselves in our dedication to excellence and nothing exemplifies this more than our teaching staff.

Our teachers are leaders in The American Montessori Society and have served as AMS president, chair of the AMS Teacher Education Committee, seminar presenters on the AMS board, and chairpersons of curriculum development at AMS conferences.

From Tulane University in New Orleans, to the College of St. Catherine in Minneapolis, to Houston Independent School District, to the countries of Saudi Arabia, Czech Republic, and China, you will find our staff members leading Montessori courses, seminars, and AMS workshops across the world.

Board of Directors

HMC Announces Appointment of New Board President

Houston, Texas — Houston Montessori Center (HMC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Tara Cavaliere as the new President of the HMC Board of Directors, effective January 12, 2026. Ms. Cavaliere brings more than 30 years of experience in education, including over 27 years in Montessori. She is a dedicated supporter of HMC’s mission and has long been committed to advocating for children and adolescents, as well as for a more just and peaceful world. In addition to her professional leadership, Cavaliere has served on several boards contributing her expertise in strategic planning and organizational leadership.

“As Board President, Tara Cavaliere will work closely with the Board to advance the organization’s strategic priorities, strengthen governance, and support continued growth and impact across the communities served. In her role as Head of School at First Steps Montessori School, Tara brings a deep and contagious enthusiasm for Montessori education, grounded in effective leadership and warmth,” said Ann Sutton, PhD, HMC Executive Director.

Cavaliere added, “I am honored to serve as Board President for HMC and look forward to working alongside our Board and supporters to further our shared mission.”

HMC also extends its heartfelt gratitude to Marge Ellison for her leadership and service, which she brought with characteristic style throughout her decades-long tenure as an HMC Board Member and Board President.

• President – Tara Cavaliere (First Steps Montessori)

• Secretary – Carolyn Edgar (Riverbend Montessori)

• Treasurer –  Sherry Herron (School of the Woods)

• Executive Director & Administrator – Ann Sutton

• Suzanne Gusemano (First Steps Montessori)

• Nahla Nasser (St. Stephens Episcopal Montessori)

• Sue Thornton (Lone Star College – Retired)

Our Program Directors:

Throughout the year, our program directors guide and serve their adult learners and instructors. Directors determine the course structure, facilitate program offerings, collaborate with others, and review the curriculum and materials for their level course. They each have years of experience at their program level with children/adolescents and in adult education.

• Lynne Aiken – Infant and Toddlers (contact Lynne)

• Bridget Tomlinson – Early Childhood (contact Bridget)

• Paula Katz – Elementary (contact Paula)

• Ann Sutton – Secondary (contact Ann)

• Beth Bonnette – Administrators (contact Beth)

American Montessori Society Living Legacies:

The American Montessori Society Living Legacy Award is an annual tribute to a beloved and highly respected Montessori educator whose dedication and leadership has made a lasting impact on the AMS community.

• Dr. Betsy Coe (2008)

• Judi Bauerlein  (2012)

• Sonnie McFarland  (2011)