Directress

Justina Staley

Guiding Light Montessori is directed by Justina Staley, who is certified by the American Montessori Society for Early Childhood education (ages 2.5 – 6 years). She has over 20 years of teaching experience, working with children in a traditional Montessori environment. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s College of Moraga in Liberal and Civic Studies with an emphasis in Montessori Philosophy.

​Teaching children has always been near and dear to Justina's heart, and she always knew children would be part of her everyday life. With three of her own, she stays very busy balancing their school and extracurricular activities while sharing her passion to aid other children's curiosity of learning. She is committed to giving any child who steps foot into Guiding Light a nurturing, prepared Montessori environment that will breed independence, confidence, and a curiosity of learning.

In addition to teaching, she has raised three lovely children who ages ranging from junior high to college. 
Kai Javier
​Kai graduated with an AB Interdisciplinary Studies (minor in Communication and Psychology) degree from the Ateneo de Manila University in the Philippines. She pursued a career in Operations Management in AyalaLand Malls, Inc. and took the role of Administration and Logistics Manager for FIBA World Cup 2023 which was held in the Philippines.

Coming from a family of special educators, she is currently completing her AMS/MACTE certificates which includes her internship in GLM. Along with her fellow Montessori Guides, Kai is devoted in fostering a prepared environment using the Montessori Method where children can naturally develop their independence, learn at their own pace, and explore self-directed learning.

Staff

Juliann Park

 Montessori Guide

Juliann a fixture now on our Team as a Montessori Guide, brings decades of experience to the classroom. Her experience undoubtedly lends itself to the growth of the program.

​Juliann also brings her degree from Cal-State East Bay (2006) and concurrent education classes to the table. Her naturally gentle demeanor is welcomed by our students and teammates, easily helping along an ideal learning environment. ​​
Yam Barcelona

With over a decade of experience in strategic management, including roles as a Business Manager in the automotive industry and Regional Sales Manager in the animal health, automotive, and pharmaceutical sectors, I bring a wealth of leadership, communication, and organizational skills to the field of early childhood education. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from Manila Central University in Caloocan, Philippines, which has equipped me with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.


My career has been driven by a passion for mentorship and personal development, demonstrated through training programs I led for new team members and community health education initiatives focused on family and child well-being. These experiences inspired my transition into early childhood education, where I can combine my professional discipline with my deep commitment to nurturing young minds.


As an aspiring Early Childhood Assistant Teacher, I am dedicated to fostering a supportive, imaginative, and respectful learning environment aligned with Montessori principles. I believe in empowering children to explore, learn independently, and develop confidence and curiosity that will serve them for life.

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