Meadow Oaks Montessori

Our Staff

“The teacher, in this first period, before concentration has shown itself, must be like the flame which heartens all by its warmth, enlivens and invites. ”

–Maria Montessori

Lead Guide, Primary

“I care for every child as my own, creating space for their growth. Meadow Oaks provides the best environment to focus on holistic development of every child.”

ms. shen

Ms. Shen approaches her role as Lead Guide for our Primary students with passion, purpose, and appreciation for the life-long benefits that children gain from completing the full cycle of a Primary Montessori education. She has served as Lead Guide for over 13 years, finding fulfillment guiding children to follow their curiosity and watching their growth and confidence blossom. Through her formal education and training, Ms. Shen values the science behind the Montessori teaching methods that allow children to grasp complex mathematical and literacy concepts at an early age and establish a strong learning foundation that will serve them as they advance in school, work and life. While she is passionate about academic wins, she is equally focused on demonstrating grace and courtesy and keeping childhood fun. She brings joy, kindness and acceptance for each child as an individual, creating space for their growth across all areas in a loving, nurturing, and harmonious classroom community.

Ms. Shen has a Bachelors of Computer Science and Application, Avinashilingam Deemed University, Tamil Nadu, India. She is AMI certified, having earned the Montessori Primary (3-6) Certificate from IMTC.

Lead Guide, Primary

“I understand that I am the vital link between the children and their environment. I deeply value each child’s individuality and strive to create a space where they feel safe, curious, and capable, so that learning becomes a joyful and meaningful experience.”

ms. prachi

Ms. Prachi has great respect for her students and recognizes the importance of her role as their lead guide. Ms. Prachi came to appreciate the magical yet scientific process of supporting children’s growth and development through Maria Montessori’s philosophy and pedagogy when she first witnessed students in her own daughter’s classroom environment. As a fellow lover of mathematics, she was fascinated to observe young children working with concrete materials, like the Montessori golden beads, to grasp complex mathematical concepts in a meaningful way.
Drawing on her formal education, 12 years of classroom experience, and her own experiences as parent, Ms. Prachi brings her talents in early childhood education to Meadow Oaks Montessori as Lead Guide in the Primary program. Here, Ms. Prachi guides early learners through hands-on exploration where they discover their own capabilities, gain confidence, build a strong sense of independence. Beyond academic foundations, Ms. Prachi helps impart values of grace and courtesy to her students. Through modeling and practice, children learn empathy and self-regulation, and how to show respect to themselves, others, and the environment—skills that will serve them in their relationships, community, and future workplaces.

Ms. Prachi obtained her Bachelor of Commerce at University of Pune, India, and holds both a Montessori Teacher Training Certificate from Collin County and an American Montessori Society Early Childhood (3-6) Credential.

Lead Guide, Primary

 “When a child discovers the solution on their own, you can see their confidence grow instantly. These moments remind me why the Montessori approach of respecting the child’s pace and independence is so powerful.”  

ms. deepa

In her 23 years as a Montessori educator, Ms. Deepa has developed a variety of student-centered and inclusive teaching strategies that support children in their early learning journey and shape their future in a meaningful way. Ms. Deepa focuses on helping children become actively engaged in the learning process through discussion and hands-on activities. Children in her Primary classroom are respected, free to ask questions and encouraged to continue trying as they make mistakes. She delivers a prepared, peaceful environment where children develop independence, confidence, and respect for themselves, others, and the world. On their way to mastery, she is thoughtful to observe a child without interfering, giving them space to self-correct.

Ms. Deepa has a Bachelor of Arts and has earned the American Montessori Society credential for Early Childhood and the Montessori Teacher Training Certificate from Collin County Community College. 

Assistant Guide, Primary

“I truly appreciate each child and try to support their emotional and individual needs as they develop a love of learning. I love to see a child become more independent and confident.” 

ms. farzah

As as an assistant guide in our Primary program, Ms. Farzah sees children for the capable young people that they are. With 7 years of early childhood teaching experience and through her own experience as a mother, Ms. Farzah recognizes the profound impact a child’s environment has on their development. Children enjoy her gentle leadership, feeling calm and emotionally supported in her care. You’ll hear her encouraging children in the Primary program to continue their work towards mastery, as she reassures them to take their time and try their best.

Ms. Farzah has an Associates of Applied Science in Handicrafts. 

Assistant Guide, Primary

“I became an educator because I had teachers who truly believed in me, and I want to be that kind of influence for others.”

ms. Arwa

Ms. Arwa has 3 years of classroom experience at Meadow Oaks Montessori where she serves as Assistant Guide in our Primary program. Her work fosters an environment that is welcoming, engaging, and encouraging for all students. Her calm presence and keen observation skills mean she knows just when to step in to reassure a child that mistakes are part of learning and growth, a mantra that allows them to practice emotional regulation and strengthens their intrinsic motivation to learn.

Ms. Arwa has a college education and has obtained a Certificate of Completion for 24-hour training in Montessori early childhood education.

Lead Guide, Toddlers

“I chose teaching because it perfectly connects my educational background with my personal experience as a mother of two and I genuinely enjoy working with children. I want parents to know that their child is safe, respected, and valued in my class.”

ms. Mandy

Ms. Mandy brings her passion for early childhood development to Meadow Oaks Montessori as Lead Guide for Toddlers. As a veteran teacher with over 20 years of experience, she joined Meadow Oaks Montessori in 2020 and continues to instill confidence in her students in a nurturing environment where they feel safe, happy, and capable. Her warmth and positivity radiate outward, helping children develop an inner voice that says “I can do it. I try my best. I am learning. I am kind. I am brave.” Ms. Mandy is gifted at supporting each child on their individual learning journey where mistakes are celebrated as part of the learning process. Focusing on connection over correction and progress over perfection, toddlers in her care develop confidence through small but meaningful moments. Holding herself to high standards, she models discipline and order as she creates a safe and stimulating environment for children to learn and grow through play. She counts herself lucky to be able to bring her full authentic self to work where she can share her love of music, dancing, singing and creating beauty through meal preparation and craft activities with the children.

Ms. Mandy has a Bachelors of Science in Child Psychology and a Masters degree in Special Education & Child Psychology. She has also earned the American Montessori Society Credential for Infant and Toddler (0-3). 

Lead Guide, Toddlers

 “My favorite moments are when I turn my attention from one child to another, then return to see the first child working independently and proudly say “I did it!”. That moment reflects true independence and the power of self-directed learning”

ms. Martha

Volunteering with children in her church community ignited Ms. Martha’s passion for early childhood education, leading her to obtain her American Montessori Society credentials for infant and toddlers. With 3 years of classroom experience as Lead Guide, Ms. Martha brings joy, respect, and nurturing attention to Toddlers at Meadow Oaks Montessori. She values each child as a gift and supports them through their learning journey by first observing and honoring their independence. Her approach fosters their self-discipline and gives children the time to learn at their own pace. Her guiding principle to follow the child with care and intention creates a classroom community where children are free to explore, practice courtesy, and learn through play. Children benefit from Ms. Martha’s love of music, dancing, and her expressive warm nature that makes each day fun.

Ms. Martha has a Bachelor’s degree in Social Communication and Journalism, a diploma in Educational Communication, and she has earned the American Montessori Society Credential for Infant and Toddler (0-3).

Lead Guide, Waddlers

“I love to watch as children take initiative to become helpers. An example is when I see a young child recognize a need and then help me set up the table. It’s as if you can see the ‘Aha!’ moment in the child’s mind when they realize that they have the power to contribute.” 

ms. zina

With 16 years of classroom experience, Ms. Zina provides reassuring care for children as they grow from babies to toddlers. Her classroom is a space where children feel loved, safe, and have a peaceful environment to grow in their independence. She places an emphasis on hands-on learning, developing real-world skills as they discover their capacity to do things for themselves. Children are guided to practice teamwork, build on their communication skills and develop patience, trust, and responsibility even at this young age. From caring for plants, washing windows, slicing bananas or washing fruits, Ms. Zina keeps children engaged in practical life activities that build confidence.

Ms. Zina has an Associates of Science in Nursing (ASN) and is NCCT certified for patient care. She also earned a Certificate of Special Recognition as a Direct Care Worker. 

Lead Guide, Nido (infants)

“I am constantly learning about myself through my work with the children. It inspires me to see their confidence soar as they discover their own capabilities.” 

ms. maria

Ms. Maria has 8 years of experience in early childhood education and 3 years of experience as a Montessori certified lead guide. Ms. Maria has been nurturing babies and young children for most of her life. As the oldest of 6 siblings, she developed a natural tendency to care for others and be a loving presence to babies as they develop in their first years. As Lead Guide in our Nido room, Ms. Maria creates a peaceful and happy environment where infants can discover, play, and grow– physically, emotionally and socially. She shows respect to each child and their individual development timeline, allowing them freedom to explore while gently guiding them as they practice new skills. She acknowledges the reciprocity involved in the relationship as she works to form secure attachments with each child in her care.

Ms. Maria has earned the American Montessori Society Credential for Infant and Toddler (0 to 3). 

Assistant Guide, Toddlers

“I encourage children to try their best and to be kind. I care about each child and remind them that mistakes help us learn and grow.”

ms. Calli

Ms. Calli works as assistant guide in the Toddlers program, helping to create an environment where children are safe, supported and cared for with kindness and respect. Her organizational skills bring calm and order while her enthusiasm for the learning process reinforces the love-of-learning that children at Meadow Oaks Montessori develop here at school. She enjoys working with children as they build confidence and independence. 

– Susan Dendinger
Head of School

“In all my years of being involved in Montessori, my conviction that Montessori is by far the best option for educating children has only gotten stronger.”

Susan Dendinger

Exexutive Director,
Head of School

Ms. Sue has led Meadow Oaks Montessori as its Executive Director and Head of School since the school’s founding in 2020. She brings a passion for Montessori education and 28 years of applied practice in Montessori teaching and program leadership to the role. As Head of School, Ms. Sue guides the school in its application of traditional Montessori philosophy and pedagogy, mentoring teachers, directing curriculum, and overseeing programs that serve our students.

Susan experienced the beauty of a Montessori education as a parent first-hand, watching her 3 sons flourish as students in a Montessori program. Inspired by their success and her belief that a Montessori approach is what education should be, Ms. Sue has dedicated her career to bringing authentic Montessori education to children in North Texas.

Prior to her role at Meadow Oaks Montessori, Susan founded and ran Pebblecreek Montessori in Plano, Texas, and later Allen, Texas, for 17 years. She also served as interim head of school for start-ups, schools in financial trouble, legal trouble, and those seeking reputation salvation, where she made positive impacts on their program direction, adherence to Montessori values, and operational excellence.

Apart from Susan’s work at Meadow Oaks Montessori, she serves as a trainer and field consultant for The Shelton School Montessori training program focusing on leadership and school operations.

She authored Mastery of Montessori Leadership, a comprehensive training program that was previously used at Loyola University for students studying Montessori Administration, and founded Holistic Montessori Solutions, which offers consultation and training programs to Montessori schools and individuals interested in school ownership and faculty training.

Outside of school, Ms. Sue is an avid tennis player, attentive grandparent, and is appreciated by her family and friends for her ability to celebrate the joy in everyday moments.

Ms. Sue has a Bachelors of Science in Marketing and Communications from St. Joseph’s University. She has completed certifications in Montessori Leadership through the International Montessori Council and holds credentials as a certified Administrative Trainer and Montessori School Operations from the American Montessori Society.

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