Ms. Sierra
Founder
I love children and am proud of myself for having a childlike spirit. My own little boy has brought me tons of joy, hope and fulfillment. This love has led me to work in several Montessori schools and become a certified Montessori teacher after having worked extensively in the field of education in China, UK and US. As a matter of fact, my love for my son and for children in general has defined the purpose of my life - to become a child advocate, to embrace and implement the essence of Montessori philosophy in modern times, and to nurture future generations into independent and intelligent global citizens with intercultural competence, creativity and compassion.
In July 2011, I came to the US and studied Translation & Interpretation at Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. In August 2012, out of my passion for international education and intercultural communication, I switched to the inaugural International Education Management program, and graduated with honors in December 2013.
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There is nothing which a mother would not do for her son. After giving birth to my son, my life was forever changed (for good). I always remember Mr. Honey-Jones (the founding Principal of The British School of Beijing - an international school for children of expatriates) once said to me, "Sierra, whatever you do, you do the best!" The truth is, whatever I do, I give it my heart and soul. This is even so when I become a mother, I strive to become the best mother I could. Such desire has eventually led me to the establishment of Garden of Joy Montessori International School.
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I cherish the spirit of "Live to Learn", and continue to improve myself through professional and personal development. I am a member of the American Montessori Society (AMS), Bay Area Montessori Association (BAMA), and Bay Area Childcare Network Group. As such, my inspiration is
constantly renewed throughout ongoing Montessori training, Early Childhood Education workshops, child development classes, conferences, and frequent group network meetings.
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In my spare time, I like to spend time with my family. I practice yoga (I am a certified yoga instructor in China), and I like jogging, hiking, salsa dance, and watching movies. I am also a dedicated Toastmaster, having obtained Advanced Communicator Gold and Competent Leader certificates.
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On-going training @ AMS Instructor Academy
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A certified Early Childhood Montessori Teacher
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Ongoing training with AMS, BAMA, and First 5's Quality Matters Program
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MA in International Education Management
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One year's training in Translation & Interpretation (English/Chinese)
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BA in English at Beijing Language & Culture University
My Educational Credentials
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Chinese Teacher for preschoolers at Word of Grace Chinese School
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Teacher at several Montessori preschools
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Inaugural San Francisco Summer Program Coordinator for Boston University
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Independent Translator for Elfenworks Productions LLC., translated the book "Intelligence & Compassion in Action: The Seven Pillars for Social Entrepreneurs" written by founding CEO Dr. Lauren Speeth
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Head of School Services & Facilities and a founding member for The British School of Beijing
My Professional Background
Ms. Katherin Tan
Assistant Teacher
A mother of two boys, Ms. Katherine has a master’s degree in Mathematics from Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong Province, China. She truly enjoys being a mother as her sons bring her tremendous joy and happiness. This love leads her to a great deal of volunteering work at their schools over the years (3D Preschool, Kinderwood Children’s Center and Stratford Schools). She is an active member of Parent Committee at Stratford Schools, helping the schools to organize events on the class and school levels.
Being around children, watching them grow and learn, and being a part of their lives give Ms. Katherine a great sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. She is constantly inspired by their innocence, love, and sense of humor. Striving to be the best teacher she could possibly be, after having finished Myteachstone Teacher Training Program provided by First 5, Ms. Katherine has also obtained her Associate Teacher permit after a 2-year Apprenticeship Program. Currently she is on the California Teaching Pyramid training. In her spare time, she likes cooking, singing, dancing, painting, hiking and traveling, as well as spending time with her family and friends.
Ms. Jennifer Saraut
Assistant Teacher
“The main thing I love about working with children is watching them grow and being able to help them out with whatever they may need during the process. Providing guidance to support children in learning different things on a daily basis is something I am deeply passionate about. I am thrilled to join the amazing team led by Ms. Sierra at Garden of Joy Montessori International School and I am prepared to do my best to serve the children in our school."
Born in San Jose, California, Ms. Jennifer Saraut is bilingual in English and Spanish. She loves children and has been nannying for 9 years before joining Garden of Joy Montessori. Ms. Jennifer is very patient, responsible, caring and understanding. Her love for working with children started when she babysat for the first time at 16 years old. She aspires to become the best early childhood educator she could possibly be and has
started her journey to get her credentials. Like Ms. Katherine, she has been attending the California Teaching Pyramid training. In her spare time, she likes to draw and paint, spend time with her family, friends, two pet dogs and bunny, read, and watch movies.
Ms. Lucia Saraut
Assistant Teacher
“My love for children is incredible. I am passionate about anything that has to do with young children! I remember when I was a child, I’d always say to everybody that I wanted to be a preschool teacher. As such, whenever my mom babysat our neighbors’ children, I would be a happy voluntary helper. When I was offered the opportunity to join the wonderful team here at Garden of Joy Montessori, I felt my childhood dream came true. I am more than ready to guide and support the lovely children in our beautiful and nurturing garden, treating them as if they were my own. I am thrilled to witness and celebrate every milestone they will accomplish along their journey of growth.”
Born in San Jose, California, Ms. Lucia Saraut is fluent in English and Spanish. In her spare time, she loves to do art and crafts, decorate, cook, maintain a clean and tidy environment, spend time with her loved ones and enjoy every minute of life.
Per our parents' request, we are sharing some of our staff members's favorites. We do not ask for anything, because we are blessed enough to have the continued truest and support from all our beloved families!
Ms. Sierra
Drink: Boba tea and latte with low sugar
Food: Nut Mix, Beef Jerky, dark chocolate
Stores: Costco, Amazon​, Home Depot
Gift Ideas: Flowers, accessories such as earrings, scarves, hair band
Ms. Jennifer
Drink: Boba & iced vanilla latte
Food: Chickfila, beignets
Stores: Bath & Body Works, T J Maxx, Marshalls, Target
Gift Ideas: Lotions, candels, mugs, accessories such as bracelets & necklaces
Ms. Katherine
Drink: Boba tea and latte with low sugar
Food: Cheesecake, donuts, Jollibee/Popeyes fried chicken
Stores: Costco, Trade Joe's, Amazon
Gift Ideas: Lotions, accessories such as earrings & home decor​
Ms. Lucia
Drink: Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino, 7 up, Dr. Pepper
Food: Pizza, hot wings
Stores: Walmart & Marshalls
Gift Ideas: Lotions, candels, mugs, accessories such as bracelets & necklaces​