Our Dedicated Montessori Team

Meet Our Staff

Learn about the passionate team behind Silver Maple Montessori.

Our Vision

Leadership and Hiring Approach

At Silver Maple Montessori, our hiring process is guided by a commitment to Montessori principles and a dedication to nurturing each child’s unique path. We seek educators who view teaching as a vocation, not merely a job, and who understand the importance of patience, empathy, and curiosity in fostering a child’s growth. Our leadership team carefully selects teachers who align with our values, ensuring our classrooms are led by passionate and knowledgeable professionals.
Our approach is centered on supporting and training teachers to succeed in the Montessori environment. This includes ongoing professional development, a collaborative work culture, and providing resources that empower our staff to engage with each child meaningfully. We believe in creating an atmosphere that nurtures not only our students but also our dedicated team members.

Our Educators

Meet Our Montessori Teachers

Jillian Monte

Mrs. Monte is a devoted Montessori teacher who brings her enthusiasm for nature and animals into the classroom. After enrolling her first child in a Montessori program, she witnessed firsthand the method’s transformative effect on fostering independence, curiosity, and a love of learning. Inspired by this experience, she became a Montessori educator herself to share the method’s benefits with other children, creating an environment where students can thrive emotionally and academically.

In addition to her teaching, Mrs. Monte loves storytelling, often sharing her favorite Robert Munsch books with her students, sparking creativity and joy. Outside of work, she’s a mom of three, who spends her free time baking delicious treats, and enjoying a coffee or Diet Coke. Her nurturing approach and dedication to Montessori principles make her a cherished member of our community, admired by both students and parents alike.

Lavnaya Elangovan

Known by her students as Ms. Elan, Lavnaya brings a unique blend of professional experience and parental insight to Silver Maple Montessori. Originally a lawyer, she discovered her passion for Montessori education through her own children, who thrived within the method’s nurturing structure. This led her to pursue formal Montessori training, allowing her to combine her legal skills in critical thinking with her passion for fostering young minds.

Ms. Elan’s approach is characterized by warmth and an attentive understanding of each child’s needs. Her background in early childhood Montessori education has enriched her role, and she’s now a trusted and valued member of our school. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, often visiting local parks, bringing a sense of community and care that resonates with her students and their families.

Tehseen Waheed

Ms. Waheed, a mother of four, brings both creativity and cultural depth to her role as a Montessori Casa teacher. With a background in Design and a love for literature, she creates an engaging classroom environment where students feel inspired to explore and express themselves. Her passion for storytelling, particularly through Dr. Seuss and Eric Carle books, helps to instill a love of reading in her students.

Originally from Pakistan, Ms. Waheed’s personal Montessori journey began as a child, and she rediscovered the approach when her youngest started school. She feels privileged to continue sharing Montessori’s values with a new generation. Outside the classroom, Ms. Waheed enjoys puzzle-making and spending time with her family, bringing creativity and dedication to all aspects of her life, making her a treasured part of the school.

Maha Meerza

Maha’s Montessori journey began when she was just three years old, sparking a lifelong connection to the method’s principles. Born in Pakistan and having lived in several countries, Maha brings a global perspective to her role at Silver Maple Montessori. With a Psychology degree from the University of British Columbia, she is deeply committed to understanding and supporting the developmental needs of each child.

Currently in the final stages of her Infant-Toddler Montessori Guide Certification, Maha’s approach is characterized by patience and a commitment to fostering each child’s unique growth path. Outside of her role as a Montessori teacher, she enjoys trying new recipes, going for scenic drives, and spending quality time with her sister. Her dedication and thoughtful approach have made her a respected member of our toddler community.

Hifzah Sheikh

Hifzah holds a bachelor’s degree in Education and History and brings over eight years of experience as a teaching assistant, with a focus on toddler education. She chose to pursue a career in Montessori to support children’s cognitive and social development. Since joining Silver Maple Montessori, she has become known for her positive, steady presence and her ability to encourage independence and confidence in her students.

With a passion for early literacy, creativity, and physical development, Hifzah supports each child in discovering their potential. Her role in the toddler community is invaluable, and she contributes to the growth and well-being of the children in her care. Outside of work, she enjoys nature walks, traveling, and spending time with friends, bringing a balance of calm and enthusiasm to her classroom.

“The Instructions of the teacher consist then merely in a hint, a touch enough to give a start to the child. The rest develops by itself.”

— Maria Montessori

Our Dedicated Support Team

Meet Maleeha

Maleeha Imran-Khan plays an integral role in our school’s daily operations, supporting both staff and families with her friendly, approachable nature. Her work ensures that the school runs smoothly, allowing teachers and students to focus on learning and exploration within a well-organized, supportive environment.

With a background in Montessori administration, Maleeha understands the importance of fostering a strong school community and maintaining clear communication. Her dedication to creating a positive school experience helps every family feel welcome, and her attention to detail ensures a high standard of care.

Visit Our Montessori School

Book a Tour

Meet our passionate team and explore our Montessori environment.